Travel
The ultimate Isle of Skye road trip
A journey through Scotland’s raw, wild and weather-beaten landscapes. Best enjoyed slowly.
By Matt Cheok
There’s a certain kind of magic in being able to pull over to the side of the road whenever something catches your eye and take a proper moment to soak it all in. That’s what made driving to Skye so appealing. My partner and I had set aside a week to explore the region, saved a handful of pins on Google Maps, and sketched out a general direction, leaving room to take the longer way round if it looked more scenic. We did have a few ideas about what we wanted from our road trip. Some proper hikes, a lot of good food and the odd whisky were definitely high on our hit list (since I’m a sucker for one on the rocks!).
If you’re a whisky fan as well, here's 10 of the best distilleries closer to home.
Around Skye (and the Scottish Highlands in general), one moment you’re bathing in the glorious sun, thinking it’s almost warm, and then the wind picks up and the rain comes in sideways. The way the landscape shifts with each change in light or weather makes each part of the drive feel new. Here, being adaptable to the conditions is key, even if it means packing for every season in a single day.
So, if you’re looking for some travel inspiration and even some roadside encounters with Highland cattle, then this one’s for you!
Experience landscapes that don’t feel real
One of the more accessible yet rewarding walks is the trail to Storr. The climb is manageable for all ages and abilities, and the basalt formations rise sharply, drawing your eyes to the sky. From the summit, the views stretch across a landscape shaped over millions of years, and whilst it’s a popular path with tourists, the beauty of the place remains, no matter how many others are on the trail.
Another must-see is the Quiraing, part of the Trotternish Ridge. Its strange, rolling shapes and steep cliffs are a photographer’s dream and worthy of a stopover. The walk here is a little longer, but it’s still manageable and rewards you with some of the most epic views on the island.
While en route to Skye, we also recommend the Ben Nevis region for its fantastic selection of shorter walks.
Don’t miss Neist Point Lighthouse
Whether you're out for a windswept walk or stopping to enjoy a picnic, Neist Point Lighthouse is an unforgettable experience. The surrounding sea cliffs resemble in many ways the iconic Cliffs of Moher in Ireland.
Stop by the cosy town of portree
Portree is a cute township, dotted with colourful houses which line the harbour. We spent an afternoon wandering through the small shops and feasting on some tasty treats. If you’re hungry, do yourself a favour and head to The Chippy by the waterfront. Here you’ll find fresh fish, crispy batter and all the usual sides. They only take cash, so come prepared. Better yet, grab your food and sit by the water and watch the boats go about their day.
If you’re keen for a wildlife excursion, during the season, it’s possible to join in on a daily boat trip leaving from the harbour. Some trips present the opportunity to spot sea eagles, seals, dolphins and even puffins during late spring and early summer when they nest on nearby islands.
Wildlife lovers should check out these 8 Aussie wildlife volunteer experiences too.
Whisky, pub meals and a place to crash
Skye’s incredible landscapes certainly steal the show, but a visit to Talisker Distillery is the perfect way to round out your experience. They’ve been producing whisky since 1830. Having enjoyed too many glasses of Talisker since my university days, being here felt like a special moment. While at the site, you’ve got the option to join a guided tour, and even grab a bottle or two as a keepsake!
Right by Talisker Distillery, The Old Inn is a reliable spot for a pub meal. While it’s nothing fancy, there’s a range of hearty food served in a warm and friendly atmosphere.
Why Skye works so well for road trippers
Skye is incredibly vehicle-friendly. The infrastructure is there for you to comfortably spend several days exploring at your own pace. You’ll find proper rest stops, good quality pies and roadside meals that put old school servo snacks to shame. At some campgrounds, there’s even barista coffee, wine and cheese to purchase too.
Guide to getting round
Hiring a campervan or motorhome is, in our view, the best way to explore Skye. If you prefer, a car works just as well, especially if you’re happy to stay in bunkhouses or nearby towns.
To avoid feeling rushed, we recommend spending at least five days exploring the island, which will help ease the time pressure of returning any hire vehicle, especially if driving from major cities like Edinburgh or Glasgow.
Best time to visit
The best time to visit is either side of summer, late spring or early autumn. Try to avoid the peak summer months when the narrow single-lane roads can get congested.
Be prepared for the weather that has a mind of its own. Even on a bright, sunny morning, it can shift quickly, so pack sturdy hiking shoes and reliable waterproof clothing.
Feature image: Matt Cheok
Tell us in the comments below: Have you ever been to the Isle of Skye? Would you like to?
Keep exploring: