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Isle of skye

Enchanting escape to Skye’s wonders

Isle of Skye road trip

Please keep in mind this is only a guide and not time based, you can adjust this as you see fit but just keep yourself safe and not in any danger, we want you to have fun.

Flexibility

Flexibility

Adjust hike durations and stops based on weather and your interests

Campsites

Campsites

Pre-book campsites during the summer months to secure your spot

Travel Tips

Travel Tips

Always carry layers, as Scotland’s weather is unpredictable

Morning

  • Depart Edinburgh early and head north via the Queensferry Crossing.
  • Stop at The Hermitage near Dunkeld for a short woodland walk featuring waterfalls.
  • Continue through Pitlochry for a coffee or snack break.

Lunch

  • The Highland Soap Company Café, Fort William: Enjoy fresh sandwiches and soups whilebrowsing their handcrafted products.

Morning

  • Depart Fort William and follow the Road to the Isles (A830) west towards Glenfinnan.
  • Stop at the Glenfinnan Viaduct viewpoint; a short walk from the car park gives you the classic view, especially if a train passes.
  • Visit the Glenfinnan Monument at the head of Loch Shiel, a dramatic spot marking the start of the 1745 Jacobite Rising.

Lunch

  • Head into Dornie and stop for lunch at the Clachan Pub, just a short walk from Eilean Donan Castle. Good food, relaxed atmosphere, and a great view across the loch.

Afternoon

  • Explore Eilean Donan Castle, one of Scotland’s most photographed landmarks, sitting on a small island where three lochs meet. Allow an hour to look around inside.
  • Cross the Skye Bridge into Portree, the island’s main town. Pick up supplies, grab a coffee, and take a walk along the harbour.

Evening

  • Head to your campsite for the night. The Torvaig Campsite just outside Portree is a popular option; pre-book in summer.

Plan Ahead and Pack Smart

Castle
  • Pre-book campsites during peak season (June to August), especially around Portree and the Fairy Pools. Skye gets busy and walk-up pitches aren’t guaranteed.
  • Fill up with fuel before crossing the Skye Bridge. Petrol stations on the island are limited and prices are higher than the mainland.
  • Many roads on Skye are single-track with passing places. Take your time, pull in to let oncoming traffic through, and don’t reverse further than you need to.
  • Pack layers regardless of the forecast. Weather on Skye can change within the hour and even summer days can turn cold and wet quickly.
  • The Fairy Pools and Old Man of Storr car parks charge for parking. Bring change or a card.
  • Mobile signal is patchy across much of the island. Download offline maps before you leave.

What You Need to Know Before You Go

  • Always tell someone your planned route and expected arrival if you’re heading into remote areas or doing any hillwalking.
  • Stick to marked paths on the Cuillin and other mountain terrain. The Black Cuillin in particular is serious hill country and not suitable without experience and proper kit.
  • Check tide times before parking or camping near coastal areas; some spots can become inaccessible quickly.
  • Keep the van doors closed and food stored securely. Highland cattle and sheep wander freely and will investigate an open vehicle.
  • In an emergency call 999 and ask for Police or Mountain Rescue. Where signal fails, try high ground for a better connection.

Help Centre

You have questions? We have answers!

We have compiled all of our most frequently asked questions in one single place, so if you have a question, check out our help centre.

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