101 Fantastic Things To Do In Skye All Year Round

Whether you come for one sunny day or are here for a rainy week, there are so many things to do in Skye that you’ll always find yourself entertained and surprised. This lists covers landscape, attractions, wildlife, food & drink with plenty to suit all budgets. It is far too hard to pick a favourite, so in no particular order here are 101 wonderful things to do in Skye.

1) Splash about in the iconic Fairy Pools

This is usually no.1 on every visitor’s list. It will be crowded at the start, but keep climbing for more remote and beautiful pools. They’re iconic for a reason!

2) Climb Ben Tianavaig

Not far from Portree is this impressive peak. If you only have time for one major hike, this should be it as the 360 degree views from the top give a great sense of Skye and Raasay. It is also possible to watch for dolphins in the sea below. An awe-inspiring climb.

3) Wander the narrow streets of Portree

The capital of Skye, crammed with independent gift shops, cafes and pubs. Bustling throughout tourist season, it also has a very helpful information centre so a great place to start any visit to Skye.

4) Visit Armadale Castle and Gardens

Now at atmospheric ruin, Armadale Castle has seen a tremendous amount of Skye’s history from Flora Macdonald’s wedding to bloody battles. A visit to the ruins should also include the impressive museum, gardens and woods.

5) Admire the local highland sheep and cows

As soon as you leave the main towns and take one of the many single track roads out across the countryside you’ll meet Skye’s beloved livestock. Spring is a great time to see the new born lambs and highland cattle calves enjoying the lush green fields. Just make sure you respect their space, and you should have a wonderful calm encounter.

6) Journey to Loch Coruisk

If you loved the scene of Captain Shakespeare’s airship descending over a loch in Stardust, then you’ll recognise this place. Only accessible on foot via the notorious ‘Bad Step’ or a wonderful scenic boat ride from Elgol, the remoteness of Loch Coruisk make it a magical, hidden gem for a day of hiking and swimming.

7) Go Bird Watching

From majestic golden eagles to the comical puffins, Skye has a staggering variety of birds to enjoy in all seasons. Take a dedicated tour with a guide if you’re desperate to get the perfect photo, or simply sit by a cliff and wait. Your patience will be rewarded. The best spot is arguably Rubha Ardnish, a low-lying sandy peninsula home of plovers, purple sandpipers, lapwings and more.

8) Enjoy a Whisky Distillery Tour

Whisky lovers are spoilt for choice as the Skye and Raasay Whisky Trail includes the world famous Talisker alongside the more niche Torabhaig and Raasay Distilleries. Each distillery offers tours, tastings and special events. Furthermore, if none of you want to be designated driver, Skye Distillery Tour Bus can do the driving for you.

9) Join a Wildlife Watching Boat Tour

Departing from Elgol, Carbost or Portree, several boat companies offer trips to see the varied wildlife of Skye’s coastline. The best one we’ve done is the Puffin Run from Elgol. Dolphins followed our boat, we watched red deer grazing the hills of Rum and marvelled at the shags, kittiwakes and puffins nesting on Canna. A remarkable wild experience.

10) Try Axe Throwing at ACE Target Sports

For a unique activity on a group holiday, axe throwing is a great choice. The experts are on hand to guide you and you can enjoy a drink while getting in to the competitive spirit. In addition, you could try clay pigeon shooting, airgun or archery.

11) Hike the Quiraing

The Quiraing is a hauntingly beautiful landscape where you can see the dramatic landslides and rock formations formed by volcanoes in Skye’s past. Tiptoeing across gullies, scrambling up waterfalls and bracing against the wind on the cliff edges; this is not a walk for the faint hearted. But, what a view.

12) Be Spoilt on a Sunset Cruise

For a special occasion, champagne and oysters on a sunset cruise is the perfect way to celebrate. The excellent Seaflower vessels offer a range of options for different budgets and occasions. Every option gives you a taste of luxury and a unique experience.

13) Paddle (or more) at Glenbrittle Beach

Glenbrittle boasts some of the finest sand and most picturesque views on Skye. It’s a hugely popular campsite so there’s the convenience of a great coffee shop and facilities on site. Walks up from the beach give spectacular views across to the Small Isles. However, the best thing about Glenbrittle is the swimming. It really is a must.

14) Eat Mexican Food at Skye’s first and only Taco Van

Based by the ACE Target Sports site, the Blue Corn Taco Van is Skye’s only Mexican food outlet. Easily found on foot or by car from Portree, these delicious freshly made to order tacos are a great alternative to the traditional fare elsewhere.

15) Make Your Own Gin

The Isle of Skye Distillers shop (based in Portree), offer gin making sessions at their traditional copper stills. With an eclectic range of botanicals and expert advice you’re sure to leave with a bottle of personalised gin suited to your palate.

16) Tour Dunvegan Castle and Gardens

The only fully intact castle on the Isle of Skye, the splendid interiors give a true sense of Highland Life. There are plenty of artefacts to intrigue visitors including the mystical Fairy Banner. Outside, the gardens are enchanting. Plus, the castle offers seal watching boat trips. One of the best things to do on Skye for families.

17) Hire an (e)Bike

The Isle of Skye is well connected by a road network which welcomes drivers and cyclists. If you’re short on time, and the weather appears favourable, hop on a bike to enjoy the majestic landscape. A bike will give you quick access to the varied and rich attractions of Skye, plus an appetite for a hearty meal at the end of the day.

18) Sample Delicious Home Roasted Coffee

One of the most relaxing things to do on Skye is to sample the superb range of coffee shops. Both Birch and Caora Dhubh roast their own beans. They are the perfect places to start your coffee loving adventures on Skye.

19) Search for Whales

The rich waters of Skye are home to an impressive range of sea life. Daily sightings of seals, dolphins and porpoise in the summer months are joyful enough but there is something magical about seeing a whale. Orcas, minke, fin, humpback and pilot whales are all regular summer visitors. Either hike to a good vantage point such as Rubha Hunish, or go out on a dedicated whale watching boat for a chance to encounter these gentle giants.

20) Watch a Film at LAS

LAS is a multipurpose space: a candle shop, pizza restaurant, performance venue and cinema. One of the best things to do on a rainy day is to find a space at LAS and enjoy a film. There are daily showings of current blockbusters as well as a local film: ‘Skye Story’. The venue also hosts music and comedy events.

21) Learn About the Past at the Museum of Island Life

At the northern end of Skye, the Museum of Island Life is a charming collection of traditional crofters homes. Here, visitors can be hands on with exhibits and depictions of a bygone era. Regular events bring history to life and give you an appreciation of the endurance and hardships faced by highland dwellers of the past.

22) Chase the Northern Lights

During the darker, winter months days can be tough. However, one of the most memorable things to do on Skye is only available on a clear, dark winter’s night: watching the Northern Lights. It’s best to use an Aurora watching app or ask locals for advice on how/when to spot this mesmerising spectacle.

23) Participate in (or watch) the Highland Games

Summer sees one of the most iconic events come to Skye: the Highland Games. Visitors are welcome support as spectators but they can also participate in a range of games including tug-of-war. The town comes together to cheer competitors in impressive challenges such as the caber toss. It is a true slice of island life and a real treat if you are visiting Skye in the summer.

24) Scramble down Rubha Hunish

The most northerly tip of Skye is the peninsula Rubha Hunish. A bothy sits a top the first viewpoint, however, for those who like a challenge an intimidating near vertical scramble leads hikers down to a further beach and peninsula. The scramble is more achievable than it firsts appears and is certainly worth the effort. The peninsula is a haven for wildlife: seals, mink, birds nests and a very deep ocean gully that is a favourite swim past spot for whales.

25) Taste Local Smoked Salmon

Local smoked salmon is a staple of every menu in Skye. However, the only traditional smokehouse open to visitors is the excellent Skye Smokehouse. The passion project of a former chef trained in the Michelin star restaurants of the Ritz, the smokehouse is the place to go if you want to learn about all things smoked. And, of course, sample the delicious fish.

26) Explore the ruins of Duntulm or Dun Scaith Castle

Step into the past as you explore the windswept ruins of one of Skye’s ancient castles. Duntulm sits at the very North of Skye whereas Dun Scaith lies in the South. Both ruins are spectacularly Gothic and can be (carefully) climbed around. To enhance the experience, read about the bloody history and ghost stories associated with the castle before you step inside.

27) Dance at a Ceilidh

One of the liveliest things to do on Skye is to throw yourself into an experienced dance partner’s arms and let them whisk you around in a jig. Either ask a local or keep your eyes peeled for posters advertising local ceilidhs. They are regular events in the various community halls around Skye and visitors are warmly welcomed.

28) Hunt for Fossils at Bearreraig Bay

In the shadow of the Old Man of Storr, Bearreraig Bay is a fossil hunters paradise. You have to descend steep steps beside a disused funicular to access the beach, but once you are there you could easily spend an afternoon picking your way across the rocks looking for all types of fossils and geodes. Perhaps a seal will pop up to see what you’re doing but other than that you’re unlikely to share the bay with anyone else.

29) Listen to a Traditional Pipe Band

Throughout the summer months the Isle of Skye Pipe Band plays in the town square of Portree to entertain the crowds. It’s always a great atmosphere and a sound that is ubiquitous with Scotland.

30) Shop for Local Produce

The Highland Cow Deli in Portree and the Seafood Shack in Broadford are great examples of shops selling fresh, local produce. This is a great way to support local businesses as well as enjoying a taste of local fare. Particularly handy if you are staying in self-catering accommodation.

31) Walk in the Footsteps of Past Residents at Ramasaig

The Isle of Skye is full of evidence of the sad past of the Highland Clearances. One of the most atmospheric locations is Ramasaig. Here the outlines of ruined cottages sit in an idyllic cliffside spot next to a waterfall. Walking through these on a peaceful day, it is hard to imagine the turmoil of the past. Descend from the village to the beach and you’ll find one of the most isolated and beautiful spots on Skye.

32) Discover the Craft of Tannery at SkyeSkyns, Waternish

Proudly boasting to be the last traditional tannery on Skye, SkyeSkyns has a small workshop and museum dedicated to the profession. Visitors can buy sheep skin rugs or enjoy a coffee in the yurt whilst keeping warm on sheepskin seats. This cafe also has one of the best views on Skye.

33) Walk Brother’s Point

One of the lesser visited points on Skye, Brother’s Point is a wonderful choice for a moderate hike. The landscape here is rough and rugged with waves crashing against rocks. The very best, however, is saved for the end. When you reach the point, turn around and you are gifted with an unrivalled view of Kilt Rock and Mealt Waterfall.

34) Look for Dinosaur Prints at Staffin

There is a reason why the road around Staffin Bay is full of families and camper vans; hidden dinosaur footprints! Visible at low tide and hidden beneath sand and seaweed, hunting for the three-toed Megolasaur prints is a great activity to keep children entertained on a day in Skye.

35) Imagine you are on a Tropical Island at Coral Beach

If you’ve seen a photo of an unimaginably blue sea lapping white sand from the Isle of Skye it’ll be Coral Beach. When you first spy the beach from the walk across some farmland, it is almost impossible not to say ‘Wow!’ The water is translucent and the specks of coral so fine that you’ll be desperate to jump in for a swim. It is bracing but one of the most invigorating things to do on Skye.

36) Spot Seals

Skye is blessed with two species of seals: the common seal and the grey seal. This means that if you spend any time near the water you are bound to encounter these playful animals. There are colonies dotted around the island where pups can be seen playing all year round. Many boat tours even offer a money back guarantee if you don’t see any seals.

37) Enjoy a Michelin Guide Recommended Meal

Skye is a must-visit destination for foodies. Natural produce is in abundance and to taste it at its best you are spoilt for choice. There are a whopping six Michelin Guide Recommended restaurants on Skye, (Loch Bay holding one Michelin Star), plus several more highly praised establishments. For a real treat, book into one of these to taste the finest ingredients from the land and sea of Skye.

38) Marvel at Kilt Rock and Mealt Falls

Kilt Rock is one of the most photographed viewpoints on Skye. The distinctive red rock formation is said to resemble the pleats of a kilt. From the top of the cliff, the gushing Mealt waterfall drops 55 feet into the sea. The viewpoint is easily accessible and has a large car park to host the hundreds of visitors clamouring to see the natural wonder.

39) Observe Otters at Kylerhea

Otters are one of the most elusive inhabitants on Skye. Easily camouflaged and easily spooked, it can be a real challenge trying to see one in the wild. Luckily, local experts have created the well equipped hide at Kylerhea so you can sit in the shelter with a pair of binoculars and wait to see an otter on the shore below.

40) Visit the Inspiration for Jethro Tull’s Dun Ringill

Dun Ringill is an ancient stone broch, now a ruin, looking out across the sea. Park near the former home at Kilmarie of Jethro Tull’s founding member Ian Anderson and set out on a woodland, stream crossed walk to the Iron Age ruin of Dun Ringill. A great place to spot wildlife and imagine you’ve stepped back in time.

41) Look out for eagles

The cliffs of Skye are the best place to watch for white-tailed sea eagles, the largest bird of prey in Britain. This is especially exciting given that they were driven to extinction here by 1917. Their presence today, alongside the equally majestic golden eagles, is evidence of the success of rewilding programmes. Seeing the birds in flight is an awe inspiring experience.

42) Discover an abandoned broch and lighthouse

Just outside Portnalong, a signed path brings you to the wonderfully atmospheric Dun Ardtreck. This ancient broch is now overgrown and inhabited by a couple of flocks of highland sheep. The sheep have the right idea as this has to be one of the most unique viewpoints in Skye. A further walk along the path brings you to Ardtreck lighthouse. Now decommissioned, the lighthouse stands watch over Loch Harport. Either site is ideal for isolated picnics.

43) Join a wildlife photography tour

While wildlife is one of the main reasons people travel to Skye, if you want to take home a once in a lifetime souvenir then joining a wildlife photography tour is a must. Joining a small group of enthusiasts with an expert guide, your photography experience will give you the best chance of seeing some of Skye’s iconic creatures up close.

44) Visit the home of Gavin Maxwell, creator of Ring of Bright Water

Beneath the modern Skye Bridge, an island with an abandoned lighthouse and cottage can be seen. A strange juxtaposition of old and new, the cottage was once the home of Gavin Maxwell, the naturalist and author who gave the world Tarka the Otter. Further up the road in Kyleakin, a bronze statue memorialises the otter. For fans of the books, a visit to the cottage can be arranged from the Bright Water Visitor Centre. Keep your eyes on the water and you may just see an otter.

45) Visit the Small Isle (Rum, Canna and Eigg)

The Bella Jane and Misty Isles companies both run day trips to the Small Isles from Elgol. A visit to the Small Isles is an eye opening experience in revealing the variety and contrast of the islands. Canna is home to hundreds of breeding pairs of seabirds (including puffins in spring). It also has a wonderful honesty cafe, bar and shop. Neighbouring Rum is uninhabited, save for the herd of red deer that can be seen roaming the beach. One bunkhouse on the beach hosts hikers. Eigg is another world entirely; a sustainable eco-community with a real buzzing atmosphere.

46) Behold Neist Point Lighthouse

Neist Point lighthouse is a place you must visit on your trip to Skye. It is a heart-poundingly steep walk down from the parking bays to round a grassy peak before the lighthouse appears before you. But when you see it, it stops you in your tracks. Especially if you time your visit as the sun is setting. The lighthouse sits atop a whimsical white and yellow complex of buildings that looks as if its lifted straight from a Wes Anderson film. A half hour of sitting at the end of the rocks will often be rewarded with a visit by a passing whale.

47) Find Bonnie Prince Charlie’s Cave

Spend any amount of time in Skye and you’ll hear plenty of tales of Bonnie Prince Charlie’s adventures. For adventurous visitors, it is possible to find the cave where he is supposed to have enjoyed his last meal on his final night on Skye. You must check tide times as the cave is only accessible during low tide via a scrambling walk from Elgol.

48) Discover the artists and craftspeople of Skye

The excellent website (and printed guide) Art Skye details all the open studios scattered across Skye. Following the trail, you can visit artists in their homes as well as purchase original works to take home. There are so many to visit and such a wide range of genres and disciplines that it’s a great idea to pick up the guide at the start of your trip to Skye and incorporate popping into the studios alongside the rest of your itinerary.

49) Walk the Sleat Peninsula

The southernmost point of Skye is also one of its most idyllic walks. A challenging hour or so of hiking through heathland rewards walkers with a hidden gem of a beach. If swimming isn’t for you, then continue on to the modernist lighthouse to enjoy spectacular views across to Knoydart and the Small Isles. One of our favourite spots to sit with a picnic and perhaps spot some seals or dolphins.

50) Research the history of Flora Macdonald

Flora Macdonald is such a popular heroine from Scottish history that you’ll find reference to her exploits throughout Skye. For those interested in history, Flora Macdonald’s grave at Kilmuir is a worthwhile visit. The impressive Celtic cross dominates the skyline here. Further south, you can also visit Armadale Castle where Flora Macdonald was married or pass by her marital home in Flodigarry.

51) Enjoy live music by SEALL

Plenty of pubs and cafes will host live music throughout the year, so it’s always worth asking locals for their tips. However, the central hub for information about creative live events on Skye is SEALL. Responsible for the Skye Festival in July and countless other events all year round, they are the ones to watch if you’re interested in seeing some live music during your trip to Skye.

52) Explore the ancient cemetery on St Columba’s Isle

This is a lovely, peaceful hidden gem. Park by the bridge before the entrance to Skeabost Hotel and you’ll feel like a true explorer as you cross the bridge and step through the undergrowth onto St Columba’s Isle. The island is surrounded by a fast-flowing clear stream and strewn with wildflowers, amongst them you will spot ancient stone carved burial stones. The earliest stone dates from the 1000s and it is also the final resting place of members of the Nicholson Clan.

53) Forage for mushrooms and more

Skye’s woodlands are packed with edible mushrooms, berries, plants and nuts. Many of the best restaurants incorporate these ingredients into their dishes. However, if you want to go wild and forage for yourself, it is best done with an expert guide. Skye Ghillie leads hands-on explorations into the great outdoors teaching you all about the safe and delicious delicacies that can be found on Skye.

54) Photograph the landscapes of Skye

For serious and for budding photographers, Skye Photography Academy has a full range of tours, guides and equipment hire. Spending time to find the perfect spot and the optimal weather conditions can be a challenging but richly rewarding way to capture your time on Skye.

55) Tiptoe on volcanic sand at Talisker Beach

Already described in detail on our list of Skye’s best beaches, Talisker Beach really is a special place to visit during any trip to Skye. After a blissful walk through rolling countryside, the beach unfurls before you bookended by staggering rock formations and a peaty waterfall. The beach is marbled with white and black volcanic sand which is delightfully soft on bare feet. It’s hard to resist going in for a swim in any weather.

56) Marvel at ancient standing stones

Dotted around Skye is evidence of its ancient past. For real treasure hunting history fans, searching out the Pictish stone near Skeabost or the pair of standing stones of Kensaleyre is a fun thing to do in Skye. Read up about the local folklore to enhance your visit. Additionally, a new interpretation of a standing stone was erected in Dunvegan to mark the millennium.

57) Sip an artisan coffee at the architecturally significant Burr Coffee

After featuring on the popular architecture television series Grand Designs, this unique, sustainable building has opened part of the site as a coffee shop. With unrivalled views, delicious homemade cakes and thoughtfully curated gifts, Burr coffee is an essential stop if you’re visiting the northern point of the Trotternish peninsula.

58) Find famous film locations

The dramatic and unique geography of Skye has inspired many filmmakers. If you’re a movie buff, a day out spotting famous filming locations is a fun way to tour the island. The most notable films to follow in the footsteps of include: Stardust, Prometheus, Macbeth, 47 Ronin, Made of Honor, The BFG and many more.

59) Try your hand at working with a sheepdog

I don’t know the figures, but even a newly arrived visitor to Skye will see that sheep outnumber humans by a vast majority. On your trip around the island, you’re sure to witness many hard working sheepdogs doing their best to keep the sheep in check. If you love these dogs and are interested in learning more, you can sign up for a day working with a collie (and its owner). It’s not as easy as the dogs make it look!

60) Learn about the prehistoric past of Skye at the Staffin Dinosaur Museum

This is a small, quirky but charming museum located near the famous dino footprint beach in Staffin. The museum houses a superb range of fossils and artefacts alongside explanations of how Skye’s history was shaped.

61) Savour homemade ice cream

There are some experiences that holidays are made for: homemade ice cream is definitely one of them. For an all round crowd pleasing experience, the Wee Ice Cream Shop in Portree usually has queues out the door and boasts over 20 flavours including regularly updated specials. For an older, more adult palate the Elgol Bistro handmakes their boozy ice cream selection with flavours such as gin and blackberry.

62) Learn the ropes of sailing

Experiencing life on the waves is one of the most invigorating things to do on Skye. Portree Sailing Club often host open days, competitions and sailing taster sessions for all levels of experience. Alternatively, you can book a day’s sailing via Viewfield House Hotel for a private charter where you’ll be given the opportunity to steer the yacht.

63) Take a trip to Raasay to see Calum’s Road & Brochel Castle

The Isle of Raasay is so close you feel you can almost touch it, however it is a short ferry ride away. Once you are on Raasay, there is a wealth of interesting and wild places to explore. The most quirky of these is Calum’s Road. The road having been built by a frustrated resident, tired of waiting for the council to build a serviceable road. his rusted, discarded tools lie where they were flung at the end of his mission. Further along the road stand the proud ruins of Brochel Castle, a fabulous fantasy style structure.

64) Stretch your legs on the forest track above Loch Eynort

Follow directions to Loch Eynort trails car park and from there choose your own adventure: blue or yellow. Both routes snake through the forest offering glimpses of Loch Eynort as well as regular splashes of waterfalls. In addition, picnic benches line the route and the paths are clearly marked throughout making this a great entry level hike in Skye.

65) Stay in an isolated lighthouse at Isleornsay

If you have a desire to live out your Agatha Christie style glamorous, deserted break then look no further. The Isleornsay is visible from many vantage points on Skye but completely inaccessible unless you have a private boat trip to ferry you to the uninhabited island. Here you can stay in the 8 bedroom decommissioned lighthouse for an unforgettable break.

66) Experience the thrill of a RIB ride

A few companies based in Skye offer a more adrenaline packed experience than the more sedate boat trips. A trip on a RIB offers you the thrill of speeding along the waves and therefore covering more distance as you explore the coast of Skye. Whether interested in the thrill of the ride or the landscapes and wildlife, there will be an option to suit you. Seafari leaves from Portree and Elgol departures focus more on the wildlife at sea.

67) Play a round of golf

If the idea of a round of golf followed by a whisky in the clubhouse sounds quintessentially Scottish to you, you’ll love Sconser Golf Club. The course is based in a beautiful, coastal location and the club house is partnered with many local artisans (including the Isle of Skye Distillers) making it one of the most relaxing ways to experience a Scottish golfing break.

68) Learn about the traditional craft of pottery

Pottery is a widely recognised and appreciated craft in the isle of Skye. You’ll find handcrafted pieces for sale all over Skye, but if you want to see how they’re created head to one of the traditional pottery studios in Uig or Edinbane.

69) Kayak along the coast

Kayaking is a great option for more active travellers. By getting close to the water you feel connected to Skye in a unique way. If you haven’t got your own kayak, South Skye Sea Kayaking offer day trips and longer courses to help you enjoy the water.

70) See Skye’s famous resident Orcas

Wildlife is an essential ingredient of any trip to Skye. Furthermore, the beloved orcas John Coe and Aquarius are at the top of most wildlife lovers must-see list. During the summer months, you can use whale tracking apps, or ask a local for tips of where to head to spot these unique visitors to Skye’s coastline.

71) Have lunch in a vintage bookshop

You will work up an appetite with all the exploring, luckily, Skye has some fabulous lunch stops. A true treat is at Bog Myrtle cafe in Struan. This cafe is housed in an eclectic vintage bookshop and serves an ever changing array of freshly baked goods.

72) Take a tour of a traditional croft

The crofting community is the heart of Skye. Following traditional forms of farming and tending the land, a visit to a working croft is a fascinating thing to do on Skye. Wildlife Croft in Sleat offers tours as well as accommodation for visitors who really want to appreciate the way of crofting life.

73) Take a ride on the world’s last turntable ferry

The short crossing from Glenelg to Kylerhea may be the most delightful way of arriving on Skye. There is no need to book, and the crossings are at regular intervals throughout the day. Nevertheless, it is a good idea to plan in some extra time just in case the crossing is busy. Don’t worry though, the wait will go quickly as the short stretch of water is a favourite playground of seals and otters to watch.

74) Climb Dun Caan for a new perspective of Skye

The highest point of neighbouring island Raasay is Dun Caan. Indeed, its flat table like summit is a distinctive landmark on the skyline and therefore an alluring challenge for hikers. The hike itself is well marked and features hidden lochs and waterfalls along the way before reaching the peak. From this peak, hikers can enjoy a new view of Skye.

75) Wild camp

Scotland famously allows wild camping, something that is a wonderfully freeing option for visitors. With this in mind, going out to find your own patch of wilderness is a great way to visit Skye. As long as you are considerate of landowners, livestock and wildlife, you should have a peaceful experience.

76) Try a locally brewed craft beer

Although world-renowned for its whisky, the Isle of Skye also has a small but dedicated craft beer scene. In fact, both the Isle of Skye Brewery and the Cuillin Brewery offer tours and tastings. If this doesn’t fit your schedule, you can be sure to find it on tap at most pubs across Skye.

77) Hunt for honesty boxes

Finding somewhere to eat on Skye can be a challenge. Luckily, several enterprising residents have found a solution: honesty boxes. Throughout the island, these boxes can be found stocked with everything from quail eggs and cakes to original paintings and homemade candles. Mostly though, they stock cake…lots of cake.

78) Sail to the Outer Hebrides

With regular sailings from Uig and Elgol, visiting the neighbouring islands is a breeze. As well as the adventure on sea (and the potential for dolphin spotting) a visit to the Outer Hebrides reveals the contrast of the islands. With the brilliant Scottish Islands Passport app you can collect stamps from each of your stops.

79) Hike the Cuillins

The Cuillins are the formidable jagged peaks that run through the centre of Skye. They are a mecca for serious mountain climbers and take considerable preparation and skill to attempt. It is possible to enjoy a more accessible walk around the base of the mountain range, but for those with the right expertise, The Cuillins are a bucket list challenge.

80) Craft a dagger

For a truly unique experience and souvenir from Skye, spend the day crafting a traditional sgian dubh. The sgian dubh is the traditional knife worn as part of Scottish national dress. Therefore creating your own is a must-do for those passionate about their Scottish ancestry. Under the expert guidance of Fox’s Hollow Blacksmiths you can be sure to create something you’ll treasure.

81) Pick up a handmade candle

The Isle of Skye Candle Company is a local success story and their products can be found throughout the island. Initially being made in a small croft, the company now owns a huge shop and arts centre (LAS), the centre point being the candle shop. The candles feature fragrances unique to Skye such as Bog Myrtle, Heather Honey and Machair Flowers.

82) Cross the old bridge at Sligachan

Once you have been on Skye for a couple of days, you will come to recognise Sligachan Bridge as a central hub for traffic and tourists. It’s still worth crossing the old bridge though as you are walking in the footsteps of intrepid mountaineers of the past. Stand alongside the statues of Collie and Mackenzie and imagine that you are making those first steps to map the Cuillins.

83) Sleep in a bothy

There are bothies dotted throughout Scotland. However, only one true bothy is on Skye. That being said, it is an impressive one. Perching about Rubha Hunish, the bothy is a perfect place to camp out for an evening of whale watching before the sky turns dark and you turn the binoculars to the stars instead.

84) Scuba dive wrecks and kelp forests

Although the landscapes on shore are spectacular, they are well known. To enjoy a glimpse of the little-explored parts of Skye, you should dive in to its deep waters. The coast of Skye is teeming with life and offers plenty of wildlife and wrecks for divers to discover. Dive and Sea The Hebrides are a unique company offering guided dives for short trips and longer, more strenuous expeditions.

85) Find your tartan

If visiting Skye is a way for you to reconnect to your Scottish roots, you may be looking for your clan’s traditional tartan. The Portree Knitwear Company stocks a full range of tartans for you to select from. Additionally, Skye Weavers in Glendale offer a modern twist on the traditional craft.

86) Walk in the footsteps of Vikings and clan chiefs at Rubh’an Dunain

The past is still visible on Skye., and nowhere is is it more varied and engaging than Rubh’an Dunain. This is partly because of the beautiful walk that sweeps across the headland of Glenbrittle, but also because of the impressive remains here of a Viking boatyard and crofts. Most associated with the dreadful Highland Clearances, this area has much more to discover.

87) Stargaze from a designated Dark Sky Site

With 7 designated Dark Sky Sites, Skye is a superb place for stargazing. Good information boards at these sites help guide you to what can be seen in the night sky above you. Using the GoStargazing App can be a great help too. Time your visit to coincide with a specific event such a August’s Perseid Meteor shower, and you’ll have an unrivalled view of the shooting stars and milky way.

88) Try a staggering 400 whiskies at the ‘Whisky Bar of the Year’

Seumas’ Bar at Sligachan is a fine spot for hikers and climbers finishing their day on the Cuillins. That being said, you don’t have to have done a day’s hike to appreciate the range of whiskies available here. With over 400 whiskies on the shelves and the neighbouring breweries real ale on tap, it is the perfect place to sample Skye’s whisky heritage.

89) Fish for your supper on an angling tour

Salmon and other seafood are at the centre of the culinary scene of Skye. Understandably, you may wish to try your hand at catching your own salmon or trout to cook over an open fire. Equipment hire is available and opportunities plentiful. If you would prefer some guidance, then the excellent Skye Ghillie can provide a wealth of experiences.

90) Sample homegrown vegetarian fare with tea pairings

The delightful Chidakasha, meaning ‘abode of peace’, offers a tranquil break from the busy tourist bustle of Skye’s hotspots. Set in a traditional croft house, guests can enjoy homegrown vegetarian dishes with thoughtfully curated tea pairings.

91) Hop on a tour bus

If you only have a short time, have no transport or simply want to relax and let someone guide you, then a bus tour may be the best things for you to do on Skye. There are many operators including drivers who will offer a bespoke itinerary according to your interests.

92) Observe the seasons along the wildflower trails

The seasons are wondrous and clearly defined in Skye, whenever you are visiting a walk will take you through carpets of wildflowers. Spring is particularly beautiful with wild orchids and harebells, but toward the end of summer the purple heather paints the landscape. All Trails detail some fantastic routes to make the most of the fauna on Skye.

93) Tune in to Radio Skye for local tips and ideas

Radio Skye is a local radio station with a surprising range of content. Most is available online and can be listened to live via the website as well as tuning in. One of our favourite shows is the Sunday evening ‘Travelling Ghouls’, two seasonal workers on Skye recount their travel experiences as well as discussing Skye based myths and legends.

94) Cross the causeway to Oronsay

As long as you research the tide times in advance, a trip across the causeway to Oronsay Island makes a fantastic day out. Bring provisions for a picnic (and maybe a swim) and enjoy the isolation.

95) See cattle making their annual swim to Staffin Island

If you are in Skye at spring time, ask around to find out when the Staffin based herd of cows will be making their spring crossing to Staffin Island. The herd are unique in their journeying style and it is a quirky privelege to see them take to the water and head out to sea.

96) Follow the tracks of an abandoned railway line

There are no functioning railways on Skye, which makes following the tracks of a long disused on an interesting and revealing walk. The railway used to transport marble around the island, but now has been maintained to create one of the most accessible walks on Skye.

97) Have a wild ride in a jeep

If the single-track, potholed roads are off-putting to you as a driver, then let someone else do the driving! Touring in a jeep is the perfect transport for a tailormade, rugged experience.

98) Ascend the Old Man of Storr

If you only have a short time on Skye to visit one iconic site, this is probably the one. The Old Man of Storr is widely visible around the north of Skye. Therefore, it is much loved and visited. Because of this, you’ll find a fun, busy vibe on the the ascent of this striking rock formation.

99) Sail to St Kilda

St Kilda has a special place in Scottish history. Now abandoned, traces of the human inhabitants of the past make for an eerie backdrop for the thousands of birds that now call St Kilda home. Incredibly, St Kilda is the UK’s only dual UNESCO World Heritage Site. Make the boat trip yourself to discover what makes it so special.

100) Become a deer stalker

The majestic red deer are a spectacular site in Skye. It is no surprise that seeing the animals up close is a rare privilege that can be a challenge for regular tourists. Luckily, several Skye based deer stalkers offer their expertise. These can be simulated if you do not want to shoot any game. If you are interested in hunting game, the guides can also help with firearms permits etc.

101) Scale the inaccessible peak

Yes, it may sound like a paradox, but the infamous ‘Inaccessible Peak’ is an attractive challenge for experienced climbers. The peak is a 50ft pinnacle on top of Sgurr Dearg and is the most notorious summit in Britain. A qualified guide is a must to achieve this awesome challenge.

And that’s it, our top 101 things to do in Skye. Let us know what you think of our picks. Have we missed something awesome that you would like to see added? Please comment, we’d love to make this more than 101 things to do on Skye!