The Isle of Skye is the biggest of Scotland's islands (now linked to the mainland by a bridge at Kyle of Lochalsh), a 50-mile-long smorgasbord of velvet moors, jagged mountains, sparkling lochs and towering sea cliffs. It takes its name from the old Norse sky-a, meaning 'cloud island', a Viking reference to the often mist-enshrouded Cuillin Hills, Britain’s most spectacular mountain range. The stunning scenery is the main attraction, including the cliffs and pinnacles of the Old Man of Storr, Kilt Rock and the Quiraing, but there are plenty of cosy pubs to retire to when the rain clouds close in.
Portree is the main town, with Broadford a close second; both have banks, ATMs, supermarkets and petrol stations.
Dunvegan CastleCASTLE
Skye’s most famous historic building, and one of its most popular tourist attractions, Dunvegan Castle is the seat of the chief of Clan MacLeod. It has played host to Samuel Johnson, Sir Walter Scott and, most famously, Flora MacDonald. The oldest parts are the 14th-century keep and dungeon but most of it dates from the 17th to 19th centuries.
Skye ToursBUS TOUR
Five-hour sightseeing tours of Skye in a minibus, departing from the tourist office car park in Kyle of Lochalsh (close to Kyle of Lochalsh train station).
BOAT
Despite the bridge, there are still a couple of ferry links between Skye and the mainland. Ferries also operate from Uig on Skye to the Outer Hebrides.
Mallaig to ArmadaleFERRY
The Mallaig to Armadale ferry (30 minutes, eight daily Monday to Saturday, five to seven on Sunday) is very popular on weekends and in July and August, so book ahead if you’re travelling by car.
Glenelg to KylerheaFERRY
Runs a tiny vessel (six cars only) on the short Kylerhea to Glenelg crossing (five minutes, every 20 minutes). The ferry operates from 10am to 6pm daily (till 7pm June to August).
BUS
There are buses to Portree from Kyle of Lochalsh (£6.50, one hour, six daily) and Inverness (£24, 3¼ hours, three daily).
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