What To Do on the Isle of Skye: An Insider’s Guide by Katie Tunn

Many a traveller falls victim to the Isle of Skye's siren song. From its dramatic horizons to its warm, inviting residents, the isle really is a destination like no other. Home to the iconic Talisker distillery, whisky connoisseurs and the curious journey to Skye to partake in delectable drams.

However, there is a world of must-do, must-see, must-visit attractions beyond the distillery. Allow Katie Tunn - artist, ocean advocate, and resident of the North of Skye - to impart her expertise on exactly how to spend your time on this enchanting isle.

Introduction

A place of contrasts

Skye is a place famous for its sweeping, fairytale landscapes and dramatic, almost-otherworldly rock formations. You’ve probably seen it featured as a movie location or backdrop to a high-end commercial. Visitors travel from across the globe to immerse themselves amidst the iconic jagged spires of The Storr and Quiraing. But, while these sights are popular attractions for a reason (they are truly spectacular), there is so much more of ‘The Misty Isle’ to be discovered if you step off the tourist trail.

Skye is a place of contrasts… a busy working island, both homely and wild all at once. Sometimes peaceful, sometimes bustling. It’s many things but never boring. Whether you want to taste local produce, find a secret hike, discover independent artists and makers or spot world-class wildlife there is just so much to do.

I’ve lived on Skye for a decade now and I’m still finding new things each week. Here’s an introductory guide to some of my favourite, lesser-known things to see and do around the island. I hope that they will serve as a springboard for you to explore Skye and discover your own ‘hidden gems’.

Stay curious, you never know what you’ll find around the corner…

A person stands at the edge of a shoreline on rocks, while the sea crashes against the rocks. They look into the horizon.
A Scottish loch is pictured from a distance, showing the surrounding mountainous landscape.
The Scottish shoreline is seen from a highpoint, surrounded by trees with boats on the water.

Top Tip 01

Take your time

If I could give you only one travel tip it would be to give yourself time and don’t rush your visit. Many people try to ‘do’ Skye in a day and often underestimate the driving distances between places (it can take over two hours to get from one end of the island to another!). You’ll almost certainly find things that you’d like to stop and see so give yourself far more time than you think you’ll need!

Hiking

The best hikes in Skye: Beyond the Old Man of Storr

The Old Man of Storr is Skye’s number one attraction. With its towering pinnacles and views across the sea to Raasay and the mainland its popularity is well-earned! Visit early in the morning or late in the day to beat the crowds and catch it looking at its most beautiful. If you’re looking for something a little more secluded there are plenty of other trails where you can find quiet calm alongside similar breathtaking views. Coire Lagan, Rubha Hunish and Ben Tianavaig are three of my favourites.

Experienced hikers should head to Blà Bheinn (pronounced Blaven). The only Munro on Skye that’s not part of the Cuillin Hills, this mountain offers equally stunning scenery and the walk can be tailored to suit varying skill levels. It’s the perfect choice for an off-the-beaten-path adventure.

For a more peaceful alternative to the Fairy Pools, check out the gorges of Allt Daraich or Allt Dearg Mor at Sligachan. Here you’ll also find small, picturesque waterfalls but without the selfie-stick brigade (which is perfect if you fancy stripping off for a dip!). Plus the gentle wander there offers incredible views of the Cuillins without all the bustle.

For more inspiration, visit Walk Highlands.

Learn More
A person walks through a stream against the backdrop of a mountain range.

Top Tip 02

Be prepared

Always stick to hikes within your skill/fitness level and be prepared for bad weather or emergencies. The hills can be as wild as they look!

Dining

Where to eat on the Isle of Skye

Alongside the stunning scenery, Skye is also renowned for being a top spot for foodies. The combination of innovative chefs combined with world-class produce has created a food scene that is recognised world-wide and new and exciting places are opening up all the time. Here’s just a tiny selection of my top picks… A visit to the Talisker Distillery is, of course, a must-do for whisky-lovers and non-drinkers alike. Now you can sample some locally-inspired dishes along with your drams thanks to their new collaboration with The Three Chimneys restaurant, one of the island’s most iconic foodie establishments.

One place gaining attention (and numerous awards!) is an island favourite, Edinbane Lodge. This cozy restaurant with rooms offers a hyper-local and genuinely sustainable fine dining menu which features the island's freshest produce and foraged finds. Delicious flavours and a wonderfully warm welcome are guaranteed.

If you’re after something more mid-range in price, head to Scorrybreac in Portree. It’s a small, family-run spot that showcases the best of ingredients Skye has to offer in a modern way. Their tasting menu might just surprise you… think venison carpaccio with foraged berries. A wander along Portree pier at sunset is the perfect way to end your meal.

For more casual bites there’s the Hungry Gull and Columba 1400 in Staffin, Bog Myrtle in Struan or the delightful Dunvegan Bakery.

Coffee aficionados can get their fix with superb artisan brews that rival the best offerings found in any big city. Check out Bùrr in the far North, Caora Dubh Coffee Co in Carbost, Birch in Portree and Lean To Coffee in Broadford.

Visit Talisker Distillery
A waiter places a tray of langoustines onto a table which is outside overlooking a Scottish loch. In front of him is the Talisker distillery.

Top Tip 03

Get in quick

Always book ahead as the best restaurants get booked up quickly!

Shopping

Shop local and meet the makers on the Isle of Skye

By buying local you help to support our small community. There’s also no better way to immerse yourself in island life than meeting its artists and makers! Skye is bursting with creativity. From jewellers to knitters, photographers to painters, there is something for every taste…

Skyeworks, Raven Press and Aird Old Church are all independent galleries that showcase a range of contemporary artwork and gifts inspired by nature and the rugged beauty of Skye’s landscapes.

Many artists have home galleries or open studios and the best way to discover them is to simply keep your eyes peeled for signs whilst travelling around the island. Some even use honesty boxes for selling their artwork so look out for those too!

If you’re a knitter you mustn’t miss a visit to the Isle of Skye Natural Dye Co. Situated South of Staffin at the Glenview, maker Kirsty uses natural dyes sourced from local plants to create stunning yarns in shades both earthy and vibrant. In the shop you’ll find a range of lovely gifts and knitting supplies, from DIY kits to finished pieces -all made with Skye’s natural landscape in mind.

Another traditional craft can be found at Skyeskyns in Waternish, the last trading tannery in Scotland. They offer a fascinating tour that takes you behind the scenes to see how they process these otherwise-wasted skins and how they use modern ideas to make this historic craft more eco-friendly. Whether you’re looking for a sheepskin rug or just want to learn more about their unique process, this place is worth a visit.

For those who love clay and ceramics there’s a wealth of studios and workshops to visit. You can watch artisans hard at work at Edinbane Pottery and Quirky Clay or browse the striking pieces by Maggie Zerafa at her shop near Armadale Pier.

Adventuring

Go outdoors with Skye activities

Skye is as much about the sea as it is about mountains and seeing it from the water is one of the best ways to appreciate how magnificent it truly is.

Not only that, the waters surrounding the island are home to a diverse array of wildlife including dolphins, orca and humpback whales. On a summer boat trip you’re more likely to see something than not!

There are plenty of options to choose from…

For something special, Seaflower Skye offers a luxury tour to the neighbouring island of Rona that include a fabulous lunch, wine and coffee.

For something smaller and closer-to-shore the boat trips from Dunvegan Castle are a delightful way to see the local seal colonies and look out for eagles. Or you could try a kayaking session with South Skye Sea Kayaks to explore some of Skye’s 40+ miles of coastline -an experience that allows you to see Skye from a totally new perspective.

If you prefer solid ground to ocean waves, consider hopping on a self-guided tour with Skye E-bike Adventures. Skye’s winding roads and steep climbs are no joke, so an e-bike is a great way to explore the island’s rugged terrain without feeling like you’re competing in the Tour de France!

For wildlife spotting on land all you really need is a pair of binoculars, some patience and a bit of luck. But if you’d like to increase your chances of sighting an otter, stag or resting eagle you can employ the help of an expert guide... Isle of Skye Wildlife tours will help you tick off your species bucket list, Skye Ghillie will take you on an immersive wild walk and, if you’re into photography, Harry Martin will help you capture the ultimate shot.

Two women sit in a kayak on the water in front of Talisker distillery. One faces the camera, waving.

Staying in

What to do on rainy days on the Isle of Skye

“If you don’t like the weather in Scotland, just wait five minutes!”

It’s a phrase used often because it’s true! Hebridean weather can be unpredictable and it often rains as much in summers as it does in winter. On the plus side it means that Skye is a land of rainbows, but it also means that it’s really important to be prepared for the weather to change at any moment.

Decent waterproofs can make the difference between a brilliant walk and a miserable one. But, with that said, sometimes even the hardiest outdoor enthusiast needs a day to dry out so here are some more ways to escape the wet weather…

Dry doesn’t mean dull and Ace Target Sports offers adventurous activities including axe-throwing, archery and shooting at their off-grid base just outside of Portree. With expert guidance and a friendly atmosphere it’s a really fun place to release your competitive side!

It’s not hard to imagine dinosaurs roaming the island and you can peep a glimpse of its prehistoric inhabitants by visiting the Dinosaur Museum near Staffin. This tiny museum is home to some world-class fossils and the knowledgeable staff are always keen to share their interesting stories and facts about Skye’s fascinating past.

Another hidden gem is the Museum of Island Life in Kilmuir. It’s a small, unassuming spot that many tourists miss, but it offers a fascinating glimpse into how islanders lived centuries ago. Walking through the traditional thatched cottages, you can almost feel the history seep through the stone walls. Visiting here will make you see Skye in a different way and it’s well-worth making time for.

Top Tip 04

Have a blether

Take the time to stop and chat with local folk where you can (be mindful if they’re busy, of course). Many people will be happy to share stories, tips and recommendations. They might even tell you about the hidden places that you won’t find online -but only if you promise not to spill the secret!

If you don’t like the weather in Scotland, just wait five minutes!

The final word

Create your own adventure

Of course, these suggestions barely scratch the surface of what our beautiful island has to offer but use them as a starting point and you’ll soon create your own adventures. So take your time, talk to local folk and don’t rush.

Do this and you’ll soon discover that Skye has a soul far beyond the Instagram-worthy spots.

Katie Tunn is an artist and ocean advocate living in the North of Skye. She has collaborated with Talisker whisky to create a limited edition bottle ‘inspired by the sea’ and was their first ever artist-in-residence. When not in her studio she can usually be found somewhere on the shore.

You can follow Katie on Instagram at @KatieTunn (personal) or @katietunnart (artwork) or visit her website at www.katietunn.com.

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