1. Hike to the Old Man of Storr

Time Needed: 2 hours 

The Old Man of Storr is one of the best hikes on the Isle of Skye and is not to be missed. The “Old Man” is a towering rock formation that rises up from the slopes of the Trotternish Ridge. The ridge was formed millions of years ago by ancient volcanic activity and massive landslides. 

Along the trail, you’ll enjoy panoramic views over Loch Leathan and across to the Isles of Raasay and Rona, as well as an incredible perspective of the Old Man itself.

The hike follows an out-and-back route, totalling around 5km (3 miles). It’s one of the most popular hikes on the Isle of Skye, so I’d recommend arriving early to secure parking and avoid the busiest crowds.

You should also check the weather forecast before setting off. When I first pulled up at the car park ready to start my hike, the wind was so strong the car was shaking and it was pouring with rain. I ended up having to reschedule my hike for the next day.

Parking at the Old Man of Storr is paid, and spaces fill up quickly during summer, from mid-morning onwards. There are also public toilets at the car park, which are worth using before continuing your Skye road trip, as many attractions across the island don’t have facilities.

For more essential tips, check out my full guide to help you make the most of your visit: Old Man of Storr Hike: Everything You Need to Know (Distance, Difficulty & Views)

2. Visit the Fairy Pools 

Time Needed: 1.5 – 2 hours

A visit to the Fairy Pools (also known as the Faerie Pools) is one of the best things to do on the Isle of Skye. Located in Glen Brittle beneath the Black Cuillin Mountains, the Fairy Pools are a series of crystal clear natural pools linked by small waterfalls. Each one is unique in shape and size as they cascade down the mountainside.

From the large car park, a walking trail follows the stream of pools. You can walk as far as you like, as there’s no official endpoint to the trail. It continues towards the base of the mountains, becoming more rugged, and the further you go, the quieter it becomes.

The trail is relatively easy, but there are some rocky sections where you’ll need to watch your footing, and parts of the path that run near the waterfalls can be wet and muddy. 

If you’re feeling brave, wild swimming is possible here, but be prepared for freezing water no matter the season, as it comes straight from the mountains. 

Allow extra time for your drive to the Fairy Pools, as there’s a long section of single-track road leading to the car park. While additional passing places have been added in recent years, the road does still become very busy during the summer.

3. Visit Dunvegan Castle and Gardens

Time Needed: 1 – 2 hours

No trip to Scotland is complete without visiting a few castles, and Dunvegan Castle and Gardens is a great one to include during your time on the Isle of Skye. 

Dunvegan Castle is known for being the oldest continuously inhabited castle in Scotland. It’s been occupied by the same family for the last 800 years, the MacLeod Clan. After seeing the castle, you can spend time wandering around the surrounding formal gardens.

The castle is open seasonally from April to mid-October. There’s no need to pre-book, you can purchase your ticket on arrival from the ticket office. You can choose to take a guided tour and learn more about the rich history, or explore at your own pace with a self-guided visit.

4. Hike the Quiraing

Time Needed: 
Viewpoint only: 15 – 30 minutes 
Full hike: 3 – 4 hours

One of the best places to visit on the Isle of Skye is the Quiraing. It’s part of the Trotternish Ridge, a landscape shaped millions of years ago by massive landslides and ancient volcanic lava flows. It’s a truly unique area combining rocky peaks, grassy plateaus, streams and cliffs, with views across the rolling hills and out towards Staffin Bay. 

From the Quiraing Car Park you can start the 6.5 km (4 mile) loop hike, or if you’d prefer not to complete the hike, you can head to the viewpoint a short walk from the car park. 

My top tip for the Quiraing hike is to be prepared for all weather conditions. When I hiked, it rained on and off throughout the day, so I was constantly adding and removing layers. I was very glad to have waterproof pants. You should also wear waterproof shoes with good grip, as parts of the trail became very boggy. 

The Quiraing car park fills up quickly during summer, especially between 10am and 2pm, so arriving early helps avoid parking issues. If you’re planning to hike the Quiraing for sunrise or early morning views, I’d recommend staying nearby in Staffin, which is just a 15 minute drive away. You can also check out my guide on Where to Stay on the Isle of Skye for the best areas to base yourself during your trip.

This is one of the best hikes on the Isle of Skye and is easily my favourite. I’ve also put together a detailed Quiraing hiking guide to help you plan your visit: Hiking the Quiraing, Isle of Skye: Route, Tips and What to Expect

5. Neist Point Lighthouse

Time Needed: 1 – 1.5 hours

Visiting Neist Point, you’ll find yourself on the most westerly tip of the Isle of Skye. It is quite a remote location, and you’ll be driving along kilometres of single-track roads to reach it. There are plenty of passing places, but if you encounter oncoming traffic you’ll need to be patient and allow extra time to reach the point. 

From the car park, it’s a 3 km (1.9 miles) out-and-back trail across the headland, offering views over the scenic cliffs and out to sea. At the end of the path, you’ll reach the Neist Point Lighthouse. 

The day I visited, it was extremely windy and the headland is completely exposed, so I’d recommend dressing in layers and bringing a windproof jacket. There are also no toilet facilities out here, so plan ahead.

6. Lealt Falls Viewpoint

Time Needed: 15 – 30 minutes

Lealt Falls is one of the many waterfalls on the Isle of Skye, and one of the most accessible and impressive to visit. 

Just a 25 minute drive from Portree, you can pull into the free car park and admire the falls from a wooden viewing platform, making it a great quick stop even for those on a tight schedule. From here, you’ll see the waterfall plunging down into the coastal gorge before continuing towards the sea. 

If you have more time, you can also take an easy walk along the gorge, offering a different perspective of the falls and sweeping views of the coastline. It’s a peaceful spot and often much quieter than some of the Skye’s more famous attractions.

7. Walk Along An Corran Beach

Time Needed: 30 minutes – 1 hour

It’s time to go searching for dinosaur footprints on An Corran Beach – no, I’m not joking! 

The area around Staffin is known as the ‘dinosaur stomping ground of Scotland’, where real Jurassic footprints have been uncovered. As you walk over the flat rocks, keep an eye out for the three-toed prints of the Megalosaurus. 

I first heard about them from an enthusiastic local, who showed me photos of what to look for on his phone. He did warn me that I might not spot them after recent storms had likely buried the prints under sand and seaweed. 

Unfortunately, I didn’t find any myself, but hopefully you’ll have better luck. But if you don’t find the footprints, the beach has stunning views of the Trotternish Ridge and nearby cliffs so it’s worth a stop on its own.

8. Admire the Views at Kilt Rock and Mealt Falls

Time Needed: 10 – 20 minutes 

Kilt Rock is named for its resemblance to a Scottish kilt, with the basalt columns that look like pleats and layered rock creating a pattern similar to tartan. In front of Kilt Rock, you’ll see Mealt Falls plunging straight into the sea below. The waterfall takes its name from Loch Mealt, the freshwater lake that feeds it. 

Together they’re an incredible sight. From the viewpoint, you’ll also have sweeping views across the cliffs and out across the sea towards the Isle of Raasay. 

It’s an easily accessible stop, with a large car park and short walk to the viewpoint, making it a great quick stop for photos and coastal views.

9. Wander Through the Fairy Glen

Time Needed: 30 – 60 minutes 

If there were fairies living in Scotland, this is where they would call home. Walking into the Fairy Glen feels like stepping into a magical world, and it’s easy to see how it got its name.

Like many other landscapes on the Isle of Skye, the unusually shaped rock formations, green grassy mounds and scattered ponds were created by ancient landslides.  

One of the most prominent formations is Castle Ewan, a hill topped with a rocky pinnacle that can be climbed for views over the Fairy Glen. 

Visiting the Fairy Glen is one of the most unique things to do on the Isle of Skye.

10. Explore the Colourful Harbour in Portree

Time Needed: 2 hours 

Portree is the largest town on the Isle of Skye and is one of the best places to base yourself on the Isle of Skye thanks to its central location. 

While you’re there, take time to wander through the town and down to the harbour, where you’ll find the iconic colourful buildings along the waterfront. 

There’s also a good selection of shops, cafes and restaurants making it the perfect stop for a meal or a bit of shopping. You’ll also find a large Co-op supermarket where you can stock up on supplies before exploring more remote parts of Skye.

11. Stop by Skye Market Square

Time Needed: 30 minutes – 1 hour

Skye Market Square is a lovely collection of local stores, located right next to the Co-op on the main street of Broadford. I stumbled upon it while searching for breakfast options and spotted The Market Kitchen on Google Maps.

The Market Kitchen serves up a delicious range of Scottish breakfast rolls. I highly recommend the streaky maple-cured bacon with a hash brown and a hot drink. Perfect fuel for a day of exploring Skye.

Once you’ve filled your belly, you can wander through the surrounding shops. You’ll find a mix of local food products, handmade crafts, unique gifts, and antiques. It’s the perfect spot to pick up a souvenir to remember your time on Skye.

12. Sligachan Old Bridge

Time Needed: 10 – 20 minutes

As the name suggests, Sligachan Old Bridge is a historic stone bridge crossing the River Sligachan that dates back to the early 1800s. It’s a scenic spot with the Cuillin Mountains in the background and the river flowing beneath. 

Located right next to a free car park, it’s perfect for a quick photo stop or a short walk.

Best Hikes on the Isle of Skye

The Isle of Skye is home to some of the most scenic hikes in Scotland, ranging from short coastal walks to mountain trails. If you’re struggling to decide which hikes to prioritise during your trip, here’s a quick overview of some of the best hikes on the Isle of Skye: 

Hike	Difficulty	Distance	Time	Highlights
Old Man of Storr	Moderate	Approx. 5km out and back	2 hours	Iconic rock formations
Quiraing	Moderate	6.5km loop	3–4 hours	Dramatic ridge landscapes
Fairy Pools	Easy	Approx. 2km out and back	1.5–2 hours	Waterfalls and pools
Neist Point	Easy – Moderate	3km out and back	1–1.5 hours	Coastal cliff views

Important Things to Know Before Visiting the Isle of Skye

Weather Changes Quickly

The weather on the Isle of Skye can change incredibly quickly. It might start as a clear sunny day, only for the wind to pick up and then the rain to start pouring shortly afterwards. 

I’d highly recommend dressing in layers, and always carrying waterproof clothing, even if the forecast looks good. I made the mistake of not packing waterproof pants and ended up having to buy some from an outdoor store in Portree.

Single-Track Roads

Many roads on the Isle of Skye are narrow, winding single-track roads with passing places used to safely let oncoming vehicles pass. If you’re not used to driving on single-track roads, it can feel intimidating at first, especially during summer when there are lots of campervans and motorhomes. 

You should drive with caution, use passing places properly, and allow extra travel time while road tripping around the island.

Petrol Stations Are Limited

If you are travelling in the more remote parts of the Isle of Skye, keep in mind that petrol stations can be limited. I’d recommend filling up when you pass through larger towns like Portree or Broadford.

Book Accommodation Early

Accommodation on the Isle of Skye can book out months in advance for summer. I’d recommend booking as soon as you have your travel dates confirmed. If you’re wondering where to stay and the best areas to book accommodation, you can read my guide: Where to Stay on the Isle of Skye.

Phone Signal

Some remote parts of the island do not have phone signal. I’d recommend downloading offline maps or carrying a paper map as backup. 

When I stayed at the Glenbrittle Campsite, I had no phone signal and no Wi-Fi.

Toilets and Facilities

Many attractions on the Isle of Skye have limited facilities, particularly hiking areas and scenic viewpoints. It’s worth using toilets whenever you stop in larger towns or attractions that do have facilities.

Midges in Summer

Midges are tiny flying insects that bite and feed on blood, causing itchy red bumps on your skin. They are most active from late May to early September, with July and August considered the worst months. 

You should wear insect repellent and ideally long sleeves. I’d also recommend packing a head net. I honestly thought it was overkill bringing it but I’m very glad I did because I definitely used it, especially when hiking.

Map of Locations

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Isle of Skye Travel FAQs

What is the best thing to do on the Isle of Skye?

If I had to pick just one of these best things to do on the Isle of Skye, it would be hiking the Quiraing. The landscapes are some of the most incredible in Scotland, with unique rock formations, dramatic cliffs, grassy hills and sweeping coastal views across the Trotternish Ridge. 

How many days do you need on the Isle of Skye?

I’d recommend spending at least 2–3 days to see the main highlights. If you’re planning to do multiple hikes, I’d suggest allowing 4–5 days. The weather can also be unpredictable, so adding an extra day to your Isle of Skye itinerary gives you more flexibility to rearrange plans if needed.

What is the best month to visit the Isle of Skye?

May to September offers longer daylight hours and the best chance for clear hiking conditions on the Isle of Skye. I visited in September, which is considered a shoulder month with slightly fewer crowds than peak summer. Car parks still filled up at popular attractions, so I’d recommend visiting in either May or September for a good balance of weather and crowd levels.

Is driving on the Isle of Skye difficult?

I wouldn’t describe it as difficult, but you do need to feel comfortable navigating narrow single-track roads. It can sometimes feel intimidating when passing large campervans or motorhomes but there are plenty of passing places along the roads. Taking your time and driving cautiously makes a big difference.

Where should I stay on the Isle of Skye?

Portree is one of the best places to stay on the Isle of Skye for first time visitors due to its central location and good range of restaurants, accommodation and shops. If you’re planning to hike the Quiraing or Old Man of Storr, staying in Staffin can also be a great option for easier access to northern Skye attractions.

I’ve also written a detailed guide on where to stay on the Isle of Skye to help you choose the best area for your trip.

Is the Isle of Skye worth visiting?

Yes, the Isle of Skye is definitely worth visiting. It’s one of the most beautiful destinations in Scotland, with mountain landscapes, waterfalls, castles and scenic road trips. Whether you enjoy hiking, photography or simply exploring nature, there are plenty of incredible things to do on the Isle of Skye. 

Can you visit the Isle of Skye without hiking?

You can absolutely enjoy the Isle of Skye without doing long hikes. Many of the island’s top attractions have accessible viewpoints or only require short walks. Even places like the Quiraing can be enjoyed from a viewpoint without completing a hike.

Continue Your Scotland Road Trip

If you’re planning to continue your Scotland road trip, check out my detailed 5 day NC500 itinerary for exploring Scotland’s incredible north coast.