Skye packs an extraordinary amount of drama into a small island. Three days is enough to see the highlights without rushing, if you plan well and start early. Here is our tried-and-tested route.
Before You Go
Getting to Skye
The Skye Bridge at Kyle of Lochalsh is free and open all year. For a more characterful crossing, take the Glenelg to Kylerhea turntable ferry (April to October).
Campervan Parking & Wild Camping
Skye is busy and some areas now have 'No Overnight Parking' signs and restrictions. Respect them, use proper facilities, and consider a campsite or two during your stay.
Pro Tip: Beat the Crowds
The honeypot sites are overwhelmed between 10am and 4pm. Start early or visit in the evening to have the best spots almost to yourself.
Day 1: South Skye
Begin the morning at Sligachan, with its old bridge and views of the Cuillin. In the afternoon, walk to the Fairy Pools (a £5 car park fee and a 20-minute walk). In the evening, head to Glen Brittle Beach, with its black sand and the handy Glen Brittle Campsite.
Day 2: Trotternish
Arrive at the Old Man of Storr before 8am to beat the crowds for the 45 to 60 minute hike. Continue to Kilt Rock and Mealt Falls, then stop for lunch at Staffin, where the beach has dinosaur footprints. Walk the Quiraing past The Needle and The Table, then drop into Portree for fish and chips, fuel, water and waste. Wild camp around the Braes for the evening.
Day 3: Western Skye
Visit Dunvegan Castle, seat of Clan MacLeod, home of the Fairy Flag and seal boat trips. Walk the Coral Beach near Claigan, then finish at Neist Point Lighthouse, the island's best sunset spot and a great place for wildlife. Depart in the evening or stay one more night.
Essential Tips for Skye
Fuel & Supplies
Fill up and stock up in Portree or Broadford, where you will find a Co-op and other shops.
Midges
Bring Smidge or Avon Skin So Soft and a head net for calm evenings near water.
Alternative Activities & Extensions
- Talisker Distillery
- The Cuillin mountain range
- Elgol and a boat to Loch Coruisk
- Armadale Castle and Gardens
- Brother's Point