The Isle of Skye

The Isle of Skye is the most magical and dramatic of Scotland's islands, a wild realm of jagged black mountains, the Cuillin, plunging sea cliffs and surreal rock formations sculpted by ancient landslips. Waterfalls tumble to the sea, the Old Man of Storr and the Quiraing rise like something from myth, and the fairy pools shimmer in the glens, all under the fast-moving, brooding light of the Hebrides.

The landscape

• The Old Man of Storr - the towering rock pinnacle above the sea.
• The Quiraing - the surreal landslip landscape of pinnacles and plateaux.
• The Fairy Pools - the clear blue pools and falls beneath the Cuillin.
• The Cuillin mountains - the jagged black peaks, the finest in Britain.

When to go

Late spring to early autumn for the best weather, long days and open roads; the light and landscape are magical, but the weather is wild and wet year-round, and summer brings midges. Book accommodation well ahead, as it is limited and popular.

What to expect

It is very popular, so the famous spots like the Fairy Pools and Storr have busy car parks and worn paths, and accommodation is limited and books up far ahead. The weather is wild and often wet, and a car is essential as the island is large with sparse transport.

Nearby

The Highlands and Eilean Donan Castle are on the mainland nearby; the Outer Hebrides lie by ferry.

Key facts