Are you looking for the best place to stay in Skye? Whether you’re looking for a Bed & Breakfast, a cottage, lodge, a luxury hotel or to experience Skye from a campsite, hostel or wigwam, we have you covered. We will show you some accommodation options and even offer recommendations on amazing places to visit nearby.
The Isle of Skye is a land of contrasts: ancient landmarks and contemporary culture, rugged landscapes and pretty coastal villages, cosy pubs and award-winning restaurants. Its beauty is mesmerising, attracting photographers from all over the world. Some spots are among the most photographed locations in Scotland.
Film-makers too are drawn to the island. Highlander, Stardust, Macbeth and Snow White & The Huntsman all made use of Skye’s dramatic scenery. The landscape also inspired the animated world for the BFG, Spielberg’s interpretation of the Roald Dahl classic.
Beaches are as fine as you’ll find anywhere in the world – although admittedly not as warm as some. Guidebooks may recommend you allow a day or two to explore the Isle of Skye, but we would encourage any visitor to Skye to linger a little longer, if possible, to discover more of this beautiful island and its rich history.
The Isle of Skye is the second largest of Scotland’s 790 islands. It’s on the West Coast of Scotland and is one of the most sought-after places to visit in Scotland. Skye is a truly magical place to visit and home to some of Scotland’s most inspiring landscapes. A land of mystery, intrigue and natural beauty Skye is a fantastic place to spend some time when in Scotland.
Photography by Andrew Alexander
Photography by Andrew Alexander
As far as Scotland staycation or mini-break destinations go, you’ll be hard pushed to find anywhere with more breath-taking natural beauty on offer than Skye.
Located off the north-west coast of Scotland, the island – connected to the mainland by the Skye Bridge which opened in 1995 – is famous for its scenery and rugged landscapes, making it a dreamy destination for those looking for a rural escape and to get in touch with nature.
Despite being the largest of the Inner Hebrides, Skye is just 639sq miles in size and so it is perhaps surprising that it boasts a plethora of individual locations, each with its own unique selling point, for visitors to explore and enjoy.
While strictly speaking not on Skye, Lochalsh is the gateway to the island. Known for its castles, hills and – as the name suggests – lochs, Lochalsh is a beautiful village, within easy reach of attractions such as the Five Sisters of Kintail.
Standing proudly on the coast of Loch Alsh, The Field House is the perfect retreat for those looking for outdoor adventures. With hiking, paddleboarding, sea kayaking, climbing, wild swimming and mountain biking all on the doorstep, there’s no better location for active pursuits. Equally beautiful but in a different sense, is the house’s interior, which is so comfy and pristine you could be forgiven for treating yourself to a day of R&R indoors.
A stunning property with stylish Scandinavian design, 57 Nord is idyllic if you’re into modern living and luxury. Just a short hop from the Five Sisters of Kintail, which can be enjoyed through the sliding glass walls, and a quick journey across the Skye Bridge to explore the isle, the house boasts so many features which make it unique and a real talking point.
Nestled on the east coast of the Isle of Skye, Kyleakin was the former gateway to Skye, before the bridge was opened. Now, minus the ferry port and associated queues, the village is a destination in its own right, with bars, restaurants and a small marina to enjoy. The Castle Moil ruins and walking routes on the hill of the red fox provide plenty of outdoor entertainment too.
Commonly referred to as the ‘garden of Skye’, Sleat is a peninsula on the south of the island. Among all its picturesque natural sights and castles such as Armadale and Dunscaith, Sleat also attracts visitors due to the recently opened Torabhaig Distillery, which offers tours and a gift shop.
Treating visitors to views of Knock Castle and Knock Bay, as well as the Sound of Sleat, this beautifully appointed cottage offers amenities such as a wood-burning stove in the lounge for cosy nights in, and even Egyptian Cotton sheets for a great night’s sleep. In terms of location, Skye White House could hardly be more idyllic, not only with the scenery on the doorstep, but also proximity to the Clan Donald Visitors Centre, local pubs and beautiful beaches.
Imagine sliding back into a luxurious rolltop bath, a glass of wine in hand and views spanning across Knock Bay and the Sound of Sleat. That’s what Skye Window House has to offer. Modern, stylish and with little touches of luxury – not to mention the floor to ceiling panoramic windows – this is the perfect place to balance exploring Skye and its stunning natural beauty, with rest and relaxation.
This beautiful one-bedroom cottage is the perfect setting from which to explore Skye or the nearby Lochalsh, being situated just minutes from Skye Bridge. The cottage attracts a variety of interesting wildlife, so is fantastic for bird-spotting and the like, while stargazing and even possibly seeing the Northern Lights could be on the agenda. Stonechat Bothy comes equipped with home comforts and mod-cons, so it’s a true home away from home.
The perfect place to base yourself if you’re keen to explore the Red Cuillins mountains, Broadford is a nature lover’s paradise. As well as challenging yourself by climbing the highest point, Glamaig, which is one of just two Corbetts on Skye, be sure to pack binoculars and a camera to snap the local residents – otters, seals, whooped swans, orca whales and brent geese.
Bothan Buidheag and Bothan Beileag – The two shepherd huts, which both accommodate two people, are ideal for a peaceful stay. With just Gilbert and George (the donkeys!) and a few hens for company, you can fully relax mind and body. A great chance to escape mod-cons and distractions of technology, the shepherd huts are basic but in a quirky, charming way, and perfect to set the scene for your rural escape.
This pet-friendly accommodation on the edge of Broadford is a great spot from which to discover all the delights Skye has to offer. Just a 20-minute walk from the main amenities of the village, including restaurants, cafes, shops and art galleries, you’re never far from something to do. Eco-friendly and using local suppliers, there’s a lot to love about Croft Four’s two cottages. They even showcase local art to really give visitors the full Skye experience.
Situated on the Minginish Peninsula, Carbost attracts tourists largely thanks to the Talisker Distillery – famous for its single malt scotch whisky. The distillery was founded in 1830, making it Scotland’s oldest and visitors can enjoy tours, tastings and even masterclasses.
The capital of Skye, Portree is the island’s main holiday destination. A hub for culture and bustling activity, visitors won’t be short of things to do in the town itself – although many also use it as a base to explore other areas of Skye. Its harbour is postcard-worthy and Portree also boasts the Aros Centre – an award-winning setting for concerts, theatre productions and film screenings.
Located in the heart of Portree, The Bosville is perfect for exploring the capital and all it has to offer. With rooms with harbour or garden views and an award-winning restaurant on-site, visitors can’t fail to have a fantastic stay. And that’s before you take into account the fluffy white towels, 100% cotton sheets and handmade Scottish toiletries, all complimentary as part of the accommodation.
An original 1830’s crofter’s cottage that has been completely renovated as a Highland retreat for two. Situated beside Camustianavaig Bay on the Isle of Skye, the house enjoys a rural location, yet is only five miles from Portree. The self catering accommodation is designed as a peaceful and stylish retreat for two, a perfect base from which to explore the Scottish Highlands and Islands.
A perfect blend of modern and original features, Tigh Dubh (or the ‘Black House’) offers a unique stay in Edinbane. The self-catering hideaway is quirky yet homely, and an ideal base for exploring the local area and further afield. Of an evening, visitors can enjoy the board games or make use of the iPod docking station to listen to music, while the locally sourced and crafted ‘box bed’ is a really unique feature.
Just a few miles south of Dunvegan is Harlosh black h, a minimalist and contemporary retreat, ideal for relaxing mind and body as you enjoy all the natural beauty Skye presents. Visitors can reconnect with nature at black h, and enjoy the luxurious touches which will make any stay one to remember.
For lovers of food and nature, Lagan Glas is the ideal place to stay while on Skye. Slightly east of Dunvegan, on the Glendale Estate, the house will wow visitors with its views of the Outer Hebrides. Spot dolphins, basking sharks, otters, eagles, kestrels and whales by day, and then by night, enjoy the cuisine in the award-winning Three Chimneys Restaurant, just a short drive away. Recently refurbished, the house itself provides a comfortable, relaxing stay with everything you could need.
The Long House is a new, unique architect designed contemporary home, situated within large natural grounds in an elevated position overlooking the spectacular Duirinish Peninsula in North West Skye.
Sample the breath-taking views across Loch Pooltiel and out to the Outer Hebrides from Harlosh wood h’s floor-to-ceiling window. If that’s not enough, every bedroom comes complete with a sea view, while visitors can also make use of a wood-burning stove, underfloor heating and relax in the large, open-plan living space. It’s not unusual to spot otters, whales, seals and even sea eagles outside, making it the perfect destination for either an outdoor or indoor break.
With two cottages to choose from, Mint Croft is a lovely base for a stay on the Waternish Peninsula, particularly for those looking for a romantic escape. Combining modern and luxurious touches with antiques, local tweeds and the like, visitors get the best of both worlds. Visitors can also take in the stunning views of Loch Snizort too.
Located in Flodigarry near Staffin and so ideal for those looking to tackle the Trotternish Ridge, the cottage treats visitors to absolutely stunning sea views, where seals are often spotted. The property is spacious, even boasting a games room, and so perfect for longer stays and keeping the kids entertained. Due to its beautiful rural setting, there’s even a chance of catching a glimpse of the Northern Lights.
Many people choose to travel by car, in which case you should allow at least twelve hours if you are travelling from the south of England, or around eight hours from Manchester or Leeds.
Another option is to fly to Glasgow, Edinburgh or Inverness airport and use a hire car for your onward journey. It’s worth noting that to drive from Edinburgh to Skye, you’re looking at around five to six hours (235 miles of driving), while from Glasgow to Skye it takes approximately 5 hours (215 miles).
For a more restful journey from London, catch the Caledonian Sleeper – some accommodation is even ensuite now! There isn’t a railway on the island of Skye, but you can travel as far as Kyle of Lochalsh by local train from Inverness and from there you can catch a bus or take a taxi across the road bridge which connects Skye to the mainland.
If you have time, a more enchanting route is to catch the ferry from Mallaig, which acclimatises you to the slower pace you need to adopt to appreciate the island fully.
While getting around Scotland may need a little advanced planning, you can be confident of reaching every corner of the country with a wide range of available travel options. Car, including rental vehicles, bus and train provide connections to major towns, cities and villages, while more remote destinations are accessible via ferry and air.
If you’re looking to minimise your carbon footprint on the wonderful natural landscape, consider using an approved provider. The Green Tourism award is an official stamp of approval that marks out a business for its environmentally-friendly credentials, such as waste management, efficiency and biodiversity, so you know you’ll be doing what you can to support the natural world.
Some claim that Scottish food and drink is among the best in the world – and it’s not hard to see why!
Conveniently located for the freshest catches from the Atlantic and North Sea, Scotland prides itself on its fish dishes that are rich in variety and flavour, from salmon and trout to lobster and langoustines. But, with the country’s fertile landscape producing unrivalled ingredients and a long tradition of the finest farming, there’s much more to be found on Scottish menus, with plenty to cater for every dietary preference.
From Michelin-starred restaurants to traditional inns and pubs in sleepy villages, you’ll have an abundance of eateries to choose from in the Isle of Skye.
Whether you’re travelling to Skye alone, as a couple, a family or in a group, with or without a dog, there is certain to be a plentiful selection of accommodation from which to choose. In all regions you’ll encounter a friendly welcome, from cost-conscious campsites to exclusive hotels, and intimate wooden lodges to seaside static caravans.
But such is the popularity of the Isle of Skye as a holiday destination that you may be surprised how quickly accommodation is snapped up, especially in the summer months when visitor numbers are at their highest.
We advise that you book and research your Skye trip as soon as possible. In the summer months accommodation in Skye can be fully booked, especially in the Portree area, some of the popular cottages will book out for the whole summer. So book fast to avoid any disappointment.
Packing for a holiday in the Mediterranean in the height of summer is easy, but Skye’s climate is rather less predictable! With four seasons in a day, at any time of year, you’ll need to be fully prepared for plunging temperatures, sideways rain, strong winds or warm sunshine. Just because the rest of the UK is being baked to a cinder, don’t assume that the Highlands of Scotland are enjoying the same weather – you’ll probably have observed how the UK’s most northerly country escapes mention on national forecasts when other regions are experiencing climate extremes. Ensure you have plenty of layers, including windproof clothing, but also some lighter garments if warmer weather is forecast. Bear in mind that proper walking boots are preferable to Wellingtons (which are slippery), and umbrellas may be rendered useless by the wind.
