Isle of Skye Itinerary

The Most Epic 3 Day Isle of Skye Itinerary!

Planning a trip to the Isle of Skye and not sure where to start? With its dramatic landscapes, legendary hikes, and fairytale-like scenery, it’s no surprise that Skye is one of Scotland’s most popular destinations. But with so much to see- and a lot of it spread across the island- it can be tricky to plan the perfect trip. That’s where this 3 day Isle of Skye itinerary comes in!

This guide will help you make the most of your time on Skye, covering all the must-visit spots like the Old Man of Storr (my favourite place in the world), Quiraing, Fairy Pools, and Neist Point, plus a few hidden gems. You’ll also get insider tips on how to get around (spoiler: having a car makes ALL the difference), where to stay, and how to tackle the island’s best hikes.

Planning a bigger Scotland trip? If you’re coming from Edinburgh, check out my 3 Day Edinburgh Itinerary to explore Scotland’s historic capital before heading north. And if you’re coming to the Isle of Skye from Inverness like I did, my 2 Day Inverness Itinerary will help you experience the best of the Highlands before making your way to Skye.

Getting to Skye is part of the adventure, and this itinerary also covers the stunning drive from Inverness to the Isle of Skye, including stops at Loch Ness, Urquhart Castle, and Eilean Donan Castle along the way. This was my first time driving in the UK, and while it was nerve-wracking at first, it quickly became one of my favourite experiences of the trip. The scenery was so unreal that I kept pulling over just to take photos- every turn seemed to reveal another postcard-worthy view.

Once on the island, I spent three days hiking through some of the most incredible landscapes I’ve ever seen. Skye had been on my bucket list for years, and finally getting to experience it (especially with rare, perfect weather) was something I’ll never forget. Whether you’re hiking the Old Man of Storr, chasing waterfalls, or standing on the cliffs of Neist Point, this itinerary will help you plan an unforgettable trip to one of Scotland’s most magical destinations.

Let’s get into it!

isle of skye itinerary


When Should You Visit the Isle of Skye?

When you’re creating your Isle of Skye itinerary, the time of year to visit is an important thing to consider. The Isle of Skye is stunning year-round, but the best time to visit depends on what kind of experience you’re looking for. Spring and early summer (April to June) are ideal if you want fewer crowds, longer daylight hours, and beautiful landscapes in bloom. I visited in April and got incredibly lucky with completely sunny weather, with only a rare burst of rain on my third day. The temperatures were a mix of warm, mild days and chilly, windy evenings, so dressing in layers was key.

Summer (July and August) is peak seasons, meaning larger crowds, higher accommodation prices, and busier hiking trails. However, the long daylight hours make it perfect for squeezing in more adventures. If you’re planning a summer trip, booking accommodation in Skye early is essential, as places fill up fast and prices skyrocket.

Autumn (September to October) brings vibrant fall colours and fewer tourists, though the weather becomes more unpredictable. Winter (November to March) is the quietest time, but short days and harsh storms make hiking and exploring more challenging.

For most travellers, the best time to follow this Isle of Skye itinerary is April to early June, when you can enjoy decent weather, breathtaking scenery, and fewer crowds.


Where to Stay in Skye

Sligachan Hotel
The Sligachan Hotel- a cute little spot surrounded by the mountains

Finding accommodation in Skye can be really tricky, especially if you’re booking closer to your trip. My original plan was to stay in Portree, the island’s main hub, but when I went to finalize my booking I realized the hotel prices had skyrocketed even more. There are a limited number of accommodations on Skye, so once they book up you’re either camping or you’re out of luck. Staying in Portree was suddenly way out of budget, so I started looking for alternatives- and that’s when I found the Sligachan Hotel!

This ended up being a great change. The Sligachan Hotel is a small, charming spot in the middle of what feels like nowhere, but the area itself is quite popular due to the historic Sligachan Bridge and the walking trails leading into the surrounding mountains. It’s an amazing base if you love hiking or just want to feel immersed in Skye’s wild landscapes.

isle of sky accommodations
The rooms were SO cute, and the bathroom was huge!

The hotel itself was nice- my room was huge, modern, and well-equipped, which was a welcome surprise after staying in some smaller places earlier in my trip. The staff was fairly friendly, and there is a restaurant and a pub in the hotel itself so you’re not completely stranded when it comes to food. I didn’t head to the pub, but I did have dinner one night in the restaurant. The food was really good, but I was the only one dining at 6pm and as a solo traveler, that made me feel VERY awkward. Still, the location, comfort, and incredible views right outside the hotel made it a fantastic place to stay while following this Isle of Skye itinerary.

Getting Around the Isle of Skye

The best way to experience the Isle of Skye is by renting a car. Skye is a remote and rugged island, and while public transportation exists, it’s limited and not ideal for exploring at your own pace. Having a car gives you the freedom to stop at breathtaking viewpoints, visit hidden gems, and travel on your own schedule- which is essential when so many of Skye’s best sights are spread out.

While there are buses that run between some of the island’s major spots, service is infrequent and to be perfectly honest, I barely saw the buses go by. The bus also won’t get you to many of the must-see locations like Neist Point, the Fairy Glen, or Brothers’ Point. If you don’t want to drive, the only other way I’d recommend visiting Skye is by booking a tour from Edinburgh, Glasgow, or Inverness. Several companies offer multi-day Isle of Skye tours that include stops at key locations, but keep in mind you’ll have less flexibility compared to driving yourself.

If you’re up for a road trip, renting a car is by far the best way to explore Skye, allowing you to fully experience the island’s wild beauty at your own pace. As a side note, if you’re worried about gas- I had to fill up before I left Inverness and I still had a solid amount left when I returned the car. Obviously this will all depend on where you go and what car you get, but I found gas prices were very similar to the prices we have here in Ontario, so just keep that in mind.

Driving from Inverness to the Isle of Skye- a Must-Do!

After picking up my rental from the Enterprise in Inverness, I set out on what would become one of the most stunning drives of my life. Renting a car in Inverness was the best choice for me- not only because it’s a major city with plenty of rental options, but because I wanted the flexibility to explore on my own terms.

While you can technically take a train to Kyle of Lochalsh (the closest station to Skye) and rent a car from there, the process of booking from the smaller rental agencies was more complicated. Enterprise was an easy, familiar option, and I had an excellent experience. The guys at the rental desk were super friendly, the price was great, and to top if all off they upgraded me to a brand-new SUV that had just arrived off the truck an hour before (potentially a risky move on their end since I had never driven in the UK lol).

As much as I was excited to hit the road, I was also hyper-aware that this way my first time driving in the UK. I’m not a nervous driver at home, but adjusting to the left side of the road and right-hand drive while navigating unfamiliar routes was something I wanted to ease into. That’s why I chose to take the A82 scenic route instead of the highway. It took a little longer but it was a simple two-way road, meaning i didn’t have to worry about complicated junctions or high-speed traffic. Plus, the route took me past some of the most beautiful sights in the Scottish Highlands, making it the perfect balance of practical and picturesque.

Need more convincing? Here are some of the amazing places I stopped at along the drive to the Isle of Skye:

Loch Ness & Urquhart Castle

Inverness
Urquhart Castle overlooking Loch Ness

No trip through the Scottish Highlands is complete without a stop at Loch Ness- one of the most legendary bodies of water in the world. Driving along the A82, I caught my first glimpse of its deep, dark waters, stretching endlessly into the misty hills. Even on a sunny day, there was something eerie about it. And whether you believe in Nessie or not, the loch has an undeniable mystique.

Just a little further along the road sits Urquhart Castle, perched dramatically on the water’s edge. Dating back to the 13th century, this medieval stronghold played a key role in Scotland’s wars for independence and remains one of the most photographed spots in the Highlands. I arrived shortly after it opened, and to my surprise, there was hardly anyone there! It made exploring the ruins even more immersive.

Before heading outside, I highly recommend watching the historical video inside the visitor centre. It gives a great overview of the castle’s history, from its medieval battles to its eventual destruction. Walking through the Great Tower, old prison cells, and crumbling walls with that knowledge made the experience even more powerful. The views over Loch Ness from the castle ruins were absolutely stunning!

Hidden Gems Along the Way

traveling to isle of skye
The whole drive looked like this- absolutely incredible

One of the best things about driving through the Scottish Highlands is the number of scenic pull-off spots along the way. Every few minutes, I passed another small layby where people had stopped to take photos, and while I hadn’t planned on pulling over I decided to trust my gut and pick one at random. I’m so glad that I did!

As I pulled in, a couple was just leaving and within seconds I had the place all to myself. I walked down to the water and was immediately hit with one of those “this doesn’t even look real” moments. The scene in front of me was like something out of a dream- a stunning loch surrounded by massive, towering mountains, the water perfectly still, reflecting the bluest sky I’d ever seen. There were hardly any clouds, just endless shades of blue stretching out in every direction.

driving to the isle of skye

I stood there for a while just soaking it all in, listening to nothing but the wind and the occasional bird call. It was the kind of place that makes you stop and appreciate where you are. Could I tell you where exactly I stopped? Not a chance. But it felt like one of those meant-to-be moments that only happens when you slow down and enjoy what’s in front of you.

Eilean Donan Castle

Eilean Donan Castle
Eilean Donan Castle from the parking lot

As I continued my drive toward the Isle of Skye, I reached Eilean Donan Castle, one of the most iconic and photographed castles in Scotland. Sitting at the meeting point of three lochs, surrounded by mountains, it looked like something out of a fairytale.

By the time I arrived, it was fairly busy, but it was still easy to find quiet spots along the water to take in the incredible views. The castle itself is a 20th-century restoration, but stepping inside I got a glimpse into medieval Highland life. The Great Hall, with its old wooden beams and historic weapons, was a highlight alongside the kitchen exhibit. It gave a cool insight into how people lived centuries ago.

Even though it’s a popular stop, Eilean Donan is absolutely worth visiting. After one last look at the castle, I got back on the road. Just over an hour later, I crossed the Skye Bridge and finally arrived on the Isle of Skye, ready for the next adventure and the start of my Isle of Skye itinerary.


Day 1: Exploring the Isle of Skye’s Most Iconic Landscapes

If you followed the scenic drive from Inverness to the Isle of Skye, you likely arrived the evening before, giving you a full day to explore without worrying about the long journey in. If you get to Sligachan early the day before, you can take advantage of the beautiful walking trails surrounding the area before heading out to explore the rest of the island. With dramatic mountains towering over the Sligachan Bridge, the landscape alone feels like a scene from a fantasy novel- a perfect introduction to the beauty of Skye.

Now, it’s time to start Day 1 of this Isle of Skye itinerary, packed with some of the most breathtaking scenery you’ll find anywhere in Scotland.

Morning: The Old Man of Storr Hike

The best way to kick off Day 1 of this Isle of Skye itinerary is with one of the most famous and rewarding hikes in Scotland (and my favourite spot in Scotland)- the Old Man of Storr. This towering rock formation is one of the island’s most recognizable landmarks, and the views from the top are absolutely unreal.

Getting to the Old Man of Storr

From Sligachan, it’s about a 30-minute drive to the Old Man of Storr car park, and if you’re staying in Portree, it’s even shorter (just 15 minutes!) The parking lot fills up really quickly, and while I was lucky enough to get a spot it was only because I arrived first thing in the morning.

Choosing Your Trail: Easy vs Hard Route

When you begin the hike, you’ll quickly notice that there are two paths to take- one is steeper and more direct, while the other is a longer, more gradual ascent. The two paths meet up eventually to make the final climb to the top, but which path you choose first is up to you. Since I wanted to actually enjoy my surroundings without burning out too quickly, I took the easier route (although “easy” is definitely relative no matter what your fitness level is because this trail was still a serious workout).

The hike is about 4.5km (2.8 miles) round trip and should take about 45 minutes to 1 hour to reach the top, depending on your pace and how many times you stop for photos along the way. Coming back down is much quicker, typically 30 to 40 minutes, but be prepared for some uneven, rocky terrain in certain spots. In total, expect to spend 1.5 to 2.5 hours on the hike, allowing extra time for breaks, photos, and just soaking in the views.

Isle of skye in April
The perfect weather for the most perfect views!

As I climbed higher, I was completely blown away by the scenery. The trail winds up through rolling green hills, and before you even reach the top you’ll have unbelievable panoramic views of the mountains, lochs, and the ocean in the distance. The higher I climbed, the more the Isle of Skye stretched out before me, and I couldn’t believe how lucky I was to witness it in such perfect weather.

Adding to the iconic Scotland experience, there were sheep just casually hanging out along the trail, completely unfazed by hikers. Seeing them grazing against the dramatic backdrop of the jagged rock formations and vast Highlands landscape that made the whole thing feel even more surreal.

The Climb: Pushing Through to the Top

Old Man of Storr Hike
Close up of the Old Man of Storr

I’m not going to lie- there were quite a few moments where I thought about giving up. The trail is steep in sections, and every time I stopped for a break I felt like the top was never getting any closer. But every time I turned around, the view had somehow gotten even better, and that alone kept me going.

And then, after what felt like forever (but was probably close to an hour) I finally made it.

Isle of Skye Itinerary
The best view I’ve seen in my life

Standing at the base of the towering rock formations, with the entire Isle of Skye stretching out in every direction, was one of the most incredible feelings of my entire trip. The Old Man of Storr itself is even more imposing up close, rising like a massive stone guardian over the landscape. If you continue along the trail past the Old Man, there’s a lookout point you can climb up to to get the most amazing view of the entire area.

No matter how tough the climb was, it was absolutely worth every step. When I got to the top, I just sat there reflecting on how proud of myself I was and making a mental note that I absolutely had to come back and experience this again. This is hands down one of the best hikes on the Isle of Skye, and a must-do for anyone visiting the island.

Midday: Lealt Falls, Kilt Rock, and Mealt Falls

After the Old Man of Storr hike, the next few stops on this Isle of Skye itinerary are much more relaxed, giving you a chance to soak in some quick but stunning viewpoints along the way. These locations are all just off the A855, making them super easy to reach.

Lealt Falls- An Underrated Gem

About 10 minutes north of Storr, you’ll come across Lealt Falls, a lesser-known but seriously impressive waterfall. This was way more rewarding than I expected, and probably my favourite of the these next stops.

Unlike Kilt Rock, which is just a viewing platform, Lealt Falls has a short trail leading down to better viewpoints, making it feel like more of an experience. The falls themselves are powerful and multi-tiered, cascading through a dramatic gorge before reaching the sea. Since it’s not as popular, the crowds here were minimal, and I had a chance to really take in the scenery without being surrounded by people.

If you have time to pick just one waterfall stop, I’d honestly recommend Lealt Falls over the others. The combination of the short trail, dramatic cliffs, and lack of crowds make this one stand out.

Kilt Rock & Mealt Falls

A few minutes north of Lealt Falls is Kilt Rock & Mealt Falls, one of the most famous photo spots on Skye. If you’ve ever seen pictures of the Isle of Skye, chances are you’ve seen this one- a waterfall dropping straight off a cliff into the ocean below, backed by basalt rock formations that look like the pleats of a kilt.

It’s definitely a cool sight, but I won’t lie… it felt a little underwhelming compared to the hype. The viewing platform is right by the parking lot, so there’s no effort required to see it. But because of that, it’s one of the busiest stops on the island. The parking lot is at least twice the size of the one at Old Man of Storr, and it was packed when I got there.

I stood at the platform, took in the view, snapped a few photos, and then… that was kind of it. Worth stopping for? Absolutely. And the chill vibe of this place makes it a great stop to rest and eat a packed lunch after your big hike up the Old Man of Storr. But if you’re expecting a dramatic, immersive experience, there are way better sights to see throughout the Isle of Skye.

Afternoon: The Quiraing

Quiraing

If there’s one place that truly captures the otherworldly landscapes of the Isle of Skye, it’s The Quiraing. This dramatic, landslide-formed area in the Trotternish Ridge looks like something straight out of a fantasy novel, with towering cliffs, bizarre rock formations, and rolling green hills stretching endlessly into the distance. It’s easily one of the most famous hikes in Scotland, drawing photographers, adventurers, and anyone looking to experience some of the best scenery the Scottish Highlands have to offer.

That said, this is a big hike. If you’ve already done the Old Man of Storr hike in the morning, tackling the full Quiraing loop might be a bit much for one day. If you really want to do both hikes properly, you might consider switching this to a different day and replacing it with a lighter stop. However, if you’re up for the challenge, here’s what to expect:

Two Ways to Experience The Quiraing

The Quiraing offers two main options for visitors:

1. The Full Quiraing Loop Hike (Challenging- 2.5 to 3.5 hours)
-Distance: ~6.8 km (4.2 miles)
-Time Needed: 2.5 to 3.5 hours
-Difficulty Level: Moderate to difficult (rocky terrain, steep sections, and potentially muddy conditions)

This is the ultimate way to experience the Quiraing, but it’s also the most demanding. The trail winds through rock formations like The Needle, The Table, and The prison, each with its own unique and dramatic features. The views along this route are insane, offering panoramic vistas of the Isle of Skye, with rolling hills and jagged cliffs stretching into the distance.

However, the trail can be challenging, especially if the weather is wet (which, let’s be honest, is very possible in Scotland.) Some sections are steep and slippery, so good hiking boots are a must. If you’re doing this hike after already tackling the Old Man of Storr, make sure you have plenty of energy and time left in the day.

2. The Short Walk from the Car Park (Easy- 20 to 30 minutes)
-Distance: ~1km (0.6 miles) round trip
-Time Needed: 20-30 minutes
-Difficulty Level: Easy

If you want to experience the Quiraing without committing to the full hike, there’s a short, easy walk from the car park that still offers incredible views. Within 10-15 minutes of walking, you’ll reach a fantastic viewpoint, allowing you to take in the rugged cliffs, winding trails, and dramatic scenery without having to do a full trek.

For those already tired from the Old Man of Storr, this is a great way to experience the Quiraing without overexerting yourself. Even from this shorter route, you’ll see why this place is one of the most popular landscapes in Scotland.

The Quiraing is a landslip, meaning the entire area is still shifting over time, making it one of the only active landslides in the UK. This constant movement has created the unique, jagged formations that give the area its surreal, otherworldly look.

What makes it even more special is the unobstructed, wide-open views of the Trotternish Peninsula, the coastline of Skye, and even the distant Outer Hebrides on a clear day. It’s one of the most breathtaking places on the Isle of Skye, and no matter which hike you choose, you’re guaranteed to be blown away by the scenery.

Evening: Sunset at Sligachan

Sligachan bridge
Don’t forget to dip your face in the river for eternal beauty!

After a full day of exploring some of the Isle of Skye’s most breathtaking landscapes, there’s no better way to wind down than watching the sunset at Sligachan. Whether you’re staying at the Sligachan Hotel like I recommend or just passing through, this spot offers unreal views of the Cuillin Mountains bathed in golden light, making it the perfect last stop of the day.

The Sligachan Bridge, with its historic stone arches spanning the River Sligachan, has been a key crossing point on Skye since the early 19th century. But what makes this spot truly special is the legend tied to its waters. According to Scottish folklore, the river beneath the bridge grants eternal beauty to those who dip their face into it. The tale comes from Scáthach, a legendary warrior woman, whose daughter sought the help of the fairy folk to save her mother from battle. The fairies told her to submerge her face in the river, gifting her with strength and beauty forever. Whether you believe in the legend or not, it’s a fun tradition- although the water is absolutely freezing!

how to solo travel the isle of skye
On one of the many trails near the bridge in Sligachan

Beyond the bridge, Sligachan is surrounded by rugged hiking trails, making it a hub for mountaineers heading into the Cuillin Mountains. A bronze statue of two climbers and a dog stands nearby, honouring those who first explored this challenging terrain. If you have time, a short walk along the river offers even more spectacular views, with the mountains reflecting in the water.

Even after seeing some of the Isle of Skye’s most iconic sights, Sligachan feels like one of the most magical spots on the island. As the sky turns shades of pink and orange, casting an unreal glow over the Cuillins, it’s a perfect place to pause, take in the scenery, and reflect on an unforgettable day.

Day 2: Chasing Waterfalls, Whisky, and Fairytale Landscapes

After an incredible first day packed with hiking and jaw-dropping landscapes, Day 2 of this Isle of Sky itinerary is all about exploring magical pools, sipping on Scottish whisky, and ending the day at one of the most breathtaking coastal viewpoints in Scotland.

Morning: The Fairy Pools

Fairy pools

No trip to the Isle of Skye is complete without a visit to the Fairy Pools. These crystal-clear blue pools and waterfalls sit at the foot of the Cuillin Mountains, creating one of the most photographed and enchanting spots in Scotland. Whether you’re brave enough for a swim or just here to admire the scenery, this is an unforgettable place to start the day.

From Sligachan, it’s about a 30-minute drive to the Fairy Pools parking area, located near Glenbrittle. The hike to the pools is relatively easy, covering around 2.4 km (1.5 miles) round trip, but be prepared for some uneven terrain and possible muddy conditions if it’s been raining. The pools are stunning in any weather, but if the sun is shining, you’ll see the vivid blues and greens of the water shimmering against the dark rocks, making it look even more magical.

You can choose to simply admire the pools from the trail, or if you’re feeling adventurous, take a dip in the freezing water- it’s not for the faint of heart, but it’s an experience you’ll never forget!

Midday: Talisker Distillery

Talisker Distillery

After a refreshing morning at the Fairy Pools, a stop at Talisker Distillery is the perfect way to warm up and experience a piece of Scotland’s whisky heritage. Located just 20 minutes away, Talisker is the oldest working distillery on the Isle of Skye, producing world-famous whisky since 1830.

As soon as I arrived, the rich, smoky aroma filled the air, setting the scene for an immersive tour. Walking through the process- from malting and mashing to fermentation and distillation- gave me a real appreciation for the craft. The coastal climate of Skye plays a huge role in the whisky’s bold, peaty character, adding hints of salt and spice that make Talisker so unique.

Of course, no visit is complete without a tasting session, where I got to try the signature Talisker 10-Year-Old while looking out toward Loch Harport. If you’re driving, you can take advantage of their “driver’s dram” policy, bringing your sample to enjoy later. Whether you’re a whisky lover or just curious, Talisker is an essential stop on any Isle of Skye itinerary!

Afternoon: The Fairy Glen

fairy glen
Such a cool place, especially if you get lucky and there aren’t too many people!

Next, we head north to one of Skye’s most unique and whimsical landscapes, the Fairy Glen. Located near Uig, this spot looks like something straight out of a fantasy novel, with small green hills, hidden ponds, and winding paths that make it feel like a miniature version of the Scottish Highlands.

The drive from Talisker to the Fairy Glen takes about 1 hour, but the change in scenery is dramatic. Unlike the rugged, dramatic cliffs of Day 1, this area feels softer, greener, and completely surreal. The small, rounded hills were formed by ancient landslides, creating a landscape that looks like it was designed for mythical creatures. It’s easy to see why this place is called the Fairy Glen- it genuinely feels like a place where fairies could live.

There’s no official hiking trail here, so you’re free to wander and explore at your own pace. One of the most popular spots is Castle Ewen, a rocky outcrop that looks like the ruins of a small castle. Climbing to the top offers beautiful panoramic views of the entire glen.

Evening: Neist Point at Sunset

Neist point

To wrap up Day 2 of this Isle of Skye itinerary, we’re heading west to Neist Point, one of the most breathtaking coastal viewpoints in Scotland. Located on the Duirinish Peninsula, this is one of the best places on Skye to watch the sunset, with dramatic cliffs dropping into the Atlantic Ocean and a picturesque lighthouse sitting at the edge of the world.

From the Fairy Glen, the drive to Neist Point takes about 45 minutes, winding through some of Skye’s most remote and beautiful landscapes. Once you arrive, there’s a short but steep hike down to the lighthouse. The round-trip walk is about 2.2 km (1.4 miles) and takes around 45 minutes to an hour, but you’ll want to give yourself extra time to take in the views.

Standing on the cliffs at Neist Point, watching the waves crash against the rocks far below, is one of those unforgettable travel moments. Whether you’re here for photography, wildlife spotting (you might even see dolphins or whales!) or simply taking in the raw beauty of the Scottish coast, this is the perfect way to end day 2 of this Isle of Skye itinerary!

Day 3: Castles, Coastal Hikes, and a Farewell to Skye

For the final day of this Isle of Skye itinerary, we’re driving into Skye’s rich history, dramatic coastline, and hidden gems before heading back to the mainland. Today’s itinerary includes a visit to Dunvegan Castle, a stunning coastal hike at Brother’s Point, and a scenic drive back with plenty of opportunities to soak in the last views of this incredible island. If you’ve followed this Isle of Skye Itinerary so far, today will be the perfect mix of history and scenery to round out your adventure!

Morning: Dunvegan Castle & Gardens

Dunvegan Castle
Find this picture spot down one of the trails in the gardens across from the castle!

We’re starting the day with a visit to Dunvegan Castle, the ancestral home of Clan MacLeod and one of the most historic places on the Isle of Skye. Located about 30 minutes from Sligachan, this beautifully preserved castle has been continuously inhabited for over 800 years, making it one of the oldest lived-in castles in Scotland.

The castle itself is filled with fascinating artifacts, including clan treasures, historic portraits, and medieval weapons. One of the most famous relics is the Fairy Flag, a legendary banner said to have magical powers that have helped the MacLeods in battle. Walking through the grand halls and hearing the stories of the clan’s past really brings the history of Skye to life.

Beyond the castle, the gardens are just as impressive. With winding pathways, waterfalls, and beautifully maintained flowerbeds, it’s easy to see why this is one of the best castle visits in the Scottish Highlands. If the weather is nice, you can even take a boat tour to see the resident seal colony that lives in the waters around the castle.

Visiting Dunvegan Castle is an essential part of any Isle of Skye itinerary, offering a glimpse into the island’s deep-rooted history while being surrounded by its breathtaking natural beauty!

Midday: Brother’s Point

After exploring Dunvegan Castle, we’ll make our way to Brother’s Point, one of the most underrated hikes on the Isle of Skye. Located on the Trotternish Peninsula, this headland offers a dramatic mix of cliffs, ocean views, and rolling green landscapes, without the heavy crowds you’ll find at other famous stops. This was one of my favourite spots, and if you get lucky and get to do this hike on a sunny day, its absolutely spectacular.

what to do on the isle of skye
I could post a million pictures of this hike. This is unedited- the colours were really this bright!

The trail starts from a small, easy-to-miss parking area off the A855, about 40 minutes from Dunvegan. The hike itself is moderate- a lot easier going down than back up. It’s around 3.5 km (2.2 miles) round trip, and takes about 1.5 to 2 hours depending on how many stops you take to enjoy the views. The path follows a rugged coastal route, leading you past sheep-dotted meadows, rocky outcrops, and jaw-dropping vistas over the Atlantic.

brothers point hike

At the end of the hike, you’ll reach a stunning viewpoint overlooking the cliffs, where you can sit and take in the beauty of Skye one last time. The raw, untouched nature of this spot makes it feel truly special, and it’s the perfect place to reflect on your journey across the island.

If you’re following this Isle of Skye itinerary, this is one of the best ways to experience Skye’s coastline without the crowds, and it’s an excellent final hike before heading back to the mainland!

Afternoon: Saying Goodbye to Skye

As you drive off the island, crossing the Skye Bridge and watching the rugged peaks fade into the distance, you’ll realize just how special this place is. Whether you spent time hiking the legendary trails, exploring castles, or simply taking in the otherworldly landscapes, the Isle of Skye leaves an unforgettable mark on anyone who visits.

This 3-day Isle of Skye Itinerary captures some of the best sights, hikes, and history the island has to offer, but there’s always more to explore. Skye is the kind of place that calls you back, and after experiencing its beauty firsthand, I wouldn’t be surprised if I find myself here again one day soon!


The Isle of Skye is one of the most incredible places to visit in Scotland, filled with dramatic landscapes, rich history, and unforgettable adventures. Whether you’ve hiked the Old Man of Storr, explored the fairy-tale landscapes of the Fairy Glen, or watched the sun set at Neist Point, this Isle of Skye itinerary has given you a taste of what makes this island so magical.

From rugged coastal hikes to ancient castles and mystical waterfalls, Skye offers something for every kind of traveler. Whether you’re exploring on a road trip, joining one of the many Isle of Skye tours from Edinburgh or Glasgow, or setting off on a solo adventure, this island is sure to leave you in awe.

Have you been to the Isle of Skye? Or are you planning your first visit? Let me know in the comments below, and don’t forget to check out my other Scotland travel guides for more tips on planning your trip!

FOLLOW ME: Pinterest | Instagram | Tiktok | Twitter

Comments (1)

Leave a comment

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Prev Post

Budget spring break destinations

15 Budget Spring Break Destinations That Won't Break the Bank!

February 10, 2025

Next Post

safest solo travel destinations

The 20 Safest Solo Travel Destinations For Your Next Adventure!

February 17, 2025