The Isle of Skye is one of the most popular places to visit in Scotland, with its breathtaking landscapes and plenty of things to see and do.
It’s often included in a road trip around the country, so how to get to the Isle of Skye can differ depending on where you’re coming from and going next. Whether you’re starting your journey from Edinburgh, Glasgow, Inverness, Fort William, Aberdeen, or even the Isle of Harris, we have you covered!
Here’s a comprehensive guide on how to get to the Isle of Skye, including options for driving, flying, and using public transportation.
Note that the driving routes, in particular, are only to the island itself, so the Skye Bridge and Kyleakin. If you’re continuing on to Portree or elsewhere then you’ll need to add additional time. Portree is around 1 hour from the bridge, depending on the time of year with traffic.
Driving to the Isle of Skye
From Edinburgh
I would generally recommend taking a day to stop on the way to the Isle of Skye because there are so many different things to see and do. You could consider stopping around Perth, Stirling, or Loch Lomond, or even closer in somewhere like Fort William or Spean Bridge.
- Distance: Approximately 235 miles (378 km)
- Duration: About 5-6 hours
Route 1 – Northwest via Loch Lomond and Glencoe
Take the M9 motorway towards Stirling, then join the A84 towards Callander. Continue on the A82 past Loch Lomond, and then take the A87, which leads directly to the Isle of Skye.
Things to Do on the Route:
- Stirling Castle: One of Scotland’s grandest castles, with stunning views and a rich history that includes battles and royalty.
- Doune Castle: A well-preserved medieval fortress that has been featured in several films and TV series, including Outlander and Monty Python and the Holy Grail.
- Callander: A charming town on the edge of the Trossachs National Park.
- Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park: A beautiful national park known for its stunning lochs, forests, and hills.
- The Drovers Inn: Located in Inverarnan. A historic inn dating back to 1705, with rustic charm and a unique atmosphere.
- Glencoe: A dramatic valley with a rich history, offering some of Scotland’s most spectacular scenery. Visit the Glencoe Visitor Centre, explore hiking trails, and learn about the infamous Glencoe Massacre of 1692.
- Nevis Range Mountain Resort: Near Fort William. An outdoor adventure center offering a range of activities. Ride the gondola for spectacular views, try mountain biking or skiing (in winter), and explore walking trails.
- Eilean Donan Castle: A picturesque castle situated on an island where three sea lochs meet.
Mallaig Ferry Option: From Fort William drive to Mallaig via the A82 and A830 (the “Road to the Isles”), then take the Caledonian MacBrayne (CalMac) ferry from Mallaig to Armadale on the Isle of Skye.
Route 2 – North then West Via Perth and Spean Bridge
Take the A9 north towards Perth and Inverness, then turn off at Dalwhinnie onto the A889, joining the A86 towards Spean Bridge. Follow the A82 to Invergarry, and finally take the A87 to Skye. This route offers a different scenic experience through the heart of the Highlands.
Things to Do on the Route:
- House of Bruar: A luxury shopping destination offering high-quality Scottish products, from clothing to gourmet food.
- Blair Castle and Gardens: A stunning historic castle with beautiful gardens and the only private army in Europe, the Atholl Highlanders. Tour the castle, explore the gardens, and learn about the castle’s history and its connections to the Jacobite Rebellion.
- Dalwhinnie Distillery: One of Scotland’s highest distilleries, producing fine single malt Scotch whisky.
- Laggan Wolftrax: A popular mountain biking destination with trails for all levels. Rent a bike and hit the trails, or enjoy a walk in the beautiful surrounding forest.
- Commando Memorial: Located at Spean Bridge. A monument dedicated to the soldiers of the British Commandos who trained in the area during World War II.
- Eilean Donan Castle: The classic shortbread tin castle situated on an island where three sea lochs meet.
From Glasgow
As with Edinburgh, if this is your first time in Scotland, I’d recommend stopping somewhere on the way to the Isle of Skye so that you can make the most of your trip and see other things along the way. Glencoe or Fort William make good stopping points.
- Distance: Approximately 216 miles (348 km)
- Duration: About 5-6 hours
Main Route: Through Glencoe and Fort William
Follow the A82 from Glasgow towards Fort William, then take the A87 through the Scottish Highlands to reach Skye.
Mallaig Ferry Option: Drive to Mallaig via the A82 and A830, then take the CalMac ferry from Mallaig to Armadale on the Isle of Skye.
Things to Do on the Route:
- Loch Lomond Shores: Stop in Balloch or Luss to take a cruise on Loch Lomond, or just admire the views.
- Falls of Falloch: A stunning waterfall located in a picturesque glen, just a short walk.
- The Green Welly Stop: A famous stopover for travellers, offering a café, shop, and fuel station.
- Rannoch Moor: A vast and wild expanse of moorland with stunning vistas.
- Glencoe: As above, one of the most beautiful drives in Scotland.
- Eilean Donan Castle: As above.
From Inverness
There are two different routes from Inverness, the north road and the south road. The north road has single track roads and I would usually advise drivers who are driving in Scotland for the first time to take the south road as it’s wider and with no single track parts.
- Distance: Approximately 110 miles (177 km)
- Duration: About 2.5 hours
Route 1 – South Road
Take the A82 towards Loch Ness, then the A887, and finally the A87 to Skye. This route offers stunning views of the famous Loch Ness and passes through scenic Highland landscapes.
Things to Do on the Route:
- Loch Ness Centre and Exhibition: Learn about the legend of Nessie and the natural history of Loch Ness at this informative exhibition in Drumnadrochit.
- Urquhart Castle: Explore the ruins of this iconic castle on the shores of Loch Ness, offering stunning views and a glimpse into Scotland’s medieval past.
- Cruise on Loch Ness: Take a boat tour to experience the beauty of Loch Ness from the water, with opportunities to spot Nessie.
- Invermoriston Falls: Enjoy a short walk to the picturesque falls and the old Telford bridge, surrounded by lush woodland.
- Glen Shiel: Enjoy the breathtaking landscapes of Glen Shiel, surrounded by towering peaks and expansive valleys. This glen offers numerous photo opportunities and a chance to experience the raw beauty of the Highlands. Look out for the famous wild goats of Glen Shiel, often seen grazing along the roadside.
- Battle of Glen Shiel: Visit the site of the historic 1719 battle, where British government forces defeated a Jacobite and Spanish army. The battle site is marked by signs, allowing you to learn about the conflict and its significance in Scottish history.
- Chocolates of Glen Shiel: Stop by this charming local chocolatier for a taste of delicious handmade chocolates crafted from high-quality ingredients. The shop offers a variety of flavours inspired by the surrounding landscape, perfect for a sweet treat or a special gift. Also their ginger cake in the cafe is amazing!
- Eilean Donan Castle: Stop by this postcard-perfect castle located at the meeting point of three sea lochs. Explore the castle’s history and enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and lochs.
Route 2 – North Road
Take the A9 north, then turn off onto the A835 towards Garve, followed by the A832 towards Achnasheen, and finally the A890 through Attadale to reach the A87 to Skye. This scenic route offers beautiful views through the Highlands and along Loch Carron.
Things to Do on the Route
- Rogie Falls: A beautiful set of waterfalls with a scenic forest trail, near Contin.
- Strathpeffer: Take a short detour to the Victorian spa village known for its charming architecture and rich history.
- Achnasheen: Stop by The Midge Bite cafe
- Attadale Gardens: Beautiful gardens featuring diverse plant species, sculptures, and a Japanese garden, set against the backdrop of the Highlands.
- Plockton: Detour to Plockton, one of the most picturesque villages in the Highlands.
From Fort William
There are two options when you travel from Fort William to the Isle of Skye, either by driving north towards Kyle of Lochalsh and over the Skye Bridge, or by taking the Road to the Isles west towards Mallaig, and catching a ferry to Armadale.
- Distance: Approximately 100 miles (160 km)
- Duration: About 2.5 hours (road route)
Route 1 – Fort William to the Skye Bridge
This route takes you along the A82 and A87 through the heart of the Highlands, passing stunning landscapes and historical sites before reaching the Skye Bridge at Kyle of Lochalsh.
Things to Do on the Route:
- Neptune’s Staircase: Located near Banavie, a short drive from Fort William. Watch the boats navigate a series of eight locks on the Caledonian Canal.
- Commando Memorial: A monument dedicated to the British Commandos who trained in the area during World War II with stunning views towards Ben Nevis.
- Glen Shiel: Visit the site where British forces clashed with Jacobites in 1719. Look out for the wild goats, and stop by Chocolates of Glenshiel for a sweet treat.
- Eilean Donan Castle: As above, one of Scotland’s most famous castles.
Optionally, detour to Plockton, or turn off at the Shiel Bridge to climb the Ratagan Pass and go down to Glenelg to catch the Original Skye Ferry.
Route 2: Road to the Isles and the Mallaig Ferry to Skye
The Road to the Isles (A830) is a spectacular drive that takes you through some of Scotland’s most beautiful coastal and Highland scenery, ending at the port town of Mallaig, where you can catch the ferry to Armadale on Skye.
Things to Do on the Route:
- Glenfinnan: Walk to the Glenfinnan Viaduct, and if you time it right see the Jacobite Steam Train pass over it. Note that parking is limited so you need to arrive early. You can also view the Glenfinnan Monument, a tribute to the Jacobite soldiers who fought in the 1745 uprising, set against the dramatic backdrop of Loch Shiel.
- Arisaig: A charming village known for its beautiful beaches and stunning views of the Small Isles.
- Silver Sands of Morar: A series of pristine white beaches with crystal-clear waters
- Mallaig: A small fishing port at the end of the Road to the Isles. Stop by the Mallaig Heritage Centre to learn more about the area, and The Bakehouse for delicious pastries, bread, and other baked goods.
From Aberdeen
Aberdeen to the Isle of Skye is a long drive, and not really one I would recommend doing in one if you’re travelling around Scotland, since there are lots of great places to stop along the way to spend the night.
All the routes detailed lead to Inverness, where you then have the choice of the north or routh roads as mentioned above.
- Distance: Approximately 220 miles (354 km)
- Duration: About 5.5-6 hours
Route 1 – Aberdeen to Inverness to Skye
Take the A96 to Inverness, then follow the A82 towards Loch Ness, the A887, and the A87 to Skye. Alternatively, take the North Road from Inverness, detailed above.
Things to Do on the Route:
- Inverurie: Hike the popular trails of Bennachie, offering panoramic views of the surrounding countryside or visit the East Aquhorthies Stone Circle, one of the best-preserved in Scotland, set in a peaceful rural location.
- Elgin Cathedral: Visit this historic ruin from the 13th century.
- Inverness: Wander along the River Ness in the town centre, and visit Culloden Battlefield just outside of the city.
- Other sites as detailed above.
Route 2 – Aberdeen to Isle of Skye via Huntly and Grantown-on-Spey
Take the A96, turning off at Huntly to the A95 through Dufftown and Granton-on-Spey, join the A9 just after Carrbridge towards Inverness, then choose the North or South Roads as detailed above.
Things to Do on the Route:
- Huntly Castle: Explore the impressive ruins of this historic castle, with its intricate stone carvings and fascinating history.
- Glenfiddich Distillery: Visit one of the most famous whisky distilleries in the world for a tour and tasting session.
- Aberlour Distillery: Discover the art of whisky-making with a tour of this well-regarded distillery, known for its smooth single malts.
- Speyside Cooperage Centre: Exhibition of how traditional barrels are made.
- Linn Falls: Take a short walk to these beautiful waterfalls, a peaceful spot surrounded by nature.
- Granton Museum: Learn about the history and heritage of the area, with exhibits on local culture and industry.
- Landmark Forest Adventure Park: A family-friendly attraction with a variety of activities, including treetop trails, roller coasters, and a maze.
- Old Packhorse Bridge: Visit the oldest stone bridge in the Highlands, dating back to the 18th century, with picturesque surroundings.
Route 3 – Aberdeen to Isle of Skye via Cairngorm National Park
There are several different routes tot ake through the Cairngorm National Park to Granton-on-Spey depending on what you want to see on the way. Check the things to do and plan your route accordingly.
Things to Do on the Route:
- Crathes Castle: Visit this enchanting 16th-century castle, known for its beautiful gardens and striking turrets. The castle is set amidst 240 hectares of woodlands and gardens.
- Falls of Feugh: Enjoy the scenic beauty of these waterfalls and watch for salmon leaping upstream during the spawning season.
- Balmoral Castle: The Scottish holiday home of the Royal Family, offering a glimpse into royal life and history. Visit the castle’s ballroom, explore the grounds and gardens.
- Braemar Castle: A 17th-century fortress with a distinctive star-shaped curtain wall, rich in history and legend.
- Anagach Woods: Enjoy a leisurely walk through these lovely woodlands, home to a variety of wildlife and scenic trails.
- Cairngorm Reindeer Centre: Meet the UK’s only free-ranging reindeer herd, with guided tours and the chance to feed the reindeer.
Flying to the Isle of Skye
The closest airport to the Isle of Skye is Inverness Airport (INV). Although the island itself doesn’t have an airport, Inverness Airport is well-connected to major cities in the UK and some in Europe. From Inverness, you can rent a car or use public transportation to reach Skye.
Public Transportation to the Isle of Skye
Many of these public transportation routes to the Isle of Skye will either take you to Kyle of Lochalsh, just over the bridge from Skye, or to Armadale on Skye.
From there, you’ll need to use further public transportation to get to where you need to be on the island. This is not always regular, is seasonal, and doesn’t always connect with trains and ferries, so it’s important to consider how you’ll get around once you reach the island, too.
The train from Inverness to Kyle of Lochalsh only runs a few times a day, so it’s also important to check when you’re taking transport to Inverness and want to switch to this train.
Some Citylink buses do go through to Uig so you can stop in Broadford or Portree, or other stops if necessary.
From Edinburgh
- Train: Take a train from Edinburgh Waverley to Inverness, then transfer to a train to Kyle of Lochalsh, or alternatively a bus (Scottish Citylink) to Skye.
- Bus: Scottish Citylink offers bus services from Edinburgh to Portree on the Isle of Skye, which tend. to go through Inverness, or you could go to Glasgow to change onto the bus to Uig.
From Glasgow
- Train: Take a train from Glasgow Queen Street to Mallaig, then catch the ferry to Armadale on Skye. Alternatively, take a train to Inverness and then a train to Kyle of Lochalsh or a bus to Skye.
- Bus: Scottish Citylink provides bus services from Glasgow to Uig.
From Inverness
- Train: You can take the train to Kyle of Lochalsh and, from there, take a bus onto Skye or even hire a car.
- Bus: Scottish Citylink offers regular bus services from Inverness to Portree, with stops in major towns along the way.
From Fort William
- Train: Take a train to Mallaig, then the ferry to Armadale.
- Bus: Scottish Citylink and local buses provide services from Fort William to Skye.
From Aberdeen
- Train: Take a train to Inverness, then take the train to Kyle of Lochalsh, or transfer to a bus to Skye.
- Bus: You can take a bus to Inverness, then a connecting bus to Skye.
Ferry Services to the Isle of Skye
Mallaig to Armadale Ferry
The Mallaig to Armadale ferry, operated by Caledonian MacBrayne (CalMac), is a popular and convenient way to reach the Isle of Skye. The ferry crossing takes about 30 minutes and operates year-round, with more frequent services during the summer months.
- Booking: It’s recommended to book your ferry tickets in advance, especially during peak tourist season and if you want to take a car on the ferry.
- Timetable: Check the CalMac website for the latest timetable and availability.
Glenelg to Kylerhea Ferry
For a unique experience, consider taking the Glenelg to Kylerhea ferry. This traditional turntable ferry operates from April to October and provides a scenic and historic route onto the Isle of Skye. The ferry crosses the narrow strait between Glenelg on the mainland and Kylerhea on Skye, offering spectacular views and a sense of adventure.
- Booking: No advance booking is required for this ferry, but it’s advisable to check they are running and the operating times on the Glenelg-Skye Ferry website.
- Timetable: Operates from April to October, with frequent crossings during the day, as and when needed.
Tarbert (Harris) to Uig Ferry
If you’re traveling from the Outer Hebrides, the ferry from Tarbert on the Isle of Harris to Uig on the Isle of Skye is a great option. Operated by CalMac, this ferry route connects the northern part of Skye to the Outer Hebrides.
- Booking: Advance booking is highly recommended, especially during the summer months.
- Timetable: Check the CalMac website for the latest timetable and availability.
Tips for a Smooth Journey
- Car Rental: Renting a car gives you the flexibility to explore Skye at your own pace. Book in advance, especially during peak tourist season.
- Ferry Services: The ferry from Mallaig to Armadale operates year-round but check the timetable and book your tickets in advance. The Glenelg to Kylerhea ferry is seasonal, so plan accordingly. The Tarbert to Uig ferry is also popular, so booking ahead is advised.
- Public Transport: Scottish Citylink buses are a reliable option, but always check the schedules and book tickets in advance to secure your spot.
- Check connections: Always check connections between various forms of transport, as they don’t always meet up.
No matter which mode of transport you choose, the journey to the Isle of Skye is filled with scenic views and charming stops along the way. Plan your trip to make the most of getting here too!
Sonja x