The Isle of Skye is made up of a series of rugged peninsulas, each with its own unique personality, scenery, and points of interest.
Understanding the island’s layout is essential for visitors when planning what to do and where to stay in the Isle of Skye, especially considering the road network that also makes Skye a unique driving experience!
An Overview of Skye’s Geography
The island of Skye has been said to resemble a solitary wing, a hand, or even a starfish, with peninsulas stretching out from its core.
Each area in Skye is laced with single-track roads, many of which end in a dead end at the coast or remote trailheads. For visitors, exploring each peninsula requires more time than you might think, as winding roads and occasional traffic at passing places add to the journey. It’s definitely not as simple as driving “around” the island!
If you plan to drive from one end of Skye to the other, be prepared: the journey can take up to 2 hours, from Sleat in the south to the Trotternish Peninsula in the north, assuming favourable conditions.
The Red and Black Cuillin Hills slice Skye almost in half, creating a natural boundary between the north and south of the island and offering some of the most dramatic landscapes in the UK.
There are so many different places to stay all over the Isle of Skye, from remote and isolated houses to accommodation within small villages and towns.
You can read more about tips for booking accommodation in Skye here, and then use the below information about areas to help you plan where is best for you.
Let’s explore each of Skye’s main peninsulas and areas, what they’re known for, things to see and do on each, and where to stay.
This is by no means an exhaustive list of options for places to eat or stay in Skye, but a starting point for you to understand the island a bit more, and book what works for you.
1. Trotternish Peninsula
The northernmost peninsula, Trotternish, is a rugged area known for its iconic, otherworldly landscapes. Formed by ancient landslides, Trotternish is home to some of Skye’s most famous geological features.
It is the only peninsula in Skye where it is possible to do a loop around the whole thing, starting from Portree and heading north towards Staffin, or northwest towards Uig.
Top Things to Do
- The Old Man of Storr: A towering rock formation that’s visible for miles. The hike up to it offers incredible views but is one of the most popular in Skye. Arrive early or late to get a carpark in the busy season.
- Quiraing: A vast, landslip-formed landscape with walking paths that give panoramic views over the peninsula. You can do a loop walk to explore more of it, just do a small section, or take in the views near the carpark. Another of Skye’s most popular things to do.
- Kilt Rock and Mealt Falls: A cliff resembling a pleated kilt, with a dramatic waterfall that plunges into the sea below.
- Staffin Beach: Known for dinosaur footprints that can be seen at low tide.
- Lealt Falls: Waterfalls plunging down a tree-lined gorge. Be sure to walk down to the bottom waterfall, although it’s very steep coming back up again.
- Skye Museum of Island Life: Learn more about the history of Skye in this preserved township of thatched cottages.
Where to Stay
There are lots of small villages and settlements dotted around Trotternish, as well as more remote places to stay. Remember to consider whether you want to be closer to amenities, or more isolated. This is also by no means an exhaustive list!
Uig
Located on the northern coast, and the site of the ferry port for trips to the Outer Hebrides. Stay at Uig Hotel, Cowshed Boutique Bunkhouse, or traditional B&Bs. Dining options include Uig Hotel Restaurant, known for its seafood, and The Ferry Inn for hearty meals.
Staffin
Staffin is a charming village on the Trotternish Peninsula near the Quiraing. It’s surrounded by dramatic landscapes and rich history. Accommodations include guesthouses and self-catering cottages. Dining options include Columba 1400 Café, The Hungry Gull, and the curries and other takeaway items from Mackenzie Stores.
Other areas to consider
- Kilmaluag: Near the very top of the peninsula
- Flodigarry: A picturesque settlement just north of Staffin, home to the Flodigarry Hotel, Dun Flodigarry Hostel, and other options
- Kilmuir: Close to the Skye Museum of Island Life, and where Bonnie Prince Charlie landed on Skye after his boat trip across the sea with Flora MacDonald, and where she is now buried.
2. Portree and Central Skye
Portree is the capital of Skye, but it is still a small village compared to other places in Scotland, with just 2000 people living there.
The iconic view of the harbour and it’s colourful buildings is one of the famous in Skye.
Top Things to Do
- Shops: Walk around the village and browse the many independent shops
- Eateries: Grab a bite to eat at one of the many restaurants and cafes from small cafes like Birch, or Cafe Arriba, pubs like the Isles Inn and 1820, or restaurants like Dulse & Brose and Scorrybreac.
- Walks: Walk up to “The Lump” or around the trails at Scorrybreac
Where to Stay
Portree
In terms of accommodation, we’re talking about everything in Portree from hostels to high class hotels, B&Bs and self-catering options.
Portree has the most facilities and amenities of any location on Skye, so if you want to be within walking distance of a variety of places to eat, takeaways, and shops then this is a great place to stay.
However, this also means that it can be very busy in the peak season and we would recommend making reservations for evening meals or showing up early if the place doesn’t do reservations.
In the off-season it has the most number of eateries still open, while many others around the island close for a break at some point.
This is the best place to stay if you’re planning to get around by public transport or join group tours.
Other areas to consider
- Skeabost: Just 15 minutes from Portree and home to the Skeabost House Hotel, a historic Victorian hotel and restaurant.
- Edinbane: Halfway between Portree and Dunvegan. It has two great eateries, the Edinbane Inn, and the Edinbane Lodge, Island at the Edge where you can do farm tours and boat tours and shop for woollen products, and Edinbane pottery.
- The Braes: Located just south of Portree with beautiful views towards the isle of Raasay.
3. Waternish Peninsula
Waternish offers a peaceful escape with its sweeping views over the Minch to the Outer Hebrides. Known for its sunsets and cosy communities, Waternish is ideal for visitors looking for tranquility and heritage.
Top Things to Do
- Trumpan Church: The haunting ruins of this old church carry a tragic history and offer scenic views of the coastline.
- Skyeskyns: A traditional sheepskin tannery, the only one in Scotland, where you can learn about the sheepskin production process and browse handcrafted items.
- Stein Village: A small, picturesque village with a stoney beach known for its eateries, the Stein Inn, the oldest pub in Skye, and Loch Bay, a Michelin Star restaurant.
- Donnie’s Tablet Shed: An honesty box with delicious tablet and other local treats!
- The Fairy Bridge: An early 19th century single arch bridge. It’s said to be where the fairy wife of the chief of Clan MacLeod left their son wrapped in the silken Fairy Flag.
- Skiō Pottery: You can visit the shop and honesty box to see/buy this unique pottery
Where to Stay
Stein
Offers charming accommodation like self catering houses and accommodation at the Stein Inn.
Remote Stays
Waternish has several places that offer remote B&B or self catering accommodation with stunning views, and is worth considering if you’re looking of a quieter area of the island
4. Dunvegan
Dunvegan is best known for its historic castle and rich cultural history, offering visitors a mix of nature, history, and local charm. It’s between the Waternish and Duirinish Peninsulas, which is why I’ve given it its own section!
I love this area of Skye as it has lots of amenities like local places to shop for food, as well as plenty of eateries, but still feels a bit remote, and is in a location that means you can reach a lot of places without too much of a drive. As well as being close to Waternish with all of the things to do, it’s also close to Duirinish, known for Neist Point, and 30 minutes drive to both Portree and Carbost.
Top Things to Do
- Dunvegan Castle & Gardens: The ancestral home of Clan MacLeod, featuring impressive gardens and the legendary Fairy Flag.
- Coral Beach: A stunning white-sand beach made of crushed coral and shells, with a turquoise sea backdrop.
- Dunvegan Bakery: The oldest bakery on Skye, serving fresh-baked goods and traditional Scottish treats.
- Giant MacAskill Museum: A quirky museum dedicated to Angus MacAskill, the world’s tallest true giant.
- Boat Trips to See Seals: Tours from Dunvegan Castle offer close-up views of one of Skye’s resident seal colonies.
- MacLeods Tables: Dunvegan looks over to two curiously flat-topped mountains. You can walk them by going to the Duirinish Peninsula (see below) or admire them from afar!
Where to Stay
Dunvegan
Dunvegan is a great place to stay if you want to be within walking distance of lots of choices for places to eat, and close to some of the busy sites so that you can visit early or late, without travelling far from your accommodation.
Consider places like Atholl House, a historic manse where there are cosy guest rooms but also a shared lounge with a log burner and games, the perfect place to enjoy a drink from their Scottish Drinks list, an included breakfast and even optional evening meals.
The Dunvegan also has rooms alongside their famed fire restaurant, where everything is cooked over charcoal grills and a wood oven.
There are also lots of B&B’s and other self catering options, and Kinloch Campsite, a seafront camping ground.
Harlosh
There are a few self catering places and B&B’s around Harlosh, a peninsula just south of Dunvegan. They give you the option of a more remote stay but being close to the amenities of Dunvegan.
Struan
About halfway between Dunvegan and the turn off to Carbost, this small village is home to The Crofters Bite and the Bog Myrtle Cafe.
5. Duirinish Peninsula
Duirinish is a remote and wild part of Skye, with a distinct charm in its rugged coastline, rolling moorland, and clusters of charming crofting villages.
It is mostly known for Neist Point, which attracts many visitors and can make the single track road very busy in summer, as well as the The Three Chimneys, a luxury 5 star rated restaurant with rooms, where you can even book a meal at “The Kitchen Table” where the chef serves specially curated dishes made from whatever is available that day.
Top Things to Do
- Neist Point Lighthouse: An iconic Skye landmark, the lighthouse is set on a dramatic cliffside, providing one of the best sunset views on the island. It is very popular in summer and I would highly recommend visiting very early, or going later in the afternoon and staying for sunset rather than trying to go too close to the time.
- Skye Weavers: See the pedal-powered looms in action, making the latest tweed
- The Three Chimneys Restaurant: A world-renowned restaurant offering fine dining with local ingredients.
- Chidakasha: A vegetarian/vegan restaurant serving locally sourced food alongside delicious teas in a cosy atmosphere.
Where to Stay
There are B&B’s and self catering accommodation spread across the peninsula. Consider something around Milovaig to be very close to Neist Point, or other areas to be more remote but within easy driving distance to Dunvegan.
6. Minginish Peninsula
Nestled in the heart of Skye, Minginish is home to the Cuillin Mountains and some of Skye’s most breathtaking natural wonders. This area offers both wild coastal landscapes and towering peaks.
Top Things to Do
- Fairy Pools: A series of crystal-clear pools fed by waterfalls, popular with hikers and photographers. While there are lots of waterfalls across Skye, these have become the most popular thanks to the way the water can appear almost turquoise, and the backdrop of the Cuillins. It is worth considering if you want to travel down the single track road to get there in the peak season, especially if the weather isn’t great, or consider other options. There is now a carpark and marked trail that is steep at the beginning/end. I would recommend going early or late.
- The Cuillin Mountains: Perfect for experienced climbers and hikers. The Black Cuillin range is famous for its jagged peaks and can be accessed from Glenbrittle, where the Fairy Pools are located.
- Talisker Distillery: Skye’s oldest distillery, where you can learn about the island’s whisky heritage and enjoy a tasting.
- The Oyster Shed: Famed for their fresh oysters, but they also sell other types of seafood as well. Definitely worth the trip! The carpark is tiny, fitting only a few cars, so consider parking at the bottom of the hill near Talisker Distillery and walking up.
- Cafe Cuil: One of my favourite places to eat on the island! Offers brunch and lunch with locally sourced ingredients, excellent coffee, and cakes.
- The Old Inn: A traditional pub that has live music most Thursday-Sundays in the season.
- Fox’s Hollow Blacksmith: By appointment only, where you can make your own Sgian Dubh (small knife) or view their custom blacksmith, bladesmith, and etching leather and woodwork items.
Where to Stay
Carbost
The main village in this area, offering B&Bs, hostels, and self-catering lodges, and home to The Old Inn, the Oyster Shed, and Talisker Distillery, as mentioned above.
Glenbrittle
The location of the Fairy Pools and Glenbrittle beach, but ideal for those looking to hike in the Cuillins, with a campsite at the beach and a hostel nearby.
Other areas to consider
Portnalong and Fiscavaig are located just north of Carbost and offer a mix of hotels, hostels, B&Bs, and self catering.
Consider Taigh Ailean Hotel, with views of Loch Harport, MacLeod’s Tables, and the Cuillin, and with breakfast included. There is also Skyewalker Hostel, one of just several hostels in Skye, with a well-appointed shared kitchen, and a large garden area with BBQs.
7. Sligachan and Sconser
This central area of Skye is often passed through by visitors but is worth stopping to explore. Sligachan is at the meeting point of the road between the Skye Bridge and Portree, and the turnoff towards Minginish, Dunvegan, and further north, making it an ideal base for hiking and outdoor adventures.
Sconser, just a short drive away, is known for its ferry connection to the Isle of Raasay and its beautiful coastal views.
Top Things to Do
- Sligachan Old Bridge: One of Skye’s most photographed landmarks, with dramatic views of the Cuillin Mountains. According to legend (or tour guides?) dipping your face in the waters beneath the bridge grants eternal beauty.
- Sligachan Hotel and Brewery: A great spot for a meal or drink, featuring locally brewed ales and a whisky selection.
- Hiking: Sligachan serves as a gateway to various Cuillin hiking routes, including trails leading through Glen Sligachan to Loch Coruisk.
- Sconser Golf Course: A scenic nine-hole course with views over the sea to Raasay. Visitors are welcome.
- Ferry to Raasay: From Sconser, take the short ferry ride across to the Isle of Raasay to explore its unique landscapes and distillery.
Where to Stay
Sligachan
The Sligachan Hotel is a historic hotel in the location that would have originally served hillwalkers in the Cuillins. It offers comfortable accommodations and easy access to walking trails.
Across the bridge there is a large old house with several self-catering units behind it, with stunning views of the Cuillin.
Then across the road from the Sligachan Hotel is the Sligachan campsite, with space for campervans and tents.
Sconser
There are several self-catering cottages and B&B’s, as well as the Sconser Lodge Hotel, which looks across to the island of Raasay. It’s a relatively central location to stay, within about equal distance to Broadford, Portree, and Carbost.
8. Broadford & Strath
This area of Skye is kind of hard to find a collective name for. It encompasses the second largest village in Skye, Broadford, Heasta, a small village over the back of Broadford, and stretches down through Torrin towards Elgol, the gateway to boat trips to Loch Coruisk in the Cuillins.
Strathaird (the small peninsula between Torrin and Camanasury) is a secluded area that is both stunningly beautiful and sparsely populated. Known for its dramatic cliffs and caves, as well as Bla Bheinn, the only munro in Skye not part of the Cuillin Ridge, this peninsula is a haven for those seeking a quieter experience.
Top Things to Do
- Visit Broadford: There are several walks in the area including the walk to Irishman’s Point, along the former railway path called the Marble Line, and up Beinn na Caillich the mountain that overlooks Broadford. The Market Square has shops including Made in Skye, and Skye Larder, as well as the Market Kitchen takeaway cafe. It’s also home to my favourite cafes at The Coffee Bothy, and the Selkie Collective which is a great place to grab snacks, fresh fruit, bread, and vegan soft serve ice cream.
- Elgol: A small fishing village with some of Skye’s most photogenic seascapes. Take a boat trip from here to explore Loch Coruisk, nestled in the Cuillin Mountains.
- Torrin: Halfway between Broadford and Elgol, with several walks in the area, a bunkhouse, and Amy’s Place which has delicious soup (get it with the cheese scones!) and cake, overlooking the iconic Bla Bleinn.
- Walks: There are lots of walks in the area, aside from those already mentioned. You can visit the clearance villages of Boreraig and Suisnish, as well as Camasunary Bay.
Where to Stay
Broadford
The second-largest settlement on Skye, offering hotels, B&Bs, and self-catering accommodations. This is another great place to stay if you want amenities within easy reach as there are several restaurants including The Sprig, in an old church, The Claymore, known for it’s seafood. There are also several cafes like The Coffee Bothy, Deli Gasta, and the Market Kitchen, as well as takeaways like Siaway.
The Broadford Hotel is also said to be the home of Drambuie, after the recipe was given by Bonnie Prince Charlie to a member of the MacKinnon family when they helped him escape after Culloden.
Breakish
Just south of Broadford so within easy reach, with great views back towards Beinn na Caillich and the Red Cuillins. It has the Red Skye Restaurant, which uses locally sourced ingredients, and the Lean To cafe, with great coffee and known for its toasties and cinnamon swirls.
Look out for self catering and B&B accommodation.
Torrin
Overlooking Bla Bheinn and Loch Saplin, with lots of walks in the area and offering a more remote stay, but within easy reach of Broadford.
Elgol
With stunning views towards the Small Isles, the island of Soay, and the Cuillins.
Consider Coruisk House, with it’s restaurant attached, and a self catering cottage also available, or one of several B&Bs and self catering options in the area.
9. Sleat Peninsula
Nicknamed the “Garden of Skye,” Sleat in the south is one of the island’s greenest areas, with a gentler landscape that includes lush woodland, lochs, and scenic walks.
It’s where the ferry from Mallaig comes in, yet many people drive straight through and miss its charms. There are many different things to do and places to stay, offering views back towards Knoydart on the mainland.
Top Things to Do
- Armadale Castle, Gardens & Museum of the Isles: Explore the beautiful gardens and learn about Skye’s history at The Museum of the Isles
- Torabhaig Distillery: Another whisky distillery offering guided tours and tastings.
- Walks: There are lots of different possible walks, including around Leitir Fura, Tormore Forest, around Armadale, and the Point of Sleat.
Where to Stay
There is a lot of accommodation spread across the peninsula, but here are a few notable places to mention.
- Armadale: Home to a variety of B&Bs and guesthouses and close to the ferry from Armadale-Mallaig.
- Isleornsay: A charming village with boutique accommodations and sea views. Home to Hotel Eilean Iarmain, with one of my favourite pubs, Bar Am Praban. It has a great atmosphere and delicious food.
- Kinloch Lodge: A luxury hotel in a beautiful setting, with unforgettable food and one of the best Sunday Lunches on Skye.
- Duisdale House Hotel: A charismatic former Victorian mansion turned hotel, with beautiful views and a fine dining restaurant. Afternoon tea here is also lovely.
10. South Skye
Okay so this isn’t technically a peninsula or area, but the name I’m giving everything between the bridge and Broadford, not including Sleat, which you access by turning off the main road just before Broadford.
It also encompasses Kylerhea, which is accessed down a single track road and is the location of the ferry crossing between there and Glenelg.
Top Things to Do
- Kylerhea Otter Hide: A viewpoint designed for otter-watching, and with luck, you might also spot seals and sea eagles. The drive down here is an absolutely stunning (if a little hairy!) single track road.
- Glenelg Ferry: A traditional turntable ferry between Kylerhea and Glenelg that takes you across to the mainland in a unique and historic way. Also a great place for spotting wildlife, with dolphins, otters, seals, and eagles often seen there.
- Castle Moil: A ruined castle near the harbour of the village of Kyleakin, just over the bridge from the mainland.
Where to Stay
Kyleakin: Just across the bridge from the mainland, offering budget-friendly hostels and hotels.
11. Isle of Raasay
Just a short ferry ride from Skye, the Isle of Raasay is an underrated place to visit when in Skye, with a mix of stunning landscapes and rich history.
Top Things to Do
- Tour Raasay Distillery: A whisky and gin distillery with tours and tastings, and a great restaurant with some of the best food I’ve had since moving to Skye.
- Walk to Dun Caan: The island’s highest peak, offering panoramic views over Skye and beyond.
- Raasay House: An activity centre offering everything from sea kayaking to rock climbing, but also with a cafe and a walled garden you can visit out the back.
- Visit historic sites like the Pictish Stone behind Raasay House
- Drive up to Calum’s Road: The road was made by one man mostly by hand to replace what was previously just a small track to the settlement where he and others lived at the northern end of Raasay, after they refused to do it.
Where to Stay
- Raasay House: A hotel and activity centre with various accommodation options.
- Borodale House at the Isle of Raasay Distillery: Stay at the distillery itself and enjoy meals in the on-site restuarant
Tips for Exploring Skye’s Peninsulas
When travelling on Skye, keep in mind that the single-track roads require patience and care. Visitors should be prepared to reverse if necessary to passing places to allow others to pass.
The road layouts also mean that journey times are often longer than expected, especially if you’re taking time to stop and enjoy the views.
Skye’s peninsulas each offer a distinct side of the island’s personality—from the rugged and mysterious to the serene and pastoral. It’s well worth taking your time to visit several sites in each one (or at least a few!) to give you more of an idea of what Skye is really like. You really can’t spend too long here!
If you’re using this guide to figure out where to stay in Skye, make sure you check out this post with tips for booking accommodation.
Sonja x
More About Skye
- How to Get to the Isle of Skye – All the Options!
- 10 Things to Know About the History of the Isle of Skye
- 12 Mistakes to Avoid When Visiting the Isle of Skye
- 10 Things To Know About the Isle of Skye Before Planning Your Trip
- 26 Tips for Visiting the Isle of Skye From a Local
- Booking Accommodation on the Isle of Skye: Top Tips
- Top 10 Tips For Driving in the Isle of Skye
- Top 13 Things to Do on the Isle of Skye
- How to Find Unique Things to Do in the Isle of Skye