Isle of Skye
Scotland's most famous island — a doable (but long) day trip from Glen Coe.
Getting There
Skye is about 2 hours from Glen Coe via Fort William and the A87. Cross the Skye Bridge (free) at Kyle of Lochalsh. The drive itself is spectacular — through Glen Garry, past Eilean Donan Castle, and along Loch Duich.
Tip: Leave early (7-8am) for a day trip. There's a lot to see and the roads are single-track in places.
Highlights
The Old Man of Storr
Iconic rock pinnacle visible from miles away. The walk to the base takes about 45 minutes. One of the most photographed spots in Scotland. Car park fills early.
Fairy Pools
Crystal-clear blue pools and waterfalls at the foot of the Black Cuillin. An easy walk (1.5km) from the car park. Popular for wild swimming on warm days.
Portree
Skye's colourful capital. Pretty harbour, good restaurants (The Scorrybreac, Sea Breezes), shops, and galleries. Good lunch stop.
The Quiraing
Otherworldly landscape of pinnacles, cliffs, and hidden plateaus on the Trotternish Ridge. A 6.5km circular walk through some of the most extraordinary terrain in Britain.
Eilean Donan Castle
Scotland's most photographed castle, on the route to Skye. Stop on the way there or back. Open to visitors (entry fee).
Day Trip Itinerary
- 7:30am — Leave Glen Coe
- 9:00am — Photo stop at Eilean Donan Castle
- 10:00am — Old Man of Storr walk (1.5h)
- 12:00pm — Lunch in Portree
- 1:30pm — Fairy Pools walk (1h)
- 3:30pm — Drive back via Kyle of Lochalsh
- 6:00pm — Back in Glen Coe