Road Tripping Scotland: Exploring The Magical Isle of Skye

Isle of Skye Travel Blog: Fairy Glen

The Isle of Skye is one of the most sought after travel destinations in all of the United Kingdom. The largest and northernmost isle in the outer hebrides, Skye is famous for its rugged landscapes, picturesque towns and undeniable natural beauty.

I first visited Skye in 2012 and fell head over heels in love. For me, Skye was majestic, romantic and wild. Times have changed a little, tourism has clearly boomed in the area, making Skye a little less wild, but certainly no less beautiful.

“Traffic”

We crossed onto Skye via the aptly named Skye Bridge. We seemed to leave the clear blue skies behind us immediately upon crossing, and it didn’t take long before we encountered our first traffic jam, or at least the Skye version of one!

Isle of Skye Travel Blog

Isle of Skye Travel Blog

Isle of Skye Travel Blog

Portree Pod

Accommodation on Skye is more expensive than it is on the mainland. I would’ve opted for a hostel dorm, but Dan doesn’t do well in dorm environments (something I learned the hard way) so we turned to AirBnB to try and find some for affordable accommodation.

In the end, we opted to stay in a Portree pod! Basically, there are quite a few tiny pods that have cropped up across Skye; they are basic and utterly teeny, but they are the perfect size for a couple that don’t need much space – and who don’t mind being squished up in bed together!

At $200 a night these pods are by no means cheap, but they are much more affordable than many of the standard hotels in Portree.

Isle of Skye Travel Blog: Portree Pod

Fairy Glen

One of the first places we visited was the ever so gorgeous Fairy Glen.

Located on the northern tip of the isle, this glen is one of the most unique and enchanting landscapes on all of Skye. Created by a landslip, it is easy to see how this spot got its name – it really does look like the kind of place where fairies would like to live.

I couldn’t resist throwing the drone up, and I ended up capturing some of my absolute favourite shots – making it so worth the high wind warnings!

Isle of Skye Travel Blog: Fairy Glen

Isle of Skye Travel Blog: Fairy Glen

Isle of Skye Travel Blog: Fairy Glen

Isle of Skye Travel Blog: Fairy Glen

Highland Coo’s

If you spend enough time driving around the more northerly parts of Scotland, you will inevitably come across some of the shaggiest, fluffiest and sassiest cows that ever lived.

Highland cows – or coo’s as the Scots call them – are a specific breed of cattle that can only be found in Scotland, and are most often found in the highlands. They can come in many colours, but the reddish coloured coats are by far the most striking.

These cows usually always have a pretty impressive set of horns, so it pays to approach them with caution. Getting too close could lead to a rather painful experience, and I’m sure nobody wants to get a goring whilst on holiday!

Isle of Skye Travel Blog: Highland Cow

Isle of Skye Travel Blog: Highland Cow

Neist Point

Neist Point is a particularly scenic stretch of coastline on the most westerly point of Skye. We were not blessed with good weather during our visit, but that didn’t make it any less gorgeous.

Be aware, the lighthouse can only be accessed by able-bodied individuals, as there is a steep-ish descent down from the carpark to the pathway.

Also, it really does pay to dress appropriately. Boots and windproof jackets are a must!

This was our last stop for the day before heading back to Portree, but it certainly wasn’t the least.

Isle of Skye Travel Blog: Neist Point

Isle of Skye Travel Blog: Neist Point

Isle of Skye Travel Blog: Neist Point

Isle of Skye Travel Blog: Neist Point

Isle of Skye Travel Blog: Neist Point

Up next, we journey from Skye to Edinburgh, stopping at some gorgeous spots – one of which is a must see for any true Harry Potter lover.

Stay tuned!

THE  LOWDOWN

Getting to Edinburgh: One of Scotland’s largest air and rail hubs – you’ll have lots of options
Portree Pod: This is a cosy and unique place to stay in Portree – click here to learn more. If you are new to AirBnB, make sure to click this link to get $38 AUD off your first stay or experience
Vehicle Hire: We hired a car through Budget with no issues, which seemed to be the most affordable option
Camera: Images captured with an Olympus OM-D E-M1 in conjunction with M.Zuiko 7-14mm f/2.8 and M.Zuiko 12-40mm f/2.8 lenses
Remember: Take good waterproof boots, you’ll absolutely need them when on Skye!

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20-something year old Australian backpacker writing her way around the world.

5 thoughts on “Road Tripping Scotland: Exploring The Magical Isle of Skye

  1. 200 Australian dollars? I work that out as about £110. The question is what would it have cost in a dorm (which does sound a bit grim for a couple travelling as I guess you’d be separated) for two?

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