The home of the chiefs of MacLeod for nearly 800 years. Believed to be the oldest inhabited castle in Britain, and certainly the most significant on Skye. Dunvegan Castle is home to all manner of outlandish fiction and blood-curdling fact. Excellent water garden and a particularly cruel dungeon!
Open April to October
The area around Glendale is wonderful for wildlife, with excellent bird-watching on the sea cliffs and shore. Whales, porpoises and dolphins are regularly seen from Neist Point and of course, the crofting traditions of the area mean that sheep, cattle, and chickens roam freely, which is especially exciting in the springtime, when lambs and calves can be seen skippng and running around.
Impressive flat-topped mountains, Healabhal Mor (1538 ft) and Healabhal Beag (1601 ft) rise in gentle contrast to the jagged peaks of the Black Cuillins.
Formed from a rare form of calcified seaweed, these gorgeous white beaches make a superb place for a picnic or a swim, for those brave enough!
Due to the popularity of this location, it is highly advised to arrive early on in the day, to secure a parking space in the small car park and to enjoy the stunning scenery without the crowds.
The absence of light pollution makes Glendale an amazing place to marvel at the stars after dark, with the Milky Way clearly visible overhead and shooting stars often seen streaking overhead.
On Autumn and Spring nights, when conditions are right, the Aurora Borealis provides an awesome and very beautiful spectacle over Loch Pooltiel.
The crystal clear waters are excellent for diving and there are a number of well-preserved ship-wrecks on the ocean floor around the Duirinish Coast. These include the ss Chadwick which ran aground at the mouth of Oisgill Bay in 1892 and the ss Doris which crashed onto Neist Point in 1909.
Providing an up close and personal encounter with some of nature's greatest hunters, Guy at Skye Bird of Prey Experiences offers Hawk Walks and Owl and Hawk encounters, where guests can come nose to beak with beautiful birds of prey as they learn all about them. Booking essential: https://www.facebook.com/Skyebirdofprey
This is one of our favourite ways to spend an afternoon, whether it be an addition to a lazy day or a treat after a long walk, the afternoon tea at this stunning manor house never disappoints. Get cosy by the fire on a cold rainy day or take a seat on the patio when the sun is shining and take in the gorgeous views of the surroundning area.
Pre booking is essential: https://greshornishhouse.com/dining/
There are a plethora of boat trip options to choose from here on Skye, with many departing regularly from Portree Harbour to visit the seal colony and search for sea eagles, dolpins, porpoise, minke whales and much more.
The personal favourite of Jane's is offered by Bella Jane Boat Trips, located in Elgol, in the south of the island. Take a look at https://www.bellajane.co.uk/
Another good option is SkyeXplorer Boat Trips, who offer puffin trips (May-July) and whale spotting trips (August-September). They also do private charters. Find out more at https://www.puffinsandwhales.co.uk/
For something a bit more luxurious, have a look at what Seaflower Skye has to offer:http://seaflowerskye.com/
...are best kept on the down low, so we can preserve their tranquility and prevent crowds. BUT, if you're lucky and promise not to invite too many people, we may just imaprt our local knowledge of some hidden gems for you to explore if you fancy an adventure that is off the beaten track! :)
Angie is one of our favourite local artists, who creates some spectacular pieces, inspired by the natural world around her. Her style is unique and quirky and she captures the magic of Skye in everything she produces. Her gallery, which is closeby and en-route to the famous Neist Point Lighthouse, is well worth a visit. See https://www.artateight.co.uk/visit-us.html to find out more!
