Isle of Skye driving and travel guide

If you are heading to Scotland for a holiday, then why not head west and take a trip to the Isle of Skye.

One of the nation’s almost 800 islands, it has risen to prominence as a popular tourist destination.

Although only 93 of those islands have habitants, the Isle of Skye has many sights and interesting places to visit for families and people of all ages.

This guide looks into that and how you can visit in your vehicle.

Where is the Isle of Skye?

The Isle of Skye is the largest island in the Inner Hebrides archipelago on the west coast of Scotland.

The Scottish island is known for its natural beauty, rugged landscapes, dramatic cliffs, and historic lochs.

Due to its location and landscape, it is popular with hikers, wildlife enthusiasts, and campers.

As it is connected to the mainland through a bridge, it is easily accessible and has many places for families to see.

• The Highway Code – common UK road signs and what they mean
• Driving Scotland’s ‘Route 66’ – the North Coast 500
• The top 10 best road trips in the UK

What is on the Isle of Skye?

Looking to make the Isle of Skye your next stop on your road trip in Scotland? Then there are many amazing sights to see.

The Inner Hebrides are iconic for their views, dramatic weather, and extensive history – but there are specific places you must see when you make the journey.

The Cuillin Mountains are a popular with walkers and climbers due to the rugged landscape surrounded by its many lochs.

At the base of the mountains, there are some crystal clear, blue and green pools known as the Fairy Pools.: These are popular with natural water swimmers.

Other natural phenomenon’s include the Quiraing. This is a unique landslip formation and geological rock face.

Another rock formation popular with hikers and photographers is the Old Man of Storr.

In terms of other destinations, there is the Talisker Distillery. The nation is known for its expertise in whisky production – and this is the island’s most famous brand.

Dunvegan Castle is one of the oldest continuously inhabited castles in Scotland and is the ancestral home of the MacLeod clan. For history fans, this is a cannot miss day out.

Finally, the largest town on the island is Portree. It has many independent shops, restaurants, and fun tourist locations.

• A guide to driving from Land’s End to Joh O’Groats
• The 8 best National Parks in the UK
• Isle of Wight travel guide

Can you drive to the Isle of Skye?

In short, yes, you can drive to the Isle of Skye as it is connected to the Scottish mainland by the Skye Bridge. This bridge can be driven on by any type of vehicle.

The bridge spans the narrow strait over Loch Alsh, and connects the village of Kyle of Lochalsh on the mainland with Kyleakin on the Isle of Skye.

To reach Skye by car, drive west along the A87, which connects to the bridge.

However, be sure to check the local weather report and councils – as the bridge can close if the conditions are too dangerous.

Have you driven to the Isle of Skye before? What advice would you give to visitors? Leave your comments below.