Isle of Skye Accommodation

Skye road bridge linking Kyle of Lochalsh to the island

Places to eat in Kyleakin

Pleasure craft moored at Kyleakin

Lots of car parking in the village

Caisteal Maol

Isle of Skye Tourist Information Accommodation on Isle of Skye

Skye is the largest island of the Inner Hebrides. It is one of the more easily accessible islands being reached from the Kyle of Lochalsh over the Skye roadbridge or by one of the ferries from Mallaig or Glenelg.

It is a dramatic, mountainous island but as its name suggests, the misty isle, it is not always possible to see its stunning landscapes. In order to appreciate the island fully you need to set aside at least a few days to get a proper idea of the island - something you won't do in a short visit.

Getting to the Isle of Skye - Kyleakin - Eilean Ban

Skye is accessible by either road or ferry. The road bridge, built in 1995, is accessible from the Kyle of Lochalsh on mainland Scotland by driving through the dramatic Glen Shiel from the main A82 Fort William to Inverness road or from the north west. This has replaced the Kyle of Lochalsh ferry.

After much controversy there is now no charge for using the bridge so it is an easy, hassle-free journey across. The bridge brings you to Kyleakin where the main centre is off to your left at the end of the bridge. There are several accommodation choices here and eateries including an Indian restaurant. It's a good base for exploring the south and centre of the island. Check the Kyleakin link right for more information on walks and things to do in and around the village.

The bridge is actually in two halves and goes over the tiny island of Eilean Ban. This was home to Gavin Maxwell, a naturalist and author who is best known for his work with otters. The island is now a wildlife sanctuary that you can visit by boat. Book at the Visitor Centre.

If you don't fancy the trip across to the island the Bright Water Visitor Centre in Kyleakin helps inform visitors about the island's nature and history and there are various activities and playthings for children. The Eilean Bn Trust, The Pier, Kyleakin, Isle of Skye, IV41 8PL. Tel: 01599 530040. Email: enquiries@eileanban.org

Sleat Peninsula South Skye

South Skye is more commonly referred to as the Sleat Peninsula. This has a different character to much of the rest of Skye being more cultivated, flatter dotted with moorland and forestry. Being a "greener" landscape it's also known as the Garden of Skye.

Armadale Castle and Gardens, part of the Clan Donald Centre, has been the seat of the MacDonalds since the 18th century. Flora Macdonlad who helped Bonnie Prince Charlie flee, was married here. The castle is now in ruins except for the former stables that now houses the restaurant and gift shop. The gardens are what attract most visitors here. Benefiting from the mild Atlantic climate an enormous range of exotic plants are able to survive in the 40 acres of gardens surrounding the castle. As well as formal gardens there are a range of nature trails that take you out of the more formal gardens with views out across the Sound of Sleat.

The site also contains the acclaimed Museum of the Isles that tells the story of Skye and the surrounding islands as well as the ruling lairds the Clan Donald. There are six galleries which as you move through them build the story of the Clan Donald as well as the life of highlanders and their crofting lifestyle.

Open every day between April-October 9:30am-5:30pm (last entry to gardens 5pm). Winter opening of Gift Shop Mon-Fri 11am-3pm. Gardens open all year round. Armadale Castle Gardens & Museum of the Isles, Armadale, Sleat, Isle of Skye IV45 8RS. Tel: 01471 844305 or 01471 844227. Fax: 01471 844275. Email: office@clandonald.com. Museum of the Isles tel: 01599 534454.

Whale Dolphin Spotting Wildlife Boat Trips

Sea.fari Adventures run a range of boat trips from Armadale. These include a whale spotting trip and afternoon trips taking in views of the Small Isles and all sorts of wildlife including seals, seabirds, whales and porpoises.

The trips are in fast RIBs and life jackets and waterproofs are supplied. Obviously sensible clothing suitable for all weathers should be worn when going out on the boats.

Armadale Pier, Sleat, Isle of Skye IV45 8RS. Tel: 01471 833316 and 01471 844787. Email: skye@seafari.co.uk

Praban na Linne Malt Whisky Distillery Skye

There are two whisky distilleries on the Isle of Skye. In the south of Skye at Eilean Iarmain is the Praban na Linne Whisky Distillery, a family business started by Sir Iain Noble in 1976.

You can organise a visit to their headquarters, an old 19th century building, where you can taste their range of whiskies and see the original illegal still! They produce a single malt, a blended whisky and a connoisseurs blend.

There is also an art gallery, An Talla Dearg, adjacent to the offices that have a range of exhibitions throughout the season.

Praban na Linne Limited, Eilean Iarmain, Isle of Skye, Scotland, IV43 8QR, United Kingdom. Tel: 01471 833 496. Fax: 01471 833 493.

Kayaking Isle of Skye

One to five day skills courses are available from Skyak Adventures based in Isle Ornsay. They offer courses for beginners through to advanced kayakers.

Skyak Adventures, 13 Camuscross, Isle Ornsay, Isle of Skye IV43 8QS. Tel: 01471 833428. Email: info@skyakadventures.com

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