Skye Basecamp

Isle of Skye, or often called just Skye, is the largest and northernmost island in the Inner Hebrides of Scotland. Dramatic scenery of The Cuillin mountain is contrasted by velvet moors and stunning beaches. The island – second-largest in Scotland – takes its name from an old Norse word sky-a, ‘cloud island’ which gives a hint of its mysterious beauty.

Isle of Skye hostels cater for backpackers and adventure seekers the year round. Choose a dorm or a private room. Most of the hostels in Isle of Skye offer free parking, free wifi and free linen. Play board games in the social areas or enjoy a drink after a day of exploring. Can you believe it – there is a hostel in the Isle of Skye where you can stargaze through the roof? Whichever option you settle for, your Isle of Skye hostel is guaranteed to be located right in the middle of stunning scenery.

Every corner of the island is surrounded by amazing nature and tranquil wilderness. Portree is the main town of the island. The lovely seaside village is known for its idyllic little houses, natural harbour and surrounding cliffs. It is also the cultural hub of Skye. Many choose Portree as their base for visiting the island and the nearby attractions such as the Trotternish Ridge. The remote peninsula of Dunvegan is the home of the Dunvegan Castle and Gardens, the legendary 13th century castle overlooking Loch Dunvegan.

If there is one thing in Isle of Skye that you need to experience, that is the nature. Make sure to visit the natural wonders such as the Fairy Pools, The Quiraing and The Cuillin Mountains. For the history buffs, Dunvegan Castle and Skye Museum of Island Life are must-sees. Try mountain biking, water sports and rock climbing, or go explore the wildlife. You might see dolphins, seals, red deer and puffins. There is obviously a traditional distillery on the island. Talisker Distillery invites visitors to taste the single malt and to learn about the history of whisky making in Scotland.

There is no railway in Skye, nor is there an airport. The nearest airports are in Inverness and Glasgow. To get to the island from Glasgow, you can either drive or get the train to Mallaig, and then a ferry to Skye. From Inverness, you might drive or take the train to Kyle and then a bus to the island. Renting a car is an option for travellers, it will take you everywhere on the island. Note though that roads might get busy during the high season and drivers need to be alert on bendy, single track roads. Local and national buses serve the island too. City Link buses operate from Glasgow and Inverness to and from Skye. Local bus routes in Skye go from one village to another. Check the timetables before you travel.