Magical Isle Of Skye: 7 of The Best Places To Visit

Isle Of Skye

The Isle of Skye is a true gem in the Scottish Highlands. Its breathtaking landscape features rugged cliffs, serene lochs, and enchanting fairy glens. As a seasoned traveler, I recently had the opportunity to explore this captivating island, and I’m excited to share my top 7 Best Places To Visit with you.

1. The Old Man of Storr

The Old Man of Storr is undoubtedly one of the most iconic and magical locations on the Isle of Skye. This towering rock formation, standing tall against the backdrop of the island’s dramatic scenery, is a true sight to behold. The hike to the Old Man of Storr is a moderate 4-kilometer trek that takes around 1-2 hours to complete, but the effort is well worth it.

Isle of Skye

As I approached the Old Man of Storr, the sheer scale of the rock formation left me in awe. The black crows soaring overhead only added to the fairytale-like atmosphere, making me feel as if I had stepped into a different realm. I was able to capture some truly epic shots, both at sunrise and sunset, showcasing the ever-changing light and shadows that dance across the Old Man’s rugged face.

One of my favorite spots along the trail was the section that runs close to the rock formation, where a sign warns hikers not to venture beyond a certain point. I couldn’t resist the temptation and got some fantastic running shots, with the Old Man of Storr towering in the background. The surrounding rock fields also provided the perfect opportunity to fly my drone, capturing the breathtaking landscape from a unique aerial perspective.

2. The Glenfinnan Viaduct

While the Glenfinnan Viaduct is not technically located on the Isle of Skye, it’s a must-visit destination for anyone exploring the Scottish Highlands. This iconic railway bridge, made famous by the Harry Potter films, is a true architectural marvel, stretching across the serene Loch Shiel.

Isle Of Skye

I parked my car and hiked underneath the viaduct, marveling at its sheer size and grandeur. Watching the Jacobite Steam Train, also known as the “Hogwarts Express,” chug across the bridge was truly magical. Despite the rain, I was able to capture some beautiful shots of the tracks with the stunning Loch Shiel in the background, creating a scene that looked almost too picturesque to be real.

If you’re a fan of the Harry Potter series or simply appreciate breathtaking landscapes, the Glenfinnan Viaduct is a must-visit destination on your journey through the Scottish Highlands. Be sure to check out my Top 10 Places in Europe, where I showcase some of the other iconic locations I’ve had the privilege of exploring.

3. The Mealt Falls

Located just a short distance from the Old Man of Storr, the Mealt Falls is another stunning natural wonder that should be on your Isle of Skye itinerary. This dramatic waterfall cascades over a cliff, plunging into the rocky shores below, creating a mesmerizing display of power and beauty.

I was able to capture some incredible drone footage of the Mealt Falls, showcasing the surrounding rock cliffs and the sheep-dotted landscape. The viewpoint offers a perfect vantage point to admire the waterfall, and the nearby rock formations and coastal scenery only add to the allure of this breathtaking location.

4. The Fairy Glen

The Fairy Glen is a truly enchanting destination on the Isle of Skye, with its rolling green hills, mysterious circular formations, and a sense of otherworldly magic. To reach this captivating spot, you’ll need to navigate a winding, one-lane road, but the journey is well worth the effort.

Isle Of Skye

As I explored the Fairy Glen, I was struck by the vibrant green hues that seemed to permeate every inch of the landscape. The circular formations, known as “fairy circles,” added to the mystical atmosphere, and I couldn’t resist the urge to fly my drone to capture the stunning aerial perspectives.

Whether you’re a fan of fantasy and folklore or simply appreciate the beauty of nature, the Fairy Glen is a must-visit destination on the Isle of Skye. Be sure to check out my Top 10 Places in Greece, where I showcase some of the other enchanting locations I’ve had the privilege of exploring.

5. The Sligachan Old Bridge and the Cuillin Mountains

The Sligachan Old Bridge is a picturesque landmark that has become a popular spot for photographers and visitors to the Isle of Skye. While I didn’t spend too much time at the bridge itself due to the crowds, I was captivated by the stunning Cuillin Mountains that loom in the background.

The Cuillin Mountains are a rugged and dramatic mountain range that dominates the landscape of the Isle of Skye. With their sharp, jagged peaks and deep, moody hues, these mountains create a truly awe-inspiring sight. I was able to capture some breathtaking footage of the Cuillin Mountains from various vantage points, showcasing their raw, untamed beauty.

6. The Fairy Pools

The Fairy Pools are a series of crystal-clear, turquoise-hued pools and waterfalls that have become a must-visit destination on the Isle of Skye. While I didn’t venture down to the pools themselves due to the swarms of biting bugs, I was able to capture some stunning aerial footage of the surrounding mountains and landscape.

The contrast between the dark, moody mountains and the vibrant, emerald-green mountainsides was truly breathtaking. I spent some time flying my drone over the area, capturing the serene beauty of the Fairy Pools from above.

If you do decide to visit the Fairy Pools, be sure to come prepared with plenty of bug spray and appropriate hiking gear. The hike down to the pools can be challenging, but the reward of swimming in the crystal-clear waters is said to be well worth the effort. And don’t forget to check out my Top 10 Places to Visit in 2025, where I showcase some of the world’s most stunning travel destinations.

7. The Quiraing

The Quiraing is a truly remarkable and iconic destination on the Isle of Skye, offering a landscape that seems to have been sculpted by the hands of giants. This rugged, otherworldly mountain range is a must-visit for anyone exploring the island, and it was one of my personal favorites.

Isle Of Skye

To reach the Quiraing, you’ll need to navigate a winding, one-lane road that winds its way up the mountainside. The drive itself is an adventure, with stunning vistas unfolding around every turn. Once you reach the parking lot, it’s a relatively easy 30-minute hike to the heart of the Quiraing, where you’ll be greeted by a landscape that seems to defy gravity.

I spent several visits to the Quiraing, each time capturing the ever-changing light and weather conditions that transformed the landscape. From moody, misty days to bright, sunny skies, the Quiraing always offered a new and captivating perspective. The green grass, the serene lakes, and the towering, iconic mountains all combined to create a truly breathtaking experience.

Preparing for Your Isle of Skye Adventure

As you plan your journey to the Isle of Skye, there are a few important things to keep in mind. First and foremost, be prepared for the ever-changing weather conditions. The Scottish Highlands are known for their unpredictable climate, so be sure to pack layers, rain gear, and sturdy hiking boots.

Another important consideration is the prevalence of biting insects, particularly the tiny gnats that can be a real nuisance. Be sure to bring plenty of bug spray and consider wearing long sleeves and pants to protect yourself.

Driving on the left-hand side of the road can also be a challenge for some visitors, especially on the narrow, winding roads of the Isle of Skye. Take your time, be cautious, and don’t be afraid to pull over if you need a break.

To help you prepare for your adventure, Check out the camera and travel gear I used during my time on the Isle of Skye. You can check out my recommended gear on Amazon.

If you’re looking for more inspiration and travel tips, be sure to check out my other guides.

I hope this guide has inspired you to add the Isle of Skye to your travel bucket list. With its breathtaking landscapes, rich history, and enchanting fairy-tale-like charm, this magical island is a true gem in the Scottish Highlands. Happy travels!

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