The Isle of Skye is otherworldly. There’s no other way to describe it. It doesn’t matter how you experience it – in your car, on a cliff, in the woods, walking by a stream, it’s utterly magical. I’ve been to Machu Picchu, a coral reef in Belize, and I’ve even been to Scotland before, but the Isle of Skye takes the cake. Hands down. No competition.

If you’re someone who likes crowds and gets energy from shopping and the bustle of a city, it may not be for you. But if you’re into busting your step counter up and down mountains with the best views and most surreal colors, this is the place.

The Isle of Skye is connected to mainland Scotland’s northwest coast. The only way to get there is either by ferry or quite literally one lone bridge.

Getting to the Isle of Skye: the ferry

Day four of our Scotland trip started with a 45 minute ferry ride from a cold, drizzly mainland Armdale to Sconser.

Snug in our Mercedes rental, and full from lunch, we boarded the ferry and went up top to find a seat with a view. Did I start to regret eating a very fishy tuna sandwich before getting on a boat? Especially knowing full well I get motion sick? Yes. But thankfully this story doesn’t end with me vomiting over the railing. 

With an afternoon to explore before tucking into our AirBnb for the night, we headed to Talisker Distillery (see my post about Scotland distilleries). After a quick tasing we hopped back in the car to explore the Fairy Pools.

The Fairy Pools

The Fairy Pools are a series of natural waterfalls along a winding path that cuts through glen. The path itself is about 5 miles round trip. With selfies, water breaks, and some time spent staring off into the green hills, I’d dedicate 2 hours to your hike.

Note on parking:

Be prepared to pay for parking at the Fairy Pools lot and know you may have to park a good distance from the entrance. It can get crowded but once you’re walking people spread out.

Before you leave your car, make sure you have on your hiking boots. This is Scotland so be prepared to get a bit wet and muddy!

There are a couple spots to keep in mind, especially if you’re traveling with limited mobility or children. The hill down to the path from the parking area is STEEP. You may smile while going down, but save that candy bar for some energy when going back up.

There are a couple of places where you may have to make a graceful leap over water. Don’t worry about not knowing where, you’ll hear the screaming. In these spots take off your shoes. The water is chilly but clean and little cold Scottish water never hurt anyone!

The trail along the water takes you as far as you’re willing to go really. As you keep on, the crowds will thin and the waterfalls will become less dynamic. There won’t be a “Congratulations, you’ve made it to the end!” sign, so it’s up to you to decide when to turn around. The trail is out and back, so if spots were crowded on your way out, now’s your chance to get some beauty shots.

Sconser

A good hike in the books and our step goals exceeded for the day, we headed back to Sconser. After a long day we were ready to check into our AirBnb and find dinner. 

The Boathouse AirBnb

Our home for the next two nights was a snug little boathouse on the water with gorgeous views from the bedroom window. Our hosts were chatty and knowledgeable and wanted to know all about our plans for the next day. They were quick to recommend dinner at Seumas’ Bar, a spot a short drive down the road.

Seumas’ is a hotel, bar, and restaurant and was one of our favorite dinners. There are plenty of vegetarian options and some local beer if you’re into a pint.

Note on waiting for a table

One thing to keep in mind is that it is located right next door to a campsite and hotel. In recent years the Isle has become more touristy, so if you come at dinnertime, expect to wait.

If you find yourself looking for a post-dinner walk (or a pre-dinner walk if you have to wait for a table), there is a beautiful spot to explore across the road. Walk off your dinner and explore the bridge and stream.

As the sun started to go behind the mountains and the temperature dropped, we headed home. Day 2 in the Isle of Skye promised to be a day jam-packed with hiking and exploring!

Looking for more?

Read on to Isle of Skye day two or ready my guide, which is full of tips and tricks for planning a trip to Scotland & Ireland.