9 Days & 8 Nights

4.5

A Long Walk on the Isle of Skye

Walk the length of Skye from south to north
Soak in the atmosphere of rugged Loch Coruisk
Marvel at the jagged peaks of the Cuillin Ridge
Discover the history and people of Skye on your journey across this magnificent island
Overnight in the colourful harbour town of Portree

The Isle of Skye draws walkers from across the globe because of it’s spectacular scenery, inspiring geology and deep history. On this self-guided walking holiday taking in the highlights of the Skye Trail discover the magic of the "misty isle" for yourself. Begin in the remote southern Sleat Peninsula and wind your way north towards the small shore-side village of Broadford via wild stretches of coastline on quiet trails. Keep an eye out for soaring sea eagles! Explore perhaps the remotest area on Skye round Loch Coruisk and enjoy one of Scotland's finest day walks below the spectacular Cuillin Ridge to arrive in Sligachan. From here head for the colourful and harbour-side village of Portree - this bustling village will be your base from which to explore the island's rugged north. Walk mountain paths through the iconic landscape of The Storr's rock pinnacles and the beautiful Trotternish Ridge that draws you further north still.

From $2,299.00

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Itinerary

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Day 1 Arrive Armadale and overnight

The best way to arrive on the Isle of Skye is by ferry from Mallaig to Armadale. The nearest accmmodation is a 1 km walk away from the ferry port in the small coastal village of Ardvasar.

Overnight Ardvasar

Accommodations

A sample of our typical carefully chosen accommodation in this location. Where you stay will vary depending on availability, but will be a similar standard.

The Inn @ Àird a' Bhàsair | Hotel

The Ardvasar Hotel was built in the early 1800's making it one of the oldest hotels on Skye. It is situated in the beautiful "Garden of Skye" overlooking the Sound of Sleat and the magnificent Knoydart Mountains beyond. They offer comfortable accommodation in all of their 10 rooms, all rooms are en-suite and have all the amenities you require for a great overnight stay. They also have a great reputation for using the best ingredients in their restaurant. Fresh fish is landed daily and their menu will often include lobster, scallops, crab or salmon.

Homeleigh B&B | Bed and breakfast

Nestled on the hillside, Homeleigh is a modern building with all the comforts of home. Located on Skye's Sleat Peninsula you'll have panoramic views over the Sound of Sleat to the fishing village of Mallaig, Loch Nevis and the mainland's Knoydart Peninsula.

Morar B&B | Bed and breakfast

Morar is a large comfortable house on a working croft overlooking the sea. Their south facing terrace and dining room have extensive sea views and dolphins and whales can often be watched from the terrace and the garden. All rooms are freshly decorated and have all the amenities you require for a great overnight stay. They also have an indoor heated swimming pool which you use in the evening.

Day 2 Ardvasar to Achnacloich 10.5 miles / 17 km

Leave the houses of Ardvasar behind as you climb green slopes to the seemingly deserted west coast of Sleat. Follow the route to the picturesque crafting township of Tarskavaig, famed for it’s spectacular views of the Cuillins. Arrive in Achnacloich where you will be picked up and transferred to your accommodation in Broadford, a small town full of cosy pubs and homely guesthouses.

Ascent: 191m (627ft) / Descent: 204m (669ft)

Overnight Broadford

Accommodations

A sample of our typical carefully chosen accommodation in this location. Where you stay will vary depending on availability, but will be a similar standard.

Limestone Cottage | Bed and breakfast

This lovely converted stone cottage, offers 3 unique and special rooms which are warm and welcoming to guests. Every room is en-suite and with original beams and an incredibly picturesque sea view from the original sash windows, it strongly retains its crofthouse charm. Each room has complimentary tea and coffee, homemade treats, comfortable beds, local information, fresh towels and free WiFi.

Broadford House | Guest House

Independently owned and run, the proprietors pride themselves on the quality of service, food, high standards of cleanliness and the warmth of welcome! Each guest receives an individually tailored experience and you are assured a most comfortable and indeed very enjoyable stay at this splendid accommodation. Broadford House offers bed and breakfast accommodation in a selection of tastefully decorated rooms. The rooms all have television with tea and coffee making trays. The bed and breakfast cottage overlooks Broadford Bay with plenty of eating places nearby.

Broadford Hotel | Hotel

The Broadford is a 4* hotel that has been redecorated in contemporary style to offer a warm welcome and excellent service and food in beautiful settings. Each room is en-suite with free WIFI, flat screen TV, hairdryer and hospitality tray.

Day 3 Torrin to Broadford 11 miles / 17.5 km

From the small village of Torrin, follow a clear path that hugs the dramatic coastline. From the clifftops you'll have beautful views over of the Cuillin Ridge; towering above the expanse of open sea, the ridge is imposing and impressive. Pass deserted crofters communities, sheltered beaches and tumbling waterfalls. The path turns north again towards Broadford, ascend to a moorland plateau, through a protected forest reservation, past an abandoned marble quarry and back into Broadford.

Ascent: 271m (889ft) / Descent: 297m (974ft)

Overnight Broadford

Accommodations

A sample of our typical carefully chosen accommodation in this location. Where you stay will vary depending on availability, but will be a similar standard.

Limestone Cottage | Bed and breakfast

Hebridean Inn | Hotel

The Hebridean Inn is a simple small hotel with great views over Broadford Bay. Their comfortable en-suite rooms have all the amenities you require for a comfortable stay.

Broadford House | Guest House

Day 4 Kilmarie to Sligachan 10.5 miles / 17 km

Your day begins with a taxi transfer from Broadford to Kilmarie, and from here you'll cross moorland to the tranquil shores of Camasunary bay. Wind your way between Bla Bheinn and the Cuillin, over mountain streams into Sligachan on one of Scotland's finest day walks.

Ascent: 250m (820ft) / Descent: 287m (942ft)

Overnight Sligachan

Accommodations

A sample of our typical carefully chosen accommodation in this location. Where you stay will vary depending on availability, but will be a similar standard.

Sligachan Hotel | Hotel

It would be hard to find a more dramatic and inspiring setting in the whole of Scotland, than the one enjoyed by The Sligachan Hotel. With the Black Cuillin towering at its back and the sparkling waters of Loch Sligachan at its foot, the hotel has served walkers for nearly 180 years. Serving the finest of ingredients their restaurant is the perfect place to eat after a day’s walking. Relax over a glass of wine and succulent steak or the freshest of seafood and fish.

Sconser Lodge Hotel | 3 Star | Lodge

Built in 1871 as a hunting box for the MacDonalds, Sconser Lodge is now a delightful hotel, where you are assured a friendly, relaxing stay. Its central location between Portree and Broadford. The hotel which has been graded 3 stars by Visit Scotland, has 8 en-suite rooms, all with TV. They have a dining room, where they serve delicious home cooking; a bar offering Isle of Skye real ale, a range of malt whiskies and a selection of wines; and a comfortable lounge with books, games and TV.

Day 5 Sligachan to Portree 12 miles / 19.5 km

Leave the remoteness of Sligachan behind for the bustle of Portree's harbour. Follow the edge of Loch Sligachan to Peinchorran to follow sleepy winding lanes along the coast to a riverside path. Follow the path into colourful Portree. After reaching Varragill estuary were you join a track you should be able to see a good selection of birdlife.

Ascent: 253m (830ft) / Descent: 240m (787ft)

Overnight Portree

Accommodations

A sample of our typical carefully chosen accommodation in this location. Where you stay will vary depending on availability, but will be a similar standard.

Erisco B&B | Bed and breakfast

Erisco is a most relaxing accommodation on the Isle of Skye, very close to the town centre attractions of Portree. Recently refurbished and renovated, all rooms are en-suite, comfortably furnished and have all the amenities you require for a great overnight stay. Jessie and John will provide you with a very warm Skye welcome at this lovely property.

Creagory Skye | Bed and breakfast

Creagory Skye is a quality bed and breakfast located only 5 minutes from the centre of Portree, capital of the Isle of Skye. Ideally positioned to enjoy the local restaurants, the pretty harbour area, pubs and shops as well as a great set off point for visiting Skye’s famous landmarks like the Old Man of Storr and the Fairy Pools. The house has recently been completely refurbished and all bedrooms have luxury ensuite shower rooms.

Woodlands B&B | Bed and breakfast

Woodlands B&B offers a peaceful, welcoming atmosphere, ideal for travelers looking to explore the island’s stunning landscapes and vibrant local culture. Located just a short stroll from Portree’s bustling village center, Woodlands B&B provides easy access to a variety of shops, cozy pubs, and delightful restaurants. With cozy en-suite rooms, thoughtful amenities, and a commitment to personalized service, Woodlands B&B is the perfect base for an unforgettable stay on Skye. For those arriving in Portree by Bus, the Isle of Skye Candle Visitor Centre bus stop is less than a 10-minute walk away.

Day 6 The Storr Dam to Portree 8 miles / 13 km

A morning transfer will drop you off at the The Storr Loch Dam from where you'll hug the coastline all the way to the charming town of Portree. Begin near the Bearreraig Bay viewpoint and make your way across moorland following coastal cliffs to the trig-point on the coastal ridge (Sithean Bhealaich Chumhaing). From here the path descends towards the entrance of Portree Bay. Cross farmland before joining a path through the trees nea the shore to enter the town of Portree.

Ascent: 397m (1,303ft) / Descent: 519m (1,703ft)

Overnight Portree

Accommodations

A sample of our typical carefully chosen accommodation in this location. Where you stay will vary depending on availability, but will be a similar standard.

Erisco B&B | Bed and breakfast

Creagory Skye | Bed and breakfast

Woodlands B&B | Bed and breakfast

Day 7 The Storr to Quirang 12 miles / 22.5 km

Today begins with transfer to The Storr car park, from here a steep climb takes you past The Old Man of Storr to the highpoint of the Trotternish Ridge at ~720 m. This is where the route enters real mountain country and although the journey along the Trotternish Ridge is truly spectacular the walking is challenging and mostly on pathless sheep cropped terrain. A series of cliffs, pinnacles and towers decorate the eastern slopes of the ridge and the view of the ridge and the sea on each side is breathtaking.

After your walk you will be collected from The Quirang car park for the short drive to Portree for your overnight.

Ascent: 1292m (4,239ft) / Descent: 1212m (3,976ft)

Overnight Portree

Accommodations

A sample of our typical carefully chosen accommodation in this location. Where you stay will vary depending on availability, but will be a similar standard.

Erisco B&B | Bed and breakfast

Creagory Skye | Bed and breakfast

Woodlands B&B | Bed and breakfast

Day 8 The Quirang to Flodigarry Area 6 miles / 10.5 km

A transfer returns you to the Quiraing from where you'll rejoin the Trotternish Ridge. After some ascent you are afforded glorious views over the rugged land and sea-scape before making a loop back around through the Quiraings most famous geological features. Your walk finishes near Flodigarry and then you will get picked up by an included transfer and taken back to your accommodation in Portree for your final night.

Ascent: 507m (1,663ft) / Descent: 509m (1,670ft)

Overnight Portree

Accommodations

A sample of our typical carefully chosen accommodation in this location. Where you stay will vary depending on availability, but will be a similar standard.

Erisco B&B | Bed and breakfast

Creagory Skye | Bed and breakfast

Woodlands B&B | Bed and breakfast

Day 9 Onward Travel

THIS TRIP'S CARBON SCORE

This trip has a carbon score of 18kg per person per night, meaning it’s one of our best trips! For comparison, a carbon count of 18kg is equivalent to 1 8-oz steak. Here at Macs, we pride ourselves on being a responsible travel company and continue to adopt, develop and innovate ways to positively impact the environment. Find out more information about how we've carbon counted our trips.

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Other Information

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Is it for me? Accommodation & Meals Navigation What's Included

Included

Accommodation in hand-picked B&B's, guest houses and small hotels
Breakfast each morning
Baggage transfer
Taxi transfers as detailed in the itinerary
Information pack
Access to GPX tracks, route notes and detailed mapping on the Macs Adventure smartphone app
24/7 Emergency telephone support from our office

Excluded

Travel to the start or from the finish of the walk
Lunches, dinners, snacks & drinks
Personal equipment
Travel insurance (required)

Extras

Additional nights along the route

When to go Travel & Transfers

Getting to the Start

By Air: Inverness Airport is located a few miles east of Inverness and is served by many airlines. A regular shuttle service runs to the city centre, where you can connect with public transport to Skye (4 hours). Visit www.invernessairport.com for details of operators and routes. Glasgow Airport is located 8 miles west of Glasgow and is also served by many airlines. A regular shuttle service runs to the city centre, where you can connect with public transport to Skye (6 hours). Visit their website for details of operators and routes.

By Rail and Ferry: The West Highland Line railway links Glasgow with Mallaig and connects with the ferry to Armadale on Skye from where it is a short walk to your Ardvasar accommodation. Total journey time is about 8 hours. For information on all rail routes visit ScotRail and for ferry information visit Calmac.

By Bus: Services from Scottish destinations are operated by Citylink. The Glasgow to Portree route (5h 20) arrives in Broadford from where you can take a local bus to Ardvasar. Services run several times daily.

Getting from the End

By Bus: For the return journey from Flodigarry take a local bus or taxi to Portree from where you can take a Citylink bus back to Glasgow. It's also possible to take the bus or train to Inverness for your onward travel.

Luggage Transfer

Your bags will be transferred from your accommodation as per your itinerary and moved onto your next overnight accommodation. We ask you to limit your luggage to one bag of up to 20kg per person.

At Macs Adventure, we work in partnership with many luggage transfer providers who set a limit on how many bags/suitcases they will transfer per person, and also the weight of the bag/suitcase. Your booking includes transfer of 1 bag per person. It is very important that you read the luggage information specific to your tour before departure. If you do not adhere to these limits, there is a great possibility that you will be charged locally both for extra bags or if they are too heavy. This limitation can be a challenge, especially as airlines generally have limits that are higher. However, our luggage providers have reasons for these limits (usually due to the Health and Safety of their employees), which we must respect.

Taxi Transfers

The Isle of Skye can get extremely busy over the peak summer months and there are only a few transfer companies available on the Island. At peak times, your taxi transfers as detailed in your itinerary may be shared with other Macs Adventure customers. This avoids long wait times in the morning and afternoons and ensures we are being as environmentally friendly as possible.

Info & FAQ

Travel Insurance

It is a requirement of booking this tour with Macs Adventure that you have suitable travel insurance which covers you for the activity and emergency evacuation and hospital care.