Introducing Isle of Skye
The Isle of Skye (an t-Eilean Sgiathanach in Gaelic) takes its name from the old Norse sky-a, meaning ‘cloud island’, a Viking reference to the often mist-enshrouded Cuillin Hills. A 50-mile-long smorgasbord of velvet moors, jagged mountains, sparkling lochs and towering sea cliffs. The stunning scenery is the main attraction, but when the mist closes in there are plenty of castles, crofting museums and cosy pubs and restaurants to retire to.
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Along with Edinburgh and Loch Ness, Skye is one of Scotland’s top three tourist destinations. However, the hordes tend to stick to Portree, Dunvegan and Trotternish, and it’s almost always possible to find peace and quiet in the island’s farther-flung corners. Come prepared for changeable weather: when it’s fine it’s very fine indeed, but all too often it isn’t.
Last updated: May 16, 2011
Thorn Tree forum discussion
Recent posts
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Re: Three Weeks out on the Isles.... (another typical iterinary-query)
by himalayanfootsteps 09 September 2011
Book your buses early. Megabus offer really cheap fares if you book early enough (I once got a return Edinburgh - London for £7!). If…
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RE: renting a self-catering cottage in Scotland in December, good idea?
by Isean 01 September 2011
Hmm. The past two winter's we've had have been abnormally cold and snowy/icy. If it turns out the same this year I would say stay clear…
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Re: renting a self-catering cottage in Scotland in December, good idea?
by alisongbate 01 September 2011
Personally if you love Scotland for the outdoors walking... forget December! It'll be very cold, dark, bleak and remote. And dangerous…
Hotels & Hostels in Isle of Skye
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Uig Youth Hostel
Isle of Skye
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Glenbrittle Youth Hostel
Isle of Skye
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