Discover Winter on the Isle of Skye
For those willing to bundle up and brave the brisk winds, winter on Skye offers a slower, more peaceful pace where the elements take centre stage.
If you’re after practical tips and personal stories from a traveller who’s made Skye her home, look no further. Sonja, also known as ‘Migrating Miss,’ lives in the south of Skye and often pops into our shops to say hi! Living in an island community means you get to know so many different people, and Sonja has plenty of insider knowledge to help you make the most of your visit. We caught up with her to get her best advice for this time of the year. 
Photos by Hannah Morris
'Winter in Skye can bring almost any kind of weather. From snow, wind, and rain to sunshine. Yes! Even that. But don't expect it to be warm, that's for sure. Skye is a seasonal place where, after a busy summer, locals make the most of a well-deserved rest over winter. It's a time for people to step back, relax, and maybe even take up creative indoor pursuits as the days shorten and darkness lingers.
The good thing is there is still plenty to do around the Misty Isle!
Here are a few ideas:
Watch out for the Northern Lights
When the conditions are right, Skye is a great place to spot the Northern Lights in winter. Of course, you will need to be lucky to have clear skies, but if you do and the Aurora Borealis is out, then there are plenty of places dark enough all over Skye to see it.
Photo taken on Skye by Jen from Òr
Visit local shops and businesses
Winter is a great time to browse some of the shops and local makers around Skye that still have their doors open, including Òr. There are fewer people around, so they aren't as crowded as they might be in the summer season, giving you plenty of time to browse and admire what's on offer and ask more questions of the people working there.
Photos by Hannah Morris
Attend a local event
Local life doesn't stop because it's winter! If anything, there are more events on offer that are focussed on locals attending. In the lead-up to Christmas, there are plenty of local markets across the island and other fun events to build up to the holiday season.
In January, several places will have a Burns Night Supper, celebrating Scotland's National Poet, Rabbie Burns, with a night of good food, music, and entertainment, often in the form of his poems. There are film nights, talks, and even knitting or other craft evenings.
And in February, you can visit Dunvegan Castle for Snowdrop Days, where you'll see the first buds in bloom. Attending any of these events is a great way to meet more local people and experience Skye life.
Photos by Hannah Morris
Taking a nature walk
When the weather isn't too wild, then taking a walk in winter is a wonderful thing. Whether it's along a rocky beach, a forest path, or across heather-strewn hills and lowlands, soaking in the peacefulness of Skye with a walk is a great thing to do.
Wildlife often makes itself more known, as deer venture further down from the hills looking for food, and eagles and other birds of prey circle looking for their next meal, too. In fact, you can find a great walk that starts in the centre of Portree outside Òr here.
Photos from Migrating Miss Instagram
Cosying up in the pub
While some restaurants and pubs close, plenty will open their doors to those wanting to warm up near a fire and have a hearty meal. Winter is a great time to linger over a meal and really enjoy it, as well as the company.’
Of course, a visit to Òr to stock up on knitwear should be a key part of your trip’s preparation, too!
If you’re dreaming of an escape to somewhere wild, quiet, and breathtakingly beautiful, winter on the Isle of Skye is calling. Layer up, and embrace the season.
For more tips from Sonja, you can visit her Facebook page here, or her Isle of Skye travel tips group.
