Òr's Ultimate Guide to the Isle of Skye
As shopkeepers, we’re often asked about our favourite spots for eating, drinking and walking on the island. So, we thought it was time to gather all of Òr’s recommendations into one easily-accessible place. Of course, this isn’t an exhaustive list; even for us locals, there’s still places we’re discovering on the island. But whether you live here or are visiting for a mini getaway, we hope you’ll find places you love in our guide.
Where to stay on the Isle of Skye?
Whether you’re more comfortable in a bed and breakfast or are a keen camper, there are so many options when it comes to accommodation on Skye.
BnBs & hotels
For those in search of a luxury option, there are a few places we’d recommend. The family-run Kinloch Lodge offers cosy fires, supremely comfortable beds, and only the best dining experiences with locally sourced, seasonal produce from an award-winning kitchen.
Situated on the edge of Loch Snizort, Mint Croft is another great choice for luxury accommodation. It offers two picturesque cottages for couples or small groups, ideal for those special occasions, and it’s just a stone’s throw from Skye’s only Michelin star restaurant.
Skye is replete with excellent Airbnbs, too. Òr team member Sophie may be a little biased, but the five-star reviews on her dad’s self-contained tiny house speak for themselves. But no matter where you find an Airbnb on the island, it's likely to impress with beautiful views, whether it be across lochs, mountains or croft land.
Photo: David Fleck
Camping on Skye
There are many wonderful spots for your tent or campervan here on Skye, like the ones in Portree and Staffin which are ideal for accessing some of the island’s most beautiful viewpoints. We think one of the best campsites is situated at Glenbrittle; it’s ideal for early risers who want to head out for a cold-water swim or hike to Coire Lagan.
Where to eat & drink?
Skye is certainly not short on places to enjoy a sit-down meal or a quick bite for brunch. Here are some of the Òr team’s non-negotiables.
Where to go for the best coffee and brunch on Skye?
We’re lucky that we have some wonderful cafes less than a two-minute walk from our shops here in Portree. Our usual go-tos are Birch, Summer, and of course, MacKenzie’s Bakery — where we might also pick up a cheeky doughnut or two!
Heading further afield, we recommend making a pitstop at Caora Coffee, just opposite Talisker Distillery in Carbost. Their brews and cakes are always delicious, and it’s the same coffee we stock in our shops, so you can rest assured that we’ve tested the real-deal and can highly recommend. The Oyster Shed, which is also nearby, has some of the best grab-and-go seafood on the island, too.
If your journey around Skye takes you to the north of the island, then Cafe Lephin is an excellent place to stop for lunch. During the cooler months, you can pull up a chair near their wood-burning stove and choose from a plethora of delights on their menu — from slabs of homemade cake to fresh soups and local ales.
Where to eat dinner on Skye?
When it comes to fine dining, Portree has plenty to offer. The Scorrybreac restaurant is a favourite of ours; with its local produce, it’s like tasting a piece of the island. Just a two-minute stroll around the corner is Cuchcullin Restaurant, famed for its delicious seafood platters.
As you head to the north-west of the island, you’ll find the Stein Inn — the oldest pub on Skye — which makes the most delicious food. The decor is packed with personality, and it has a few seats outdoors so you can take in the views with a cool pint to hand, weather permitting!
Though eateries in the north-east of the island are few and far between, there are a couple of excellent choices. Sales assistant Hannah recommends the Hungry Gull: “I’m gluten and dairy intolerant, but the Hungry Gull have options on their menu which cater for this —and they’re always delicious! Then if you don’t want to miss out on fish and chips but you need them to be gluten-free, there’s the Fisherman’s Kitchen which is just before you reach the island in Kyle of Lochalsh. Though it may take a while to get to, I can say with certainty that they do the most amazing gluten-free fish and chips!”
Things to see & do
Skye offers many beautiful spots to take in the views of its prehistoric landscape, but we’ve narrowed it down to a few of the team’s favourites. The grassy plateau along the Trotternish peninsula which takes you to Brother’s Point is a beautiful spot on Skye — it’s a coastal walk that’s not to be missed.
Though it’s a well-known place, we can’t have a guide to Skye without recommending a hike across to the lighthouse at Neist Point, the Fairy Pools, Old Man of Storr, and the Quiraing. But Òr team member Floss suggests approaching the latter from a different angle: “My partner and our dog Bertie love to start the Quiraing from Fingal’s Pinnacles — the trail boasts beautiful views across Loch Langaig and Loch Hasci. But make sure you wear sturdy, sensible footwear suitable for hiking as there are some rocky patches.”
Events on Skye
There’s always lots happening on our island, especially during the summer months. The Skye Live festival is always so much fun with a brilliant Scottish music line-up, and Highland Games take place every August in Portree, with the local pipe band parading through the town. Or, if it's a drizzly day outside, you can always enjoy a film in our local cinema at LAS or attend one of their fantastic gigs.
If you’re interested in trying your hand at something new, then we usually have one to two maker workshops at Òr each month which you can find more details about here. And, if you’re searching for local talent, then our sales assistant Stacey sings with her band in the local pubs every couple of months. You can check out her next gig over on her Facebook page.
Where to shop?
There are so many brilliant independent shops on the island and, of course, we will always recommend visiting us here at Òr as your first port, especially if you’re looking for that special gift for a friend back home or a little treat for yourself. But there are lots of other shops which offer beautiful products too, like The Selkie Collective in Broadford; a sustainable, refillable shop for all your pantry needs.
For avid knitters, then Shilasdair Yarns in Staffin is a must-visit. All the yarns are naturally hand-dyed on Skye and spun from British wool.
What to do with 24 hours on the Isle of Skye?
We asked the Òr team what their top choices would be if they only had a limited amount of time on the island.
Jen’s pick
Eat & drink: It has to be the Scorrybreac restaurant for dinner.
Must-see: A steady wander to the lighthouse at Waternish Point is a favourite of mine.
Andy & Laurie’s pick
Eat & drink: Dinner at Gasta for a wood-fired pizza and dog-friendly dining.
Must-see: An easy stroll along the Scorrybreac Trail.
Floss’s pick
Eat & drink: I love Cafe 1925 — their Guinness cake is amazing, and the service is always lovely.
Must-see: Of course, it has to be the Quiraing, but also Talisker Bay — it’s a nice gentle walk with amazing views.
Bertie’s pick
Eat & drink: Bog Myrtle cafe — they’re so pet friendly!
Must-see: Talisker Bay. The views are beautiful and it’s pretty flat, so it’s ideal for pups with short legs like me!
Hannah’s pick
Eat & drink: Summer cafe for their amazing focaccia sandwiches and cinnamon buns.
Must-see: Staffin Sea Sauna for a wild sea swim with the most amazing views.
Sophie’s pick
Eat & drink: Lean To cafe for a latte and excellent toasties.
Must-see: Waystone bookshop in Dunvegan — I’m all for a relaxed day out browsing for a few new novels.
Chris’s pick
Eat & drink: I love to start my weekends with brunch at Café Cùil.
Must-see: The Lookout Bothy is a favourite of mine. It’s just a short walk along the coast and has stunning views.
Stacey’s pick
Eat & drink: Head to Untethered cafe for a hot drink and a chance to feed the farmer’s Highland cows.
Must-see: A stroll and a swim at Coral Beach is the best way to relax for me.
For more tips on where to go on our island, you can find advice in the Best of Isle of Skye book. And, if you’re planning a trip anytime soon, we also recommend reading our Conscientious Guide to Skye which covers ways to help us preserve the land and community spirit on our island.
