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
Gallery
Itinerary
Day 1 Arrive Armadale and overnightThe 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.
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.
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 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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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 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 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.
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.
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 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 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.
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.
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 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 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.
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.Â
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 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 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.
After breakfast, bid farewell to the Isle of Skye and make your onward journey, or contact us to extend your stay in the Highlands & Islands.Â
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.
Other Information
Is it for me?This is a challenging walk suited for experienced long distance walkers. Several days involve considerable ascent and descent and many of the trails are rough underfoot. A head of heights is a must, as there are sections of this walk along cliff tops. It is also recommended you have some experience dealing with river crossings. If you are confident with the above and are comfortable navigating on trackless terrain, you will be rewarded with quiet trails and unrivalled views of some of the finest scenery in Scotland.
Classic Routes | If you’re the active, outdoorsy type, who’s interested in taking on the great routes of the world or looking for a challenge, then our Classic Routes are for you. We’re talking the West Highland Way in Scotland, the world renown Tour Du Mont Blanc and Germany's Moselle Cycle Path, to name but a few!
Inn to Inn Walking | Walk from place-to-place changing accommodations each night. Generally staying in B&Bs, inns, and guesthouses.
Islands
The minimum age for this tour is: 16 Years
This route is graded strenuous as it passes through remote country and some days include considerable ascent and descent. Although some of the route follows good paths and minor roads much of the route is on rough ground that can be wet underfoot and completely trackless in places.Â
One of the highlights of this tour is the high standard of the accommodation. You will stay in carefully selected 3 or 4 star B&B’s, guesthouses, country pubs and small hotels. Your room will always have an en-suite or private bathroom and a delicious breakfast is always included.
Solo Walkers & Single Rooms
This independent walking holiday is not available to solo walkers. If you require single rooms in your party we will of course try to accommodate your request, subject to availability. Please note that singles may not be of the same standard as twins/doubles.Accommodation Location
We will always try and accommodate you at the locations detailed in the itinerary, but because of limited availability we may have to accommodate you at an alternative location. Alternative details will be noted on your accommodation sheet.Meals
A hearty breakfast is included each morning. Lunch and dinner are not included so you are free to choose from the available options. Most of your accommodations will more than happy to provide a packed lunch on request and this can be booked on arrival. Alternatively your info pack includes details of local shops and convenient lunch stops on the way. Dinner is available either at your accommodation or nearby pubs and restaurants and your info pack will of course have details.This route is not waymarked and much of it does not follow a path so you will need to be a competent navigator and know how to use a map and compass for back-up. However, we supply detailed route notes and GPX tracks for each day on our Macs Adventure smartphone navigation app. It is essential you download the GPX tracks for 'offline' use as many sections of this walk are without phone signal.Â
- 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
- Travel to the start or from the finish of the walk
- Lunches, dinners, snacks & drinks
- Personal equipment
- Travel insurance (required)
- Additional nights along the route
The season runs from April to September and you can begin your holiday on any day of the week. If you intend to arrive/depart Skye by public transport do make sure this fits around your travels plans. Bus and ferry timetables are limited especially on weekends and during the shoulder season. Outside of May-September some museums and attractions have limited opening hours and some restaurants may stop serving food earlier so make sure to check before you arrive to avoid disappointment.Â
The weather in Scotland is variable all year round, but generally speaking May and September are the driest months. In mid-late October the weather will begin to cool significantly, but with the appropriate clothing these make for pleasant walking temperatures. "Summer" temperatures on the island vary between around 10-22 degrees celcius, but even in the height of summer it's best to prepare for all seasons.Â
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:Â Â 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.Â
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.
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.Â
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.
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.
Traditionally April/May has always been the most popular time of year because the theory goes that the weather is better and the midges have not yet appeared. Although having walked the way in every summer month I believe any time between March and October offers a wonderful experience.
Midges are small biting insects (much like north American knats) which are prevalent in the summer months. They are particularly bad on still, overcast days but do not bother you if you are moving, the wind is blowing, sun is shining, it’s raining, or you are inside so as long as you carry repellent for the odd occasion you may need it they shouldn’t have any impact on your experience.
Unfortunately we are unable to accommodate walkers with dogs as many of the accommodation providers we use do not accept pets and several sections of the way are closed to dogs as they are permissive paths through farm land.
You can use public transport, local taxis or our baggage van may be able to move you to the next overnight stop. Full details are included in your info pack.
A Long Walk on the Isle of Skye is our most challenging walking holiday in Scotland and you need a good level of hill fitness, especially for the northern section. If you currently don’t enjoy that level of fitness regular walking in hilly terrain supplemented by cardio vascular exercise for at least 6 months prior to your walk is recommended. A good gym or personal trainer will be able to draw up a personalised training programme.
Yes, the walk is not waymarked and passes through high mountain areas with vague paths and you will need to be a competent navigator with map and compass. The navigation on the Trotternish Ridge can be extremely challenging in poor visibility.
We suggest you book as soon as you can as the Isle of Skye is extremely popular over the summer months. You will find up to date availability on our website and we will always try and accommodate your plans.
You will need good walking boots (ideally waterproof), comfortable walking clothes, waterproof jacket and trousers, a daypack and hats/gloves etc.
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Why Macs
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Founded in 2003
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At Macs, we don’t do tour buses, groups, or guides. Instead, we give you the freedom and confidence to have your own self-guided hiking or biking adventure.
This is active travel led by you.
You choose your departure date and who you travel with, we do the rest.
We sort accommodation and luggage transfers and provide your route in an easy-to-use app.
We give you everything you need to travel independently but we're here 24/7 if you need us.
Getting from A to B under your own steam is intensely rewarding. With Macs, you'll see the world, and yourself, differently.