Isle of Skye - 3 day itinerary
Motorhome Travel to the Isle of Skye - A Complete 3-Day Itinerary
With staggering mountains and rock formations, striking scenery, crystal clear waters, and quaint medieval castles, the Isle of Skye has plenty of epic attractions that beckon road trippers from across the world. While its natural beauty and landmarks are its most outstanding features, visitors will also be impressed by the history of the dinosaurs that once roamed the Isle of Skye as well as the influential Vikings that arrived on the Skye around the end of the 8th century.
With so many places to see when visiting this otherworldly gem, it can be challenging to narrow down exactly where to go, what to see, and how to get there. Below, we have created the perfect 3-day Isle of Skye itinerary. This post highlights the best route to take, the major attractions along the way, as well as the hidden gems to discover.
A Few Words on the Isle of Skye
The Isle of Skye, or Cloud Island in Old Norse, is situated off the west coast of Scotland and is the largest island in the Inner Hebrides. It spans 50 miles long and 25 miles wide and occupies a total area of 639 square miles.
With impeccable scenery, a fascinating history, and thriving local tradition, Skye has something for every type of adventurer. You will appreciate the soaring peaks, impressive array of hiking routes, fairy tale waterfalls and pools, wondrous sea caves, and incredible wildlife. You’ll also discover picturesque fishing villages, dinosaur fossils, ruins of Viking houses, clan warfare stories, and old castles.
Skye is connected to Scotland’s northwest coast by the Skye Bridge (along the A87), north of Kyle of Lochalsh. Instead of heading over the bridge, you can also drive to the stunning little port of Mallaig and take a ferry ride over to Armadale. Although when travelling by Motorhome, the easiest option to get on to the Island is by driving across the Skye Bridge.
Is The Isle of Skye Route Suitable for Motorhome Hires?
Without a doubt, the Isle of Skye route is perfect for exploring in a motorhome hire. In fact, the best way to soak in the gorgeous sites is through motorhome travel. The route is lined with campsites suitable for those who prefer staying near major attractions or off the grid.
However, MH campsites and facilities in Skye are limited and do fill up, so you will need to book your site in advance. While it’s possible to drive around in a larger motorhome, a compact camper is a better option since many roads are narrow single-tracks that can get congested in the peak travel season.
Not sure where to hire a motorhome in Scotland? Our site allows you to book a motorhome near Glasgow. We have over 8 different layouts of luxury motorhomes available, capable of accommodating between two and five people. We’re located only 12 minutes from Glasgow airport, it’s the perfect place to hire a motorhome to tour Scotland!
Your 3-Day Isle of Skye Itinerary
While you can literally drive around the Isle of Skye in half a day, a multi-day trip is the best way to experience its diverse offerings. After picking your motorhome rental in Glasgow, make your way to Portree, then use this 3-day Isle of Skye road trip itinerary.
Day 1: Broadford or Portree to Dunvegan
We would recommend staying at Camping Skye in Broadford when you arrive on Skye, it’s a nice clean site with friendly staff. On the first day, rise early to enjoy a crisp morning drive up to Portree where you can stop for a hearty breakfast at The Red Brick Café @ Jans.
Portree is the cultural hub of Skye and is 5-6 hours away from our base in Langbank near Glasgow Airport, and roughly 45 minutes North of Broadford. Although it’s not big, it’s large when compared to the rest of the little villages and towns on the island. Alternatively, if you want to start your tour of Skye from Portree, we recommend staying at Portree campsite, located about 1.5 miles North East from the town centre. On D-day, make sure you rise early and kick-start your day with a hearty Scottish breakfast at the town.
● Your first destination will be the Old Man of Storr, a group of majestic rocks, which legends say are fingers of a dead giant. Depart Portree and steer your mobile abode along the A855, within about 15 minutes you’ll be at the Old Man of Storr car park. From the parking area, it’s a 45-minute (one-way) hike to the rocks on a muddy trail, so remember your hiking boots. The place forms a great iconic backdrop for your Instagram pictures.
● Next, head to Lealt Falls car park along A855, just10 minutes away. Follow the walking path that leads to a magnificent waterfall that drips down a 90-meter gorge.
● If you’re exhausted after the Storr hike, you can skip Lealt Falls and drive towards Kilt Rock and Mealt Falls further up A855. Kilt Rock is a cluster of age-old cliffs in Portree that look like the traditional pleated kilt, while Mealt Falls is a 55-meter tall cascade plunging from the staggering cliff into the sea below.
● Another must-visit spot is Quiraing. It’s a two-hour round-trip hike, but it’s incredibly rewarding. Here, ancient landslides have forged a series of otherwordly cliffs, jagged pinnacles, and concealed plateaus. Those not willing to walk the entire way can head 15-20 minutes up the trail, and you’ll still be able to capture the mesmerising views.
● Please note, the road over the Quiraing is single track, so make sure the road is clear and drive carefully, be courteous to other vehicles and pull in to passing places whenever you see oncoming vehicles.
● If you don’t feel comfortable driving over the Quiraing or have chosen not to do the Quiraing loop walk, continue driving round the coastal road and visit the Skye Museum of Island Life. Opened in 1965, this place is fascinating and will take you back in time, helping you understand what life was like for islanders. You’ll find traditionally thatched cottages and appreciate the Intricate exhibits and sweeping vistas of the countryside.
● Your final stop of the day is the magical landscape of Fairy Glen (not to be confused with the Fairy Pools) near the village of Uig. Here, time has sculpted weird and enchanting geological formations. One of the tallest hills resembles a man-made fort, earning the name Castle Ewan.
● When you’re done with the day activities, continue South down the A87 and turn West along the A850 to reach Dunvegan. A nice place to park your motorhome for the night is the family-run Kinloch Campsite on the waters edge.
Day 2: Dunvegan to Glenbrittle
Dunvegan is one of the larger villages on Skye. It's best known for Dunvegan Castle, seat of the chief of Clan MacLeod. After properly resting for the night, arise and enjoy a sizeable morning meal at The Waterside Cafe Bistro. With a full tummy, you’re ready for the following day’s activities.
● Head North a few minutes out of Dunvegan, and you’ll be at our first stop—Dunvegan Castle. Set in a glorious backdrop, this stone fortress is the earliest continuously occupied castle in Scotland. It has been the ancestral home of the Chiefs of clan MacLeod for over eight centuries, and descendants of the clan still live in the castle today. Some of its highlights include monumental oil paintings, ceremonial clan treasures, and beautiful gardens. You could spend around 2 hours exploring the place.
● From here, take the road South back through Dunvegan and turn West along the B884 road, and you’ll arrive at Neist Point, just 40 minutes away. This is the most Westerly point of Skye with an impressive cliff edge of land pointing out into the sea with the famous picturesque lighthouse on the tip. It’s a great stop, especially for those who want to try get a glimpse of whales and basking sharks. You’ll also enjoy the lovely clifftop walk; just be careful and don’t walk to near the edges. If you walk up to the viewp[oint or even further North, you’ll get a breathtaking view back across to the lighthouse.
● End your day at Talisker Distillery, an unmissable highlight of the Isle of Skye. It rests on the shore of a Loch Harport and offers opportunities to see wildlife. This distillery is the oldest on the island, and its single malt whisky is world-famous. Tour the facility to get a unique insight into their activities, and finish up with a sample if you’re not driving.
● Then enjoy the 25-30 minute drive over to Glenbrittle, where you will spend the night at the Glenbrittle Campsite and Cafe., it’s a fantastic location at the end of the road with the iconic Cuillin hills behind the site and a beautiful sea view in front. It’s such a tranquil and peaceful location.
Day 3: Glenbrittle to Broadford
Glenbrittle itself is at the end of a stunning valley with a river meandering at the bottom and draining into the sea. This area is remote, so don’t expect amenities. It’s mainly used as a base to explore the Black Cuillin range and surrounding attractions.
● First up are the world famous Fairy Pools, situated just ten minutes from the campsite. They are essentially a long series of small waterfalls and beautiful crystal blue pools rushing from the Black Cuillin range. They are so luminous and pristine, you’ll think fairies have actually bathed in them. The path from the Fairy Pools carpark to these gems takes around 40 minutes from the parking area, we recommend setting off early from the campsite so you can enjoy the area before the mass of tourists flow in (It can get very busy), you’ll want to allow a good 2 hours or more for a walk over and to enjoy the area, you can even take a dip in the pools, so take your swimming costume or wet suit if it’s the colder months.
Option 1:
● Next up, head back to your campsite or the parking area by the beach, park your MH and don your hiking boots. Your next activity is to attempt the boggy Rubh’ an Dùnain—a remote land largely hidden from public view for more than 160 years. This hike will reveal dramatic scenery and diverse wildlife and is home to fascinating Neolithic, Mesolithic, Medieval, and Viking history. It takes 4 to 6 hours to complete the hike.
● Hit the A863 highway for 30 minutes until you reach the Sligachan Old Bridge. Here you’ll get to witness a picture-perfect view. Below the captivating stone bridge flows the River Sligachan. It's said that its cold waters grant eternal beauty to whoever dips their face in it. The Sligachan village is a hub for adventurous campers looking to climb the Red and Black Cuillin mountains. You could enjoy a fulfilling meal in the Sligachan Hotel at the end of the day.
● Sligachan also has a campsite so it’s a great place to finish up for the day.
Option 2:
● Alternatively if you’re not feeling up to the hike, we would recommend taking a drive round to Elgol. Here, you can take a Misty Isle boat trip which leaves for Loch Coruisk. Aboard, you’ll see the wildlife and spend some downtime ashore to walk around the isolated and beautiful loch sitting under the Black Cuillin ridge.
● Finally, take the 30–40-minute drive back to Broadford. Broadford is a beautiful tranquil town and the second largest settlement in Skye. You can stay at Camping Skye (possibly again if you stopped here for the night on arriving to Skye).
On departing the Isle of Skye we recommend visiting Eilean Donan Castle, an iconic castle that’s been featured in a few blockbuster movies.
Happy Motorhoming in the Isle of Skye
There you have it, the ultimate 3-day itinerary for visiting the Isle of Skye. We hope it will whip up your appetite for visiting this enchanting destination. For the best experience and flexibility, travel in a motorhome. Feel free to contact the Freedom Motorhomes team to discuss the best options for hiring a luxury motorhome from our base near Glasgow, to drive up and tour the Isle of Skye. It’s a beautiful drive up from our base, and we can recommend some great options for a night or two on the way up or down as well.