On the Isle of Skye there’s so much to see and you will inevitably have heard of these famous places (along with everyone else…)

• The Old Man of Storr is a great hike but not recommended for smaller children or anyone unable to negotiate slippery terrain. If you approach from the south it is actually visible at a distance from the road. The legend of the rock was inspired by a giant (the rock thought to be his thumb) and the epic landscape features in a famous children’s film about a giant, The BFG.
• Kilt Rock is a huge waterfall that drops dramatically over high cliffs and into the sea.
• The Fairy Pools are extremely popular, especially in summer months – a winding river with natural pools that are clear and mesmerising. With the rise in popularity of wild swimming, many visitors even enjoy a refreshing dip in the chilly waters!
• The Fairy Glen has mystifying rock swirls amidst a landscape of unusual looking mounds. Imagine yourself in a magical land of fairies and be transported back to childhood again.
• The Cuillin mountains – these impressive mountains attract walkers and climbers from all over the globe. The famous Cuillin Ridge is more akin to an alpine style ridge walk than anything else you’ll find in the UK and is not for the feint hearted.  The Inaccessible Pinnacle is notoriously the most difficult of the Scottish Munros and requires expert level rock climbing and abseiling skills to attempt. Beginners can experience The Cuillins by walking towards the foothills along the footpath from the Sligachan Hotel.
• The Quirraing – a distinct, beautiful and mountainous landscape with walking and hiking options for all levels.

But if you’re looking for something a little more ‘off the beaten track’ then here are some suggestions from the locals themselves.

• A fantastic alternative to the overcrowded Fairy Pools is the ‘Torrin Pools.’ Every bit as beautiful and lovely for swimming. Take a left turn in Broadford and head for Torrin. After Amy’s cafe, look out for where the road crosses a stream and park in the layby on the left, by the sea.  Across the road, just follow the river up the hill to find fab swimming pools and waterfalls.
• Don’t forget, you can also wild swim off Eilean Sionnach!
• The village of Isleornsay itself is very picturesque. Heading south from Isleornsay you will reach Armadale, where you can take a ferry trip across to Mallaig.  On the way to Armadale you’ll pass Armadale Castle, which has lovely grounds (although there isn’t much of a castle). Also within the grounds is the Museum of the Isles.
• Take the ‘Ord Loop’ which is a very picturesque back road with spectacular views of the Cuillin Mountains. You’ll see it signposted as you head south to Armadale.  The loop brings you back out onto the same road, close to Armadale.
• Visit An Crubh, a beautiful architect designed café and shop on the edge of the village. An Crubh is doing a basic range of takeaway food on a Friday and Saturday night – call in advance to book a time slot for collection. Their number is: 01471 833417.
• Also in South Skye you can head to the Otter Hyde at Kylereah for wildlife spotting. Take a walk to the old settlement at Leitr Fura, which is in a Forestry Commission forest behind Kinloch Lodge It’s a lovely walk with wonderful views. You’ll pass the turning when you’re heading to the village of Broadford.
• Kinloch Hotel is open for lunch, afternoon tea and dinner bookings. They’re also offering a Sunday Roast service (booking in advance is required for all sittings).
• In the local area there’s a kayaking company (South Skye Sea Kayaks), wild swimming tour guide (Soak up Skye) and a walking and biking guide (Skye MTB Adventures). Please contact us if you need any further help getting in touch with one of these activity organisers or don’t manage to find their Facebook page/website.

But if peace and quiet is what you are really searching for then look no further than our lighthouse cottage, Eilean Sionnach. Nestled on a private island accessible only by boat during high tide, it doesn’t get more secluded than this. Eilean Sionnach is a destination in itself so we recommend making time in your schedule to experience the island and take in the majestic scenery from the hill behind the house. We provide picnic blankets and a portable fire pit, you will have to provide your own whisky!

Adventure awaits…