Driving to Skye
No matter which route you take, you will travel through some stunning scenery on your way to Skye. Take your time and enjoy the journey. Allow around 2 hours to drive from Inverness to the Skye Bridge or 6 hours to drive from Glasgow to Portree.
Once you get away from the cities the roads are spectacular, generally empty, well signposted and dotted with good places to take a break. For many visitors the relaxed driving experience is an important part of their holiday.
SAT NAV WARNING - your in-car sat nav will very likely give you a route (from the south) via the Mallaig to Armadale ferry. This is a lovely route to take, but can involve a long wait at the ferry terminal. It is slightly further, but usually quicker, to drive up to Kyle of Lochalsh and cross the bridge to Skye.
Over the Sea to Skye
You still go 'Over the sea to Skye', though most visitors use the toll-free bridge linking Kyle of Lochalsh (mainland) with Kyleakin. Ferry services to Skye from the mainland run from Mallaig (mainland) to Armadale, and (summer only) a small private car ferry runs from Glenelg (mainland) to Kylerhea.
Ferries also connect Uig (Skye) with Lochmaddy (North Uist), and Tarbert (Harris). A further ferry connects Sconser (Skye) with the Isle of Raasay
By Coach to Skye
The main coach routes to Skye start from Glasgow and Inverness. Edinburgh has a summer only service. There are usually morning/midday/afternoon services each day, each way. Coach travel is a very good way to take in the scenery.
By Train to Kyle of Lochalsh
The closest you can get to Skye by train is Kyle of Lochalsh on the mainland end of the Skye Bridge. The railway route is very scenic - some would say worth a trip in its own right. The train starts at Inverness which is easily accessible from stations around the UK.
By Plane to Edinburgh, Glasgow and Inverness
Edinburgh and Glasgow International Airports are serviced by many airports around the World and the UK. Both cities are good places to begin and end a holiday in Scotland.
The domestic airport at Inverness, capital of the Highlands and Skye's nearest city, is serviced by several airports around the UK. Good coach/rail links and car hire make Inverness the perfect place to start your visit to the Highlands and Skye
Car Hire
If you don't bring your own car, you will find that a car is pretty much essential for getting round the island. Cars may be hired in Portree or Inverness. |
