Skye is the largest island off the Scottish west coast being some 50 miles from north to south and between 7 and 25 miles east to west. The island is cut by deep sea lochs producing a winged appearance and hence has led to one of its Gaelic names of An t-Eilean Sgiathanach deriving from 'Sgiath', a wing. However to more modern writers the isle is known as Eilean a’ Cheò, or the Misty Isle. Due to the winged form of Skye no point on the Island is more than 5 miles from the coast.

The northern peninsulas of Skye, Waternish and Duirinish are renowned for their wild and desolate moorland, while Trotternish is home to some of Skye's unique and bizarre rock structures which form the backbone of the isle. In the far south of the isle, Sleat is renowned for its fertility and richness and hence has become known as the Garden of Skye.

The central region of Skye is renowned for some of the most impressive mountains in the UK. The Red and Black Cuillin straddle the island providing a climbers' and walkers' paradise with walks for all levels of skill and expertise. Whether you want the exhilaration of the Cuillin traverse or a more gentle walk in one of the many Glens and coastal paths then this area of Skye is ideal.

The weather on Skye is often exaggerated. There are many days of still, calm and clear weather to show the magnificence of the island. Sure, the fact that the island is exposed to prevailing south-westerly winds means that it receives its fair share of rainfall otherwise why would it be called the Misty Isle? However to some this diversity of weather increases their attraction of the isle and so on a brooding, misty day why not stay in the warm comfortable cottage in front of the wood burning stove and simply relax as the weather passes on by.

Elgol & Strathaird

Elgol is situated on the coast amongst this most impressive of sights with uninterrupted views to the Small Isles of Canna, Eigg and Rum. The view from the beach at Elgol looking up Loch Scavaig to the Black Cuillin is arguably one of the most impressive on the Isle. The region of Elgol is steeped in history and more details can be found here for those wanting more information.

There are many places to visit in and around Elgol. A trip to see the Spar Cave near the village of Glasnakille would have you walking in the steps of Sir Walter Scott, or perhaps a visit to Prince Charles Cave at the end of the Strathaird peninsula where the Bonnie Prince hid after the infamous battle of Culloden. However, be sure to check the tides as both are only accessible at low tide.

 

The ruined castle of Dun Ringill was the ancestral home of the Clan Mackinnnon before moving to Kyleakin and definitely worth a visit.

The Cuillin View Gallery and Cafe is worth a visit to see local artist work and the view of the Cuillin from here is spectacular. There are also many walks in and around Elgol which are suitable for all abilities and ages

A walk to the jetty from the cottages is recommended to see the fine views or take a boat trip to see the views close up.

 

Elgol is reached by the B8083 from Broadford. The journey takes approximately 30 minutes and you will find breath taking views of the mountains, the sea and the Small Isles around every corner. Portree, Skye's capital is only a 45 minute drive from Elgol. You will find shops, restaurants, petrol at either Broadford or Portree and a small Post Office and shop at Elgol will mean that you will not need to worry about supplies. There are very many restaurants on Skye catering for varied tastes.  

We would like to thank Glasgow University Mountaineering Club and Cailean Maclean of Skye-Media for permission to use the above images