Skye Trail: Guide to the Isle of Skye trail in Scotland – stages, accommodation and route
- Christian Sommer
- Apr 12, 2023
- 26 min read
Updated: 6 days ago
The Skye Trail takes you along remote paths through the rugged Scottish Highlands of the Isle of Skye. On this fascinating trail, you will cross the hills of Trotternish Ridge, hike past the imposing rocks of Quiraing and along numerous coastal cliffs. Experience breathtaking views and picturesque landscapes, often shrouded in mystical mist. In this article, you will find all the information you need to plan carefully and hike safely. I will introduce each stage in detail and show you all the highlights so that you don't miss a thing.
Contents
1. Getting there
2. Route
3. Stages
4. Accommodation
5. Further information
6. Experiences
7. Packing list
8. GPX and map information
9. Conclusion
The Skye Trail at a glance
Length: approx. 130 km (80 miles)
Duration: 5–7 days, depending on fitness and stage planning
Elevation gain: approx. 3,500 m
Difficulty: Moderate in good weather, challenging to difficult in bad weather. Unmarked trails, steep and precipitous terrain; sure-footedness and confident navigation with a map or GPS are required.
Landscape: Dramatic coastal cliffs, Trotternish Ridge, Quiraing, Old Man of Storr, Sligachan Old Bridge, Sligachan Waterfalls, Cullin Mountains and the Torrin Pools.
Highlights: Spectacular views, coastal sections, intense wilderness feeling, wildlife viewing (birds, seals), the Bad Step and Portree.
Accommodation: Mainly wild camping, campsites, bothies and permanent accommodation in places such as Portree, Sligachan and Broadford.
Best direction: North to south recommended, but also possible in the opposite direction.
Requirements: Very good physical condition, no fear of heights, experience in mountain hiking, safe navigation and robust equipment. The weather can change quickly at any time.
Official starting point: Red telephone box near Duntulm in the north of the Isle of Skye.
Waymarking: The Skye Trail is not officially signposted; a map and GPS are essential.
Weather: Extremely changeable. Even supposedly easy sections can be dangerous in fog and poor visibility. Use of the Windy app for weather monitoring is recommended.
Midges: Midges occur in large numbers, especially at dusk, when there is no wind and when it is cloudy. A fine head net is useful.
Trail conditions: Many pathless passages, muddy ground and unpaved paths – expect a slow walking speed overall.
As always, I recommend my video about the Isle of Skye Trail:
Skye Trail how to get there
Getting to the Skye Trail is straightforward and easy to plan. The easiest way to reach Scotland is by plane, and then you can continue your journey to the Skye Trail comfortably by long-distance bus.
Flight: The best option is to fly to Edinburgh, Glasgow or Inverness. There are long-distance buses from all three cities that go directly to Portree. My experience is based on Edinburgh Airport, as this was the most convenient for me in terms of time and price. I had also always wanted to see Edinburgh – after all, it is considered one of the most beautiful cities in Europe. I recommend planning two extra days for Edinburgh. To find cheap flights, I highly recommend Skyscanner – a first-class app that gives you a quick overview of the best flight deals.
At Edinburgh Airport, take bus 100 from bus stop A to the city centre, ideally to Princes Street, Edinburgh EH2 4AD.
Tip: There is a Mountain Warehouse near Princes Street where you can buy gas cartridges. However, you should check the opening hours and stock availability by phone beforehand. The Mountain Warehouse is only a few minutes' walk from Edinburgh Bus Station (Megabus, Citylink), practically around the corner. From there, you can take the bus to Portree.
Bus: Then walk to Edinburgh Bus Station (Megabus Citylink). From there, you can take the bus to Portree. The bus journey takes about 8 hours and goes via Inverness. In Inverness, you have to change buses at the same bus station. I highly recommend the OMIO app for booking bus tickets.
Tip: Pay attention to the price when buying tickets – you may be able to take advantage of an Explorer discount. I received good advice at the information desk and was able to save some money.
The official starting point for the Skye Trail
The official starting point is at the red telephone box in Duntulm.
Before you start, you have to decide which direction you want to walk the Skye Trail:
Options:
North → South: Start at the red telephone box
South → North: Start in Broadford
My recommendation: Hike from north to south. In Broadford, you can get a cheap room and take another shower before departure.
Loch Ness: On the bus ride to Portree, you will pass the legendary Loch Ness, which was a special highlight for me. As we circled Loch Ness, I indulged in childhood memories and thought about the many fascinating stories about ‘Nessie’. Along the way, you will also see numerous impressive castles and fortresses – so keep your eyes open, it's worth it!
Campsite: For your first night in Portree, I highly recommend the free ‘Skye Live Campsite’. Please note, however, that there are no sanitary facilities or other amenities. The campsite consists solely of a secluded meadow, but offers wonderful peace and quiet.
If you prefer to stay in permanent accommodation, there are several options available in Portree. Alternatively, you can also stay at the Portree Campsite!
Tip: Book your hotel or hostel early, as accommodation often gets booked up quickly.
Skye Trail route
The Skye Trail is 130 km long in total and is usually hiked in 7 days. I completed the route in five days, which was quite strenuous. For hikers who want to enjoy the landscape at a leisurely pace, I recommend 7 days.
The trail is an unofficial long-distance hiking trail that was developed by local hikers. It connects existing paths on the Isle of Skye to form a continuous route. It is now considered an official long-distance hiking trail, and there is plenty of literature and hiking guides available.
Waymarkers on the Skye Trail
The Skye Trail is still not marked throughout, but the paths are well trodden and easy to follow, at least in good weather. However, in thick fog or in the dark, it can be much more difficult to find your way.
Skye Trail difficulty
The difficulty of the Skye Trail is rated as moderate. However, in bad weather, conditions can change quickly and dramatically. There is a certain risk of falling, especially in poor visibility. Most of the trail runs over gentle terrain, and you will rarely encounter steep terrain. There is one easy climbing section to negotiate. In bad weather, it can be a little tricky to find this section, so I have marked the spot here.
My trail report does not cover the ‘Bad Step’, which is classified as T5 and considered dangerous. I will explain how you can still pass this section safely later in the article. There you will also find a video about the Bad Step.
Wild camping on the Skye Trail route
In Scotland, the ‘Right to Roam’ applies, a legally enshrined right for everyone. It allows you to hike on undeveloped land and also to camp wild, as long as you treat nature with respect, do not leave any rubbish behind and avoid private property. Use your common sense to find a place where you will not disturb anyone.
Remember to insure your trip well – because a fall or other typical hiking injury can quickly result in high rescue costs. Auras Insurance offers you worldwide hiking and trekking insurance, specially designed for active travellers.
Use the discount code HIKINGFEX to get 10% off your insurance.
Skye Trail stages
The Skye Trail can be divided into seven stages. I completed the tour in five days, taking advantage of the freedom of wild camping. I stayed in a room in Portree and Broadford.
For a more relaxed version, I recommend staying in a room in Portree, Sligachan and Broadford. There you can take a break, dry your equipment and enjoy a shower. Sporty hikers can alternatively divide the trail into five sections of approximately 27 kilometres each. In terms of altitude, each stage remains below 1,200 metres, which makes the tour pleasantly feasible. As wild camping is permitted, you can hike until you are tired and then simply pitch your tent. A wonderful feeling of freedom!
My recommendation: If you want to experience all the highlights, plan for 7 days, with a mix of wild camping and fixed accommodation in Portree, Sligachan and Broadford.
Classic:
Stage 1: Rubha Hunish (red telephone box) - Flodigarry (17 km and 360 m ascent)
Stage 2: Flodigarry – Old Man of Storr (23 km and 1130 m ascent)
Stage 3: Old Man of Storr – Portree (20 km and 330 m ascent)
Stage 4: Portree – Sligachan (20 km and 180 m ascent)
Stage 5: Sligachan – Camasunary Bothy (13 km and 100 m ascent)
Stage 6: Camasunary Bothy – Torrin (23 km and 400 m ascent)
Stage 7: Torrin – Broadford (20 km and 300 m ascent)
Skye Trail accommodation
There is a wide range of accommodation along the Skye Trail, from cosy guesthouses and hotels to wild camping. During my hike, I spoke to numerous other hikers and received valuable tips and recommendations. I would therefore like to recommend the following accommodation in particular.
Bothies on the Skye Trail
At Rubha Hunish (shortly after the starting point) and shortly before Elgol, there is a bothy (Camasunary Bothy) where you can stay overnight. However, there is no food available for purchase there – the huts are freely available to hikers and are simply equipped.
Tip: Book your hotel or hostel early, as they tend to fill up very quickly.
Stage 1: Floodygarry
Stage 2: Old Man of Storr
Wildcamping
Stage 3: Portree
Stage 4: Sligachan
Stage 5: Elgol
Stage 6: Torrin
Stage 7: Broadford
Camping Skye
Skye Trail guide
In this guide, I will introduce you to each stage of the Skye Trail in detail. My experiences are as varied as the hike itself. Since most people navigate with their smartphones these days, I will spare you detailed route descriptions. Instead, I will focus on insider tips and special highlights along the way and at the end of each stage.
Stage 1: Rubha Hunish (red telephone box) – Flodigarry (17 km and 360 m ascent)
The morning began in the tent with the gentle sounds of birds and the scent of fresh grass. Outside, it was still quiet, with only the chirping of crickets and the splashing of a nearby stream to be heard. I prepared myself for a great day outdoors and enjoyed the feeling of freedom and adventure. I hope you experience similar impressions on your hike.
It's best to start your day early and head to the bus station in the centre of Portree. Take the bus towards Duntulm Castle and get off at the old, dilapidated red telephone box, where the Skye Trail officially begins. You can tell the bus driver that you want to hike the Skye Trail – he will then drop you off at the right place. Before you start your hike, take a detour to Duntulm Castle and take a look at the ruins.
Then hike up to the Rubha Hunish refuge and enjoy the view. Via a more challenging T4 path, you have the opportunity to reach another viewpoint. Next, you will reach a beautiful beach and St. Molaug's Church.
The trail continues along the imposing cliffs to another viewpoint. A little later, you will reach Stealla Ghreip Waterfall, which flows directly into the sea. From there, it is not far to Floodygarry, where you will find permanent accommodation and a campsite.
Tip: In good weather, you can spend the night on top of the hill and experience a breathtaking sunset and a spectacular sunrise – an absolutely spine-tingling experience! To do this, continue hiking to Meall na Suiramach or towards Sgurr Mor.
Tip: In Flodyiarry, there is a restaurant in the hotel where you can have dinner!
As there is no shade on the entire Skye Trail and you are also permanently exposed to the movement of the air, I recommend my beloved "Piz Buin Mountain" sun cream, as well as my ultra-light sun cap and wind blocker.
"The sun also shines behind the clouds." Quote from Karl Friedrich Wilhelm Wander
Stage 2: Flodigarry – Old Man of Storr (23 km and 1,130 m ascent)
The first thing I saw when I looked out of my tent was a bright blue sky. I crawled out, took a deep breath of the fresh morning air and enjoyed that feeling of freedom and adventure once again. After a cup of tea and a light breakfast, I packed my things and got ready for the new day. Now it was time to gather my strength for the upcoming climb.
It's a sweaty climb up and down the hills, along a magnificent panoramic trail. In good weather, I would classify this passage as easy, but in bad weather or fog, it would be challenging. Then you have to pay special attention to possible fall zones.
Right at the start, the impressive rock formations in Quiraing await you. There are also two beautiful viewpoints that are definitely worth seeing. A little later, you cross Quiraing Road at the car park, where another great viewpoint awaits you.
The trail then follows Trotternish Ridge, an incredibly beautiful panoramic trail. There is a small climbing section here, which I have marked on the map. In bad weather, special caution is required, as you will also need to use your hands. In thick fog, it can also be difficult to find the right and easiest place to descend.
Shortly before the Old Man of Storr, you can pitch your tent or book a room near the road.
Tip: For sunset or sunrise, I recommend climbing the 719 m high ‘The Storr’. Enjoy the mystical atmosphere there!
Tip: It is best to view the rock needles of the Old Man of Storr the next morning. In the afternoon, there are often many visitors here, which significantly detracts from the atmosphere. Therefore, start as soon as possible after sunrise and explore the entire area around the Old Man of Storr – there is much to discover there.
Due to the long distance and the sweaty altitude difference, I would like to recommend my ultra-light hiking gear at this point:
I would also like to recommend my beloved Salewa trekking shoes because of the challenging mountain trails:
"Only where you have been on foot have you really been". Quote Johann Wolfgang von Goethe
Stage 3: Old Man of Storr – Portree (20 km and 330 m ascent)
A morning in the mountains overlooking the coast is simply breathtaking. The morning dew glistens on leaves and grass, while the sky is often still covered by a light haze. Slowly, the sun rises and bathes the horizon in warm orange and red tones. You hear the sound of the sea and the waves breaking on the cliffs, while the salty air invigorates your senses.
After a light breakfast, you start the short descent and continue hiking along the coast towards Portree. On the descent, you can walk around Loch Parishale. After a short section on the road, the path leads along the shore of Loch Leathan to the eastern coastal cliffs. There you will find beautiful views and occasional glimpses of small ruins.
The rest of the path along the cliffs is steep in places. Shortly before Portree, you finally descend and reach the Cairn Memorial on the Scorrybreac Trail. Immediately afterwards, you will arrive at the idyllic harbour town of Portree. In Portree, I recommend you book a room and enjoy the local cuisine.
Tips for Portree
Don't forget to take an emergency bivouac with you. It consists of an emergency blanket that is cold-resistant, a whistle and a mini compass. It should be in your backpack on every hike anyway.
As the old Scottish saying goes: "There's no such thing as bad weather, only bad clothes!"
You should take some time to visit Portree, as it is an incredibly charming coastal village with cosy pubs and a beautiful Scottish Gaelic harbour. There is also a supermarket there, which was even open on Sunday when I visited. To be on the safe side, however, you should check the opening hours online yourself.
Tip: In terms of cuisine, I can recommend the Scottish speciality haggis. It consists of a sheep's stomach, known as the ‘paunch’, which is filled with heart, liver, lungs, kidney fat, onions and oatmeal. To be honest, I had to overcome my initial reservations, but in the end it was really delicious.
Stage 4: Portree – Sligachan (20 km and 180 m ascent)
The fourth stage is long, but easy to complete due to the lack of elevation gain. You will hike along the coast, enjoying the salty air and beautiful views of the sea.
You start your stage in Portree. I would recommend a hearty breakfast at the harbour if you don't have breakfast at your accommodation. Then you walk along the coast to the cemetery. Shortly afterwards, you can choose the Forest Trail as an alternative to the normal route.
After crossing the bridge over the Varra Gill River, you have the option of making a detour to Tianavaig Bay or climbing the 413-metre-high Ben Tianavaig. Allow about 2 extra hours for this. Shortly before the road ends, you can make another detour to Braes Beach and explore the headland there.
The road eventually turns into a path, which you continue to follow. From here, the path becomes more natural and significantly more beautiful. Eventually, you will reach Sligachan, where you can either stay at the campsite or in permanent accommodation. This is also where the impressive Cuillin Mountains begin.
Tips for Sligachan
I spent the night at Sligachan Campsite. You can also book a room there. There is a welcoming whisky bar near the campsite. Sligachan Bridge, a historic stone bridge built around 1820, is also worth a visit.
Stage 5: Sligachan – Camasunary Bothy (13 km and 100 m ascent)
I was surprised by a thunderstorm during the night. It felt like the end of the world. Thanks to my well-equipped tent and the well-chosen campsite, it ultimately remained harmless. To avoid any dangerous situations, please remember to follow the correct behaviour during thunderstorms, as mentioned above.
In the morning, the air was cool and fresh – ideal for starting a hike. After the historic bridge, follow the narrow path between the large hills.
Tip: Due to the low altitude on this stage, the more adventurous may consider climbing Marsco. The path to the top is classified as T3. Of course, you should only make this detour without heavy luggage, which you can leave behind at a suitable spot, and only take the essentials for a mountain tour with you. You can find more information here. The tour is recommended for experienced mountaineers.
At this point, there is also a turnoff to Bad Step. You can find more information about this in the next paragraph. You can find Bad Step here.
If you follow the normal route, you will not pass Bad Step. The rest of the way to the mountain hut is extremely beautiful, but does not present any particular technical difficulties. You can use the Camasunary Bothy as accommodation or pitch your tent nearby.
Tip: Not far from the refuge, there is another turnoff to the 919 m high Blà Bheinn, one of the most beautiful mountains in this region. The trail is marked T3 and is recommended for experienced mountaineers.
Skye Trail bad step
Just before Elgol, there is a dangerous spot known as the ‘Bad Step’. However, I bypassed the ‘Bad Step’. When wet, this passage is very dangerous as there is a risk of falling. If you want to bypass the ‘Bad Step’ (path classification T5), simply follow my hiking route. I have linked a video of the ‘Bad Step’ below! However, if you are looking for a little thrill and adventure with heavy luggage, you can cross the ‘Bad Step’ northwest of Elgol. The ‘Bad Step’ is an extremely exposed passage along the coastal cliff, about 10-15 metres high. To reach it, you have to turn right at the fork in the path here and then go around the 494-metre-high hill ‘Sgurr na Stri’.
Stage 6: Camasunary Bothy – Torrin (23 km and 400 m ascent)
The sixth stage takes you to the small fishing village of Torrin – a place that immediately enchants visitors with its remote location and dramatic mountain scenery. On the way, you will pass through idyllic Elgol, a picturesque fishing village with breathtaking views of the Cuillin Hills. If you are lucky, there will be a hint of seaweed in the air as fishing boats glide slowly through the water and seabirds circle above the coast.
Your first highlight is Cladach a' Ghyline Beach. Then follow the beautiful coastal path to Elgol Beach. There are supplies available again in the small village. Then follow the road and make a detour to Spar Cave.
Continue north along the coastal path. On the way, you can make a detour to Dun Ringill. A short detour to Abhainn Nn Leac Waterfall is also worthwhile.
Shortly before you reach Torrin, you will come across the so-called Torrin Pools – a hidden gem off the beaten track. These natural waterfall pools nestle in a gentle hollow below rugged cliffs, surrounded by moss and ferns. Some of the pools are deep enough for swimming and offer a refreshing break, especially on warm days. The crystal-clear water is cool, but after many kilometres on foot, it is a real treat. In Torrin, you can find a campsite or book a room for the night.
There were also many birds, animals and plants to discover in the surrounding area. I spent the rest of the evening observing nature in all its forms. In summer, there is almost no complete darkness in the far north of Scotland. And so a last, wonderful evening in the great outdoors came to an end.
Stage 7: Torrin – Broadford (20 km and 300 m ascent)
During the night, only the sound of the wind and the sea could be heard. In the morning, the birds were chirping – a magnificent start to the day. After another night in the tent, I felt a tingling sensation in my stomach on the last day, and I was seized by a spirit of adventure for the final stage of the Skye Trail. You now hike from the small fishing village of Torrin to Broadford, the official end point of your journey. The trail runs mostly along the coast. Enjoy the peace and quiet, the vastness and the rugged nature of Skye once again.
Right at the start, you begin with a scenic coastal hike, passing numerous ancient ruins that silently tell of times gone by. The next big highlight is the Allt na Peighinn Waterfall, whose water cascades picturesquely into the depths. Finally, you reach Loch Cill Chriosd and come back onto the road. The nearby, typically Scottish cemetery, which lies quietly and almost melancholically in the landscape, is definitely worth seeing.
Then follow the road to Broadford, the destination of your journey. There, I can recommend a visit to James Ross Parks– a beautiful place to relax and reflect on the past few days. In Broadford, I treated myself to a room to relax and unwind after the hike.
You have reached your destination – congratulations! If you made it, you have my utmost respect. It was not an easy journey, but it was an unforgettably beautiful one.
‘Those who don't hike haven't seen the world.’ Quote by Christian Sommer, alias HikingFex
Broadford is the second largest town on the Isle of Skye and the end point of the Skye Trail. Here you will find some nice restaurants, numerous B&Bs, a hostel, a few hotels, a bank, a pharmacy and a Coop grocery store. From Broadford, you can take the Citylink bus back to Inverness, Glasgow or Edinburgh.
Weather conditions on the Skye Trail
The Skye Trail is quite challenging in bad weather. The fog can be extremely thick and it can rain incredibly hard. Good equipment is essential for this tour. Be sure to pack really good waterproof gear. However, at some point everything will get wet. If this happens, you need to take action and, if necessary, take a break or even stop.
In summer, there is virtually no complete darkness in the far north of Scotland.
Windy app: Check the weather forecast in the Windy app.
Wetness: If there is a lot of wetness, the tent site should be well chosen to escape the wetness of the ground. I would recommend an additional ultralight groundsheet.
"A Scottish fog soaks an Englishman to the skin"
Fog: In thick fog, absolute caution is advised over the Trotternish hills, as there are several crevices that can easily be overlooked. Good GPS navigation skills and careful walking are essential here. The entire trail is unmarked, but in good weather it is fairly easy to recognise due to the well-trodden paths.
Tip: If you have bad weather at the beginning, you can also start in Broadford and simply walk the route backwards. Skye has its own weather app, the ‘Winde-App’, which I would highly recommend! You can find it at the following link:
More information about isle of skye trekking
Money: Cash and credit cards are available in many places. However, you should not do without cash.
Mobile phone reception: I actually always had reception, even with LTE.
Bus and taxi: There are no buses on Sundays, but taxis are reasonably priced.
Water: You will almost always find water on the Skye Trail. On the mountains, there is an estimated small stream or water collection every 5km. However, you should always use a water filter The water may be clear, but it can still contain impurities, such as animal excrement or dead animals. However, you can also boil the water.
Surefootedness: To be safe on the trail, sure-footedness and the right footwear are the most important factors - after all, falls due to tripping and slipping are the most common cause of accidents when hiking. So remember: the right footwear and the right walking technique are therefore incredibly important. You are sure to find the right footwear in the article below!
Animals or vermin: Ah yes, and be sure to pack a "Mitschies" head net". The annoying mosquitoes come by the billions at dusk, and I do mean billions. Also make sure that the net is really suitable for keeping out mosquitoes. The holes should not be too small. The pesky creatures are so small that they can get through nets. Unfortunately, this was the case with my head net. Only the net on my expensive Nemo-tent was suitable.
Tent: The tent should therefore also be equipped with a suitable net.
For optimal preparation for any tour, I recommend the summit training on my Youtube channel:
Skye Trail packing list
Here I present the most important hiking equipment that I personally own, have tested extensively and have also bought myself. I attach great importance to the weight, quality and price of my equipment. It should feel comfortable on longer tours and be light at the same time. I can also recommend the women's equipment as my wife uses it and it is essentially the same as the men's equipment.
Attention: Please note that the hiking equipment is general and should be adapted depending on the season and individual needs!
Advertising note: These product links are affiliate links. If you buy something through one of these links, I will receive a small commission without you having to pay more. This helps me to maintain my blog and you support me in my project, for which I am very grateful. Thank you very much!
Clothes
Hiking boots
Hiking shorts
Long hiking pants
Functional shirt
Hybridjacket
Fleece-jacket
Rain jacket
Functional underwear
Hiking socks
Other hiking equipment:
• Sun cap
Hiking backback (approx. 60 litres or as required)
by EXPED - unfortunately not available on Amazon.
• Backback - Ospray (was my old one and is also good)
Technology and orientation:
• Compass
• Headlamp
• GPS device or GPS watch if necessary
• Binoculars if necessary
Catering:
• Sweets to keep up morale :)
Health & first Aid:
• First Aid (small and light)
• Tape
• Bivouac
• Toilet paper
Other:
• Passport/Insurance certificate
• cash
• Gas cartridge
Film equipment:
• Camera
• Drone
• Tripod
• Clip
Isle of skye trail best time to travel
The best time to travel the Skye Trail is from May to August. September and October have their own charm, as most tourists have already left the island by then and the mosquito plague is gradually subsiding. Statistically, the lowest number of rainy days in the year is in April, May and June!
Long-distance hiking trails in Europe: 90 routes, all countries
Safety advice
Skye trail GPX
The GPX files can be downloaded from my pages at the following providers.
Outdooractive: https://out.ac/3ujyAM
The skye trail map
FAQ – Frequently asked questions about the Skye Trail
In this FAQ section, you will find concise answers to the most frequently asked questions about the Skye Trail. It is designed to help you plan your trip and quickly and clearly answer any questions you may have about the route, preparation and special features of this challenging long-distance hiking trail.
What is the Skye Trail?
The Skye Trail is a 130 km long-distance hiking trail on the Isle of Skye in Scotland. It takes you along remote paths, coastal cliffs, the Trotternish Ridge, the Quiraing, the Old Man of Storr and through the Cullin Mountains. The trail offers spectacular views, wildlife watching (birds, seals) and intense wilderness experiences.
How long does the hike on the Skye Trail take?
Usually 5–7 days, depending on fitness and stage planning. I myself completed the route in five days, which was quite athletic. If you want to enjoy the landscape at a leisurely pace, you should plan for 7 days.
How difficult is the Skye Trail?
In good weather, it is moderately difficult; in bad weather or fog, it is challenging to difficult. There are unmarked paths, steep terrain in places, and climbing sections (e.g. Bad Step). Sure-footedness, a head for heights and reliable navigation (map/GPS) are essential.
What is the landscape like on the Skye Trail?
There are dramatic coastal cliffs, the Trotternish Ridge, the Quiraing, Old Man of Storr, Sligachan Old Bridge, Sligachan Waterfalls, Cullin Mountains, Torrin Pools – a varied mix of mountains, coastline and waterfalls.
What are the highlights along the way?
Quiraing, Trotternish Ridge, Old Man of Storr, Bad Step, Portree, Loch Ness (on the bus ride), Torrin Pools, Allt na Peighinn Waterfall, Dun Ringill, Blà Bheinn.
Where can you stay overnight on the Skye Trail?
Wild camping: Anywhere on undeveloped land, respectful and away from private property.
Bothies/refuges: Rubha Hunish, Camasunary Bothy, Coruisk Memorial Hut.
Fixed accommodation:
Portree: Portree Independent Hostel, Coolin View, The Skye Inn, etc.
Sligachan: Sligachan Hotel, Angusfield Cabins
Torrin: Torrin Shepherd's Hut
Broadford: Broadford House, Broadford Backpackers, House of Juniper, and many more.
Campsites: Skye Live Campsite, Portree Campsite, Sligachan Campsite, Camping Skye.
Which route is recommended on the Skye Trail – north to south or vice versa?
We recommend north → south: start at the red telephone box in Duntulm and finish in Broadford. Advantage: you can book a room in Broadford at the end, take a shower and relax after your hike.
Where does the Skye Trail officially start?
At the red telephone box near Duntulm (north). Alternatively, you can also start in Broadford (south).
Are there trail markings on the Skye Trail?
No, the Skye Trail is not officially signposted. Well-trodden paths make it easier to find your way in good weather. In fog or darkness, GPS/maps are essential.
What are the trail conditions like on the Skye Trail?
Many pathless passages, muddy ground, paths through meadows, coastal cliffs, short climbing sections. Expect to walk at a slow pace.
What is the ‘Bad Step’ on the Skye Trail?
An exposed passage about 10-15 m high along the coast near Elgol (trail classification T5). Very dangerous in wet conditions. Can be bypassed via an alternative route. Video instructions are available.
How safe is wild camping on the Skye Trail?
The ‘Right to Roam’ allows wild camping on undeveloped land. Choose places away from houses, respect nature and do not leave any rubbish behind. Pay attention to the weather, ground wetness and proximity to fall sites.
What is the weather like on the Skye Trail?
Extremely changeable, frequent rain, dense fog. Summer: long daylight hours in the north, hardly any complete darkness. Good, waterproof equipment is essential.
When is the best time to travel on the Skye Trail?
May to August for good weather. September/October for fewer tourists and fewer midges. Statistically little rain in April, May and June.
What is the best way to get to the Skye Trail?
Flight: Edinburgh, Glasgow or Inverness.
Bus: Citylink/Megabus to Portree (approx. 8 hours from Edinburgh with a change in Inverness). Apps: OMIO or Skyscanner for flight and bus tickets.
Where can I get a gas cartridge for the Skye Trail?
Tip: Mountain Warehouse in Edinburgh for gas cartridges and outdoor equipment.
There are also outdoor shops in Inverness and Glasgow that sell gas cartridges.
What do I need to consider in terms of equipment for the Skye Trail?
Tent: Ultralight, possibly with mosquito netting
Hiking boots: Salewa MS Raven 3 GTX
Clothing: functional and rainwear, fleece, hybrid jacket
Navigation: map, compass, GPS or GPS watch
Food & water: hydration system ≥3 litres, water filter, snacks, emergency bivouac
Safety: first aid kit, blister plasters, tape, mini satellite phone
Extras: Camera, drone, tripod, power bank, binoculars
Are there any supplies along the Skye Trail?
Yes, in Portree, Sligachan, Torrin, Broadford and some small villages such as Elgol. There are water sources about every 5 km in the mountains, but filtering or boiling is recommended.
Are there mosquitoes/insects on the Skye Trail?
Yes, especially midges at dusk, when there is no wind and it is cloudy. A head net is recommended; only fine-mesh nets keep the little beasts away. A tent also needs a fine-mesh net.
What exactly are the stages of the Skye Trail?
Stage 1: Rubha Hunish – Flodigarry (17 km / 360 m ascent)
Stage 2: Flodigarry – Old Man of Storr (23 km / 1130 m ascent)
Stage 3: Old Man of Storr – Portree (20 km / 330 m ascent)
Stage 4: Portree – Sligachan (20 km / 180 m ascent)
Stage 5: Sligachan – Camasunary Bothy (13 km / 100 m ascent)
Stage 6: Camasunary Bothy – Torrin (23 km / 400 m ascent)
Stage 7: Torrin – Broadford (20 km / 300 m ascent)
What are the highlights of the stages on the Skye Trail?
Quiraing, Trotternish Ridge, Old Man of Storr
Loch Parishale & Loch Leathan
Tianavaig Bay, Braes Beach, Sligachan Waterfalls
Marsco, Blà Bheinn, Bad Step
Elgol, Cladach a’ Ghyline Beach, Dun Ringill, Torrin Pools
Allt na Peighinn Waterfall, Loch Cill Chriosd
How do I plan the stages of the Skye Trail?
Sporty: 5 days, longer daily stages, wild camping.
More relaxed: 7 days, mixture of fixed accommodation and wild camping (Portree, Sligachan, Broadford).
Are there any special tips for Portree, Sligachan and Broadford?
Portree: Colour House Viewpoint, Chracaig Waterfall, Apothecary's Tower, The Lump, Promenade, local specialities (haggis).
Sligachan: Old Bridge, Waterfalls, Collie & MacKenzie Statue, whisky bar.
Broadford: James Ross Parks, restaurants, B&Bs, shopping, bus to Inverness/Edinburgh/Glasgow.
What tips are there for safety on the Skye Trail?
Weather observation: Windy app for Skye
Fog & visibility: GPS, map, cautious hiking
Thunderstorms: Position your tent correctly, keep your distance from trees/rocks
Take an emergency bivouac with a blanket, whistle and mini compass
Where can I download GPX data for the Skye Trail?
What insurance is recommended for the Skye Trail?
Worldwide hiking and trekking insurance such as Auras Insurance. Get a 10% discount with the discount code HIKINGFEX.
Is the Skye Trail also suitable for beginners?
No, very good physical condition, sure-footedness, a head for heights and navigation experience are required. Some sections (e.g. Bad Step, Blà Bheinn) are technically challenging.
Can you hike the Skye Trail alone?
Yes, experienced hikers can hike the Skye Trail alone.
Before you set off, inform a trusted person when you are going and which stage you are doing on which day. Check in briefly after completing each stage so that in an emergency, someone knows where you were last.
What is the best preparation for the Skye Trail?
Training: practise endurance and mountain hiking
Check your packing list, choose lightweight equipment
Practise orientation: map, compass, GPS
Study weather conditions, plan for midge protection
Create a first aid and emergency plan
Isle of Skye Trail conclusion
The Skye Trail, with its length of almost 130 kilometres, is a fantastic long-distance hiking trail that offers an incredible amount. It shows a cross-section of the rugged Scottish Highlands. I really enjoyed the tour! Have a great time and good luck ;)
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Hello, I am Christian, the chief globetrotter of this Site and an enthusiastic adventurer, hiker and filmmaker. I love to explore new paths and inspire people with them, and I love to share my hiking knowledge with you! You can also find my videos on YouTube! On my blog you can find tips for beginners and professionals on the greatest and most beautiful hiking tours there are. I want to encourage people to explore the world as a hiker, whether in the countryside, through the forest or in the mountains. True to the motto: If you haven't hiked, you haven't seen the world,
On my blog, I also write about hiking gear, the right summit training and nature conservation, as well as tips and information about hiking.
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