Winter on the Isle of Skye
A season for Mistery & Magical light
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"During winter, the Isle of Skye undergoes a captivating change as the tourists disperse and the iconic Cuillins are draped in pristine snow. Skye in winter beckons the discerning, adventurous traveller - looking for a unique and tranquil experience. "
SLOW SKYE Winter Wonders ...
The Point of Sleat, a winter walk
There are stunning walks throughout this area, perfect to enjoy in the low winter sun. One of the more unusual destinations is the Point of Sleat beach.
Wildlife Walks at Eilean Iarmain
Perhaps before settling in for an evening, the more adventurous members of your party may fancy getting out in the wilderness for a few hours.
Tackling the Cuillins (or not)
If you are on a munro bagging mission, add in the challenge of one of Skye’s eleven munros – an impressive feat with unforgettable views.
A Day of Whisky and Faeries
Spend a day at the Fairy Pools, where crystal-clear waters weave through the snowy peaks of the Cuillins without a fellow tourist in sight.
MySkyeTime's mission is to encourage travellers to immerse themselves in the local culture and natural surroundings of our beautiful island, rather than simply rushing through the popular tourist attractions.
This approach promotes a deeper connection by focusing on quality experiences, sustainability, and respect for the environment. It encourages travellers to engage in activities like walking, cycling, or using public transportation; allowing them to appreciate the journey as much as the destination. Our Slow Skye itineraries are designed to showcase some of Skye’s hidden gems, walks and small businesses – away from the well trodden tourist trail.
Visiting Skye during the off season is a fantastic way to support local businesses and reduce the environmental impact of tourism. Here are some additional tips and considerations for those planning a trip to Skye during the quieter months:
Some businesses may close or have reduced hours during the quieter seasons. Make sure to check their websites or contact them in advance to confirm their operating hours to avoid disappointment.
While on the island, consider purchasing local products and crafts. This helps support the local economy and provides you with unique souvenirs to take home. We particularly love the Isle of Skye Sea Salt Company for adding something special to your cosy dinners, and Skye Skyns bespoke collection of sheepskin rugs.
While Skye may be less crowded, it’s still a good idea to book your accommodation in advance. This is also a great time to pick up deals on hotels and self-catering! Campsites are unlikely to be open, so bear that in mind if you’re planning something a little more wild. The Duisdale, Skeabost and Torbhaig are all stunningly located four star hotels that run special winter deals!
Check for any events happening during your visit! Thought winter, the LAS centre in Portree and the Skye Bridge Studios have a fun mix of music, theatre and comedy taking place to keep the locals busy over the quiet season. Listings can be found on their websites. Later on in the season, the Magic Mountain festival takes place in February and is an amazing event bringing together adventurous souls in a weekend of talks, workshops, music, food and climbing.
When travelling around Skye, it is always important to leave no trace and follow responsible tourism practices. Bin all rubbish, respect the wildlife and their natural habitats, and stick to designated trails and paths.
Winter is an excellent time for photography on Skye. The soft, angled light can create stunning landscapes, and you’re likely to encounter fewer crowds at popular photography spots. You might even be lucky enough to capture the elusive Northern Lights. Download the Dark Skye app to boost your chances!
Be prepared for variable weather conditions in the Winter months. Skye’s weather can change quickly, so bring appropriate clothing and gear for rain, wind, and chilly temperatures.
By following these tips, you can have a rewarding and responsible visit to Skye during the quieter months – supporting the local economy and enjoying the island’s natural beauty at the most peaceful time of year.
THE POINT OF SLEAT
The south of Skye is renowned for undulating hills, tufty crofts and beautiful, remote farmland. The forests here are a little more dense and mysterious, and the shoreline is less cliff-y and aggressive than in the rugged north. There are stunning walks throughout this area, perfect to enjoy in the low winter sun.
One of the more unusual destinations is the Point of Sleat beach, a walk that begins at the Aird of Sleat and looks out to the wee isles of Rum and Eigg, as well as the stunning Ardnamurchan peninsula. Persevere down the long winding farm track to the beach, where you are likely to have the secluded white sands to yourself.
The An Crùbh café is the perfect place to refuel with tea and scones after your walk.
WILDLIFE WALKS AT EILEAN IARMAIN
Perhaps before settling in for an evening (or afternoon) of drinking by the crackling log fire, more adventurous members of your party may fancy getting out in the wilderness for a few hours. Leaving from the Eilean Iarmain hotel – even in winter – are wildlife walks with local legend Scott MacKenzie. Prepare to crunch your way across frosty fields with heavy boots and a wee red nose, in keen anticipation of spotting a shadow dart across the pure white snow.
The walks are informative and very entertaining, punctuated with awe-inspiring vistas and images of long, dark eagle wings in stunning contrast to the white-washed landscape. A true adventure – if only to excuse spending the rest of your day lounging by the fire, dipping in and out of conversation with local characters as you sample the local whiskies in the charming hotel bar.
TACKLING THE CUILLIN (OR NOT) WITH SKYE ADVENTURE
Skye Adventure offer a range of options: from a guided walk to ensure you take the safest route, to a day spent mountaineering and climbing the big hitters, under close guidance from their expert team. If you are on a munro bagging mission, why not add in the extra challenge of bagging one of Skye’s eleven munros in winter conditions – an impressive feat with dazzling, unforgettable views.
If you feel you need to practice before you tackle The Great Stone Chute under metres of snow, Skye Adventure have set up the Third Ridge climbing wall in Portree – head over to their website to book a spot! Also a great day out if weather conditions aren’t safe enough for an expedition up the hills themselves.
If you’re lucky, a clear winter night (often closing in at around three in the afternoon) will follow a clear day up the hills (it’s unlikely you will be heading out during a blizzard!) – and clear nights on Skye occasionally mean glimpses of the elusive Aurora Borealis (or Northern Lights). Download the Dark Skye app to keep up to date with its movements.
A DAY OF WHISKY AND FAERIES
Spend a day at the enchanting Fairy Pools, where crystal-clear waters weave through the snowy peaks of the Cuillins, and without a fellow tourist in sight. Winter is the best time to visit this popular destination and photograph its magical beauty without accidentally including groups of fellow visitors in your shot.
Continue your journey in the afternoon at the Talisker Distillery to learn about their iconic dram in an incredible location.
As evening descends, end your day at The Old Inn, a cosy haven where you can enjoy hearty pub food by a roaring fire, accompanied by live music during one of the inn’s spirited nights.
