The photography guide to Scotland Isle Of Skye
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Isle Of Skye photography guide

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Introduction

The Isle of Skye is a breathtaking destination for those seeking to capture the beauty of nature through photography. With its rugged mountains, deep lochs, towering sea cliffs, and mysterious moors, Skye offers endless opportunities for landscape and travel photography. Late April and May are the best times to visit, but the island has something to offer year-round. 

Located northwest of Scotland and in the heart of the Highlands region, Skye can be easily accessed via the Skye Bridge or one of the frequent ferries. The coastline is a series of peninsulas and bays that radiate from the centre, which is dominated by the Cuillin mountains. The Trotternish peninsula in the north is known for its rich soils and unusual rock formations, providing some of Skye's most popular photography spots like the Quiraing, Old Man of Storr, Kilt Rock, and Fairy Glenn. 

The capital town Portree is an excellent base for all photography trips, offering plenty of accommodations, restaurants, bars, and shops.

While most photographers know Skye's "Big Six" locations (Old Man of Storr, Quiraing, Fairy Glenn, Neist Point Lighthouse, Fairy Pools, Sligachan Bridge), there is much more to see and capture on this island of almost 1700 km2.

This guide includes photography spots including ancient castles, abandoned churches and houses, clear water lochs, powerful waterfalls, and epic mountains to give you a good selection of other beautiful locations. So, come to Skye and let your camera capture the magic of this "Cloud Island".

Most popular Isle Of Skye photo spots


Top Picks

There is so much to see and capture on this island of almost 1700 km2, but as a starting point consider these locations which most landscape photographers will have certainly heard of.

The Old Man of Storr is an iconic rock formation on the Isle of Skye, with its towering pinnacle visible from miles away. A popular hiking destination, the trail to the Old Man of Storr offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape and the opportunity to witness the mystical beauty of the Isle.

The Quiraing is a geological marvel on Skye, characterized by its dramatic cliffs, towering pinnacles, and otherworldly landscapes. A hike through the Quiraing takes you through narrow paths, past sheer drops, and offers panoramic views of the Isle and its coastline, leaving visitors in awe of its rugged beauty.

Fairy Glen, nestled in the hills of Skye, is a whimsical and enchanting location. This natural landscape resembles a miniature fairyland, complete with grassy knolls, spiraling pathways, and tiny ponds. Visitors can wander through the mystical Fairy Glen and let their imaginations run wild in this truly magical setting.

Neist Point Lighthouse is perched on the westernmost point of Skye's coastline, offering stunning views of dramatic cliffs and the open sea. It's a popular spot for photographers, and the walk down to the lighthouse rewards visitors with awe-inspiring scenery and the chance to spot seals, dolphins, and various seabirds.

The Fairy Pools are a series of crystal-clear, cascading pools and waterfalls nestled in the Cuillin Mountains. This natural wonder attracts outdoor enthusiasts and photographers alike, who come to witness the vibrant blue hues of the pools and the breathtaking scenery that surrounds them.

The Sligachan Bridge is a picturesque stone bridge that spans the River Sligachan and serves as a gateway to the majestic Cuillin Mountains. The bridge is surrounded by stunning landscapes, including rolling hills and the fast-flowing river, making it a favorite spot for photographers and nature lovers. It is also a starting point for various hikes and walks in the area.


Travel

To reach the Isle of Skye, the most common starting point is the city of Inverness. If you're arriving by air, you can fly into Inverness Airport from various UK cities. From Inverness, you have a few options for traveling to Skye. The most convenient way is by renting a car and driving across the Skye Bridge, which connects the island to the mainland. The journey takes approximately two and a half hours. Alternatively, you can take a scenic bus ride from Inverness to Portree, the main town on Skye. Regular bus services are available, and the journey takes around three hours.

Once you're on the Isle of Skye, public transport options are somewhat limited but still accessible. Buses are the primary mode of public transportation on the island. The main bus operator is Stagecoach, which provides services to various locations on Skye, including popular tourist spots. Buses are reliable and offer a great way to explore the island's beauty at a leisurely pace. However, it's important to note that bus services may have limited frequency, especially in more remote areas, so it's advisable to plan your itinerary accordingly.

For a more flexible and comprehensive experience, renting a car is highly recommended on the Isle of Skye. Car rental companies are available in Portree, and having your own vehicle allows you to explore the island's hidden gems at your own pace. Skye's roads offer stunning scenery, but some of them can be narrow and winding, so cautious driving is essential. Additionally, cycling is a popular option for those seeking an active way to get around. Several bicycle rental services are available on the island, and Skye's quiet roads and beautiful landscapes make it a great destination for cycling enthusiasts.


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Curated By

Jakub Bors
For 15 years, I've been completely immersed in the fascinating world of photography and digital art. My love for travel has taken me to every corner of the globe where I've met some truly extraordinary people. It all started with my trusty Olympus E510 and the invaluable teachings of the skilled French photographer, Serge Ramelli. Though my Olympus camera is now a thing of the past, my passion for exploring the world and capturing its beauty through photography remains as strong as ever.
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