Skye & Lochalsh

Skye and Lochalsh combine the most celebrated island in the Hebrides with its mainland gateway, linked by the sweeping Skye Bridge. This is a landscape of jagged Cuillin peaks, plunging waterfalls and hidden coral-like beaches, threaded with single-track roads that lead to one showstopping view after another. Our guides round up the area's best waterfalls, including family-friendly ones, alongside its finest beaches, hidden gems and essential places to visit, helping you plan a trip through some of Scotland's most dramatic scenery.

Best Beaches in Skye & Lochalsh

Skye and Lochalsh tangle sea lochs with silver-sand bays, from Camusdarach and Arisaig to Talisker Bay and Coral Beach, looking out to the Small Isles.

Best Hidden Gems in Skye & Lochalsh

Skye and mainland Lochalsh hold the Highlands at their wildest: Neist Point, Macleod's Maidens and hidden lochs beneath the jagged ridge of the Cuillin.

Best Places to Visit in Skye & Lochalsh

On Skye and in Lochalsh, the best places to visit take in the Trotternish Ridge, Dunscaith Castle and the pale shell sand of Coral Beach on the coast.

Best Waterfalls in Skye & Lochalsh

Skye and Lochalsh wear their waterfalls on the coast, where burns drop off cliffs to the sea and clear pools gather beneath the Cuillin at Lealt and Rha falls.

Family Waterfalls in Skye & Lochalsh

Skye and Lochalsh hold family waterfalls where burns spill off high moorland, from Mealt Falls and Bearreraig to Eas a Bhradain, tumbling toward the coast.

What are the best waterfalls on Skye?

Skye's waterfalls are among its biggest draws, from easily reached roadside cascades to those requiring a hillwalk. Our waterfalls and family waterfalls guides cover the most spectacular, with notes on walk length and difficulty so you can choose ones that suit children or shorter legs.

When is the best time to visit Skye?

May, June and September offer the best balance of longer days, thinner crowds and fewer midges, which peak in July and August. Winter brings snow-capped drama but short daylight and closed facilities. Book accommodation well ahead, as Skye is extremely popular in summer.

Does Skye have good beaches?

Yes. Skye and neighbouring Lochalsh hide several lovely beaches, including pale coral sands and quiet pebbly coves with mountain backdrops. Our beaches guide highlights the most scenic, many reached by short walks and rarely busy, even at the height of summer.