The Isle of Skye: A Winter Wonderland
Why Skye should be your top holiday destination this winter!
The Isle of Skye is spectacular at any time of year but when the cold weather hits, snowcapped mountains, fields, trees and drystane dykes turned white with frost.
Fewer visitors and an abundance of wildlife transform the island into a winter wonderland.
Here are two fabulous walks on the Isle of Skye which reveal the very best of this stunning island in winter- and a couple of ideas about places to stay.
Old Man of Storr
Probably the most famous walk on the island in summer – and definitely the busiest! On a winter’s day, however, chances are you’ll be pretty much alone.
Difficulty: Medium
Weather: This walk is suitable in most weather conditions but the path gets very muddy on wet days.
The Walk: The Storr Walk starts at and returns to the car park, covering a distance of 3.8km. Getting to the foot of the ‘Old Man’ takes about 45 minutes.
Click here for more details
Point of Sleat
This is a great walk along a track to the southern-most point of Skye. It passes a fantastic white sand beach enroute to the Point, where there is a modern lighthouse and fantastic views across to the small isles of Rum, Canna and Eigg.
Difficulty: Medium – but long (8.9km)
Weather: This walk can be completed in most weather conditions but is best enjoyed on a clear day.
The Walk: Rather hard work as the path rises and drops repeatedly but the beautiful beach and the views from the Point make it worth the effort. If you wish to stop at the sandy beach, choose a time when the tide is further out as when the tide is very high, there will be no sand at all.
Click here for more details
Where To Stay: Kinloch Lodge
Kinloch Loch Lodge in the early morning mist
This former 16th century hunting lodge is set in one of Scotland’s most stunning island destinations.
Kinloch Lodge, rich in Scottish history, elegantly fuses old and new, creating the ideal highland getaway – with the added bonus of a Michelin-starred restaurant which makes the most of Skye’s natural and delicious larder.
Step out of the hotel and you’ll find the tranquil shoreline of Loch Na Dal. This is perfect for country walks, outdoor pursuits and enjoying the island’s unspoilt natural beauty.
Winter accommodation rates range from £99 to £169 per person per night, including a 5-course dinner and a hearty Scottish breakfast.
-
- The path leading up to the Old Man of Storr. www.isleofskye.com
-
- Enroute to the Point of Sleat. www.isleofskye.com
-
- Canowindra, Isle of Skye
-
- The guest lounge at Canowindra
-
- The Old Man of Storr in Winter. www.isleofskye.com
Where To Stay
An award-winning, elegant B&B situated just outside Portree, visitors to Canowindra are treated to luxurious rooms, home baking, locally-sourced produce and a warm welcome.
- Homemade fresh cookies are delivered to the rooms every day and there’s an afternoon tea to die for.
- The owners pride themselves on sourcing the best produce, including Stornaway black pudding, local free-range eggs and smoked salmon.
- Cosy suppers are available throughout the winter months – kick off your boots and relax in front of the woodburning stove before enjoying delicious, home cooked food in the adjoining dining room (£22.50 for two courses).
- Winter rates: £145 per room per night – with a special winter offer of three nights for two.
