The Isle of Skye, located off the Scottish mainland, is one of the largest Scottish islands. The island itself is divided into five main areas, all of which have something to offer visitors to the region. Let’s take a look at each of the Isle of Skye regions in a little more detail:
- North West Skye — North West Skye has some of the most dramatic scenery on the island. It combines impressively craggy headlands, caves and cliffs with a range of coral and black sand beaches. The area inland here is also home to lochs and glens. This is one the most popular Isle of Skye regions for nature lovers as you can spot many different species from this region. You could, for example, see whales, sharks, seals and there is plenty of bird life around as well. This region is also home to Dunvegan Castle.
- North East Skye — North East Skye is home to one of the best known and most popular long distance walks in the area which takes in rolling hills and arresting ridges. Of all the Isle of Skye regions this is perhaps the best known for its medieval castle, Hugh’s castle, which is considered to be the last castle of its time built on the island. People visiting this region also often enjoy visiting the Fossil Museum to see the remnants of the dinosaurs that once lived here.
- Central Skye — This is probably the best known of the Isle of Skye regions in terms of climbing and mountaineering. Central Skye is home to the Cuillin range which gives climbers of all levels plenty of opportunities to match their wits against the local hills and ridges. Central Skye is also home to some of the island’s largest towns and settlements such as the island’s capital Portree, Carbost, Broadford and Sconser.
- South Skye — South Skye is often referred to as the ‘garden of Skye’ as its climate makes it perfect for cultivation. Visitors often enjoy a visit to Armadale Castle here to see the exotic trees grown there. Unlike other Isle of Skye regions South Skye is relatively flat and is mainly composed of moorland and forests. Other popular places to visit in this region include Dunsgathaich Castle and Ord Bay.
- Lochalsh — Lochalsh is perhaps best known for its fishing villages and the red deer and Highland Cattle which roam around the region. Like many Isle of Skye regions this area was involved in the Jacobite rebellion and is home to the site of a major battle. Walkers also enjoy all that Lochalsh has to offer. A visit to Glomach Falls is a must.
The Isle of Skye regions all have their own individual charm. Any visitor to the island that takes the time to investigate each region will find something of interest to see and to do.




