A Photographers Information to The Isle of Skye, Scotland
A bit of like crossing to Jurassic Park, the Isle of Skye seems like a land of thriller, intrigue and full pure magnificence. Whether or not you’re arriving by ferry or over the bridge, with rugged peaks within the distance and an unlimited vacancy in most instructions, Skye has the wow issue.
You’ll need your digital camera helpful for each single second right here, even when issues get slightly misty and moody!
I received’t ramble on anymore as a result of I do know for those who’ve discovered this information you’re most likely both about to go to, or are at present travelling in Scotland. I’m positive you simply wish to know the place to go and when!
As at all times, beneath is a map revealing the place all the good pictures places are on the Isle of Skye then afterwards are the descriptions of every location and pattern imagery I’ve taken on my go to.
Map – Isle of Skye Images Areas
Learn extra: For extra pictures location guides to different cities and areas world wide, click on by means of to the ‘Vacation spot Guides’ part.
Earlier than you get began, take a peek at slightly video I made from my street journey across the Isle of Skye, showcasing most of the places I point out beneath…
ISLE OF SKYE PHOTOGRAPHY LOCATIONS –
NEIST POINT LIGHTHOUSE
I used to be going to put in writing that this was my favorite place to {photograph} however you recognize what? It’s all good on the Isle of Skye. Neist Level affords dramatic coastal surroundings with cliffs dropping into the ocean, swooping seabirds and one very photogenic lighthouse.
You’ve little question seen this spot on Instagram at some stage, it’s tremendous common at sundown however as with all the places round Skye, the landscapes are so giant it’s straightforward to really feel like there’s nobody round. Upon arrival dollop of salty air will hit you within the face and from then on you’ll discover it unattainable to to not wander and seize quite a lot of views.
You’ll want to get to Neist Level early within the afternoon to provide your self sufficient time to discover it from all angles. Wander down the hill to the lighthouse then a terrific place to seize sundown is from the highest of the cliffs wanting over the lighthouse beneath.
Getting Right here: From Portree head in direction of Dunvegan then take Mill Highway which cuts throughout previous Kinloch Campsite in direction of the B884. Keep on that street and easily observe the indicators to Neist Level Lighthouse. It takes half-hour or extra and a lot of the street is single lane so hold a watch out for sheep and campervans!
Photograph Tip: Get away from the crowds and discover your personal distinctive perspective. There’ll little question be a cluster of tripods getting ‘the’ shot of Neist Level however for those who wander alongside the headland slightly there’ll nonetheless be a really comparable shot and you’ll sit on the large boulders and benefit from the second.
QUIRAING
Lush crags poking up amongst atmospheric surroundings that conjures all the emotions of distant magnificence. Quiraing is beautiful, you might actually use all of the adjective within the dictionary to explain it. Driving up from the coast street in direction of it gently eases you into its magnificence nevertheless the views from the highest and alongside the strolling monitor are second to none.
One factor to notice which I believe is absolutely important is that it’s very crowded in peak season. We visited simply after lunch sooner or later and located it virtually unattainable to cease the automobile as a result of there was no patch of grass left for nearly a full mile after the parking zone and coach a great deal of vacationers have been piling alongside the strolling monitor. That mentioned, arrive for dawn or low season and I’m positive you’ll expertise the true magic Quiraing affords in fully totally different circumstances.
Even with the crowds although, the panorama is so huge that it’s straightforward to dam everybody out and simply stare in complete awe of the wonder. That such a spot this completely shaped exists is astounding.
With out stopping the Quiraing mountaineering route takes roughly two hours to finish, however for photographers he 6.8km loop path will little question take for much longer. There’s three essential rock formations to maintain a watch out for, the Jail, Needle and Desk.
Getting Right here: Positioned within the north of the Isle of Skye it’s a terrific spot to incorporate if you’re exploring the Trotternish space with stand outs just like the Previous Man of Storr.
Photograph Tip: There’s a lot to seize right here and to actually make your photos pop, plan your journey for dawn or sundown to expertise the temper and watch the landscapes within the altering mild.
FAIRY POOLS
Like a path of glowing fairy mud weaving down the River Brittle, the Fairy Swimming pools are one thing particular. You’ll discover these gems (they really sparkle in daylight!) close to Glenbrittle virtually within the very centre of Skye. Nice as a spot to cease both in your method as much as the northern areas, or in your method again throughout to the primary they’ll get busy so attempt to arrive early or late within the day.
Should you’re searching for a spot to check out your lengthy publicity pictures, that is it. With so many waterfalls all various in dimension, energy and environment, the Fairy Swimming pools are a water lovers dream. Positioned inside an enormous valley, the mountain landscapes round supply a variety of nice potentialities for composing your shot, it’s then only a matter of determined which pool and the place to climb down.
The stroll takes roughly 20-30minutes to get to the furthest set of falls so don’t simply cease in the beginning, hold exploring till there’s no extra to see. Additionally I discovered the additional you wander, the higher they regarded and in addition you’ll want to strive totally different vantage factors.
Getting Right here: Take the A863 on the Sligachan Resort (who’re pleased to supply a printout map to the Fairy Swimming pools for anybody misplaced and with out cellphone sign). As soon as on the A863 proceed till the B8009 seems on the left then observe that till you see an indication to the Fairy Swimming pools, once more on the left. After that flip it’s a brief drive up and over the hill previous paddocks till the valley seems earlier than you. There’s a carpark otherwise you’ll additionally discover individuals are likely to park alongside the sting of the street too.
Photograph Tip: Don’t be afraid to get in and rise up near the falls! They’re not the warmest however they’re so clear and on a sunny day the blue tones are putting!
OLD MAN OF STORR
Standing tall with a rugged look excessive above the lochs and landscapes of Skye, The Storr is the most well-liked place for photographers on the island. Fashioned initially by a landslide, the jagged rocky sections jut out from the Trotternish Ridge.
Take a peek at my extra in depth publish about ‘Mountain climbing the Previous Man of Storr’ which additionally lists a variety of totally different vantage factors to {photograph} this beautiful scene.
Make this considered one of your must-see landscapes whereas on the Isle of Skye. Additionally you’ll want to arrive both early within the morning or late within the night to make sure you keep away from the crowds.
Getting Right here: You’ll discover the carpark to start the hike as much as the Previous Man of Storr on the A855, about 7 miles from Portree.
Photograph Tip: Arrive for sundown and keep to {photograph} nightfall, or alternatively get there early for dawn for those who’re actually eager! Avoiding the crowds will lead to stunning individuals free photos and the sheep will seem in larger numbers too.
MACLEOD’S TABLES
When driving in direction of Dunvegan or Neist Level you’ll see two flat high mountains within the distance. These are the Macleods Tables and for some cause, I liked them! They could be named after my ancestors nevertheless their type is so distinctive to a lot of the landscapes across the Isle of Skye that it makes them a refreshing topic to {photograph}.
You may seize them from throughout jap aspect of Loch Dunvegan or on the drive in direction of Neist Level there’s a number of vantage factors to maintain a watch out for.
DUNVEGAN CASTLE
House to seat of the Clan MacLeod, Dunvegan Fortress has a private hyperlink to my household’s historical past. Resting on the shores of Loch Dunvegan, the citadel sits overlooking an inlet and is a lovely topic for reflections.
Should you handle to reach earlier than 5pm you may entry the citadel and its preened gardens for £13 and there’s additionally the likelihood to go seal recognizing, fishing and extra from the citadel. If not, there’s a terrific little spot to take images of the citadel throughout the lake. Proceed previous the carpark down the a method lane and observe it alongside the loch till you flip again and see the citadel. It’s really a terrific spot for a picnic and after you’ve taken your pictures of the citadel you may watch because the seals frolick within the water close by.
Getting Right here: From Portree head north then take the A850 all the way in which to Dunvegan. When you get to the Dunvegan Resort, flip proper and take the small street till you see a carpark on the precise for the citadel (which is on the left).
LOCH LEATHAN
You’ll discover this magnificence beside the A855 on the way in which to mountaineering the Previous Man of Storr and it’s really for that cause I’m mentioning it. As you arrive from Portree you’ll begin to see ‘The Storr’ showing within the distance with Loch Leathan and the adjoining Loch Fada offering a terrific place to drag over and seize a special perspective. With the water providing reflection potential in the precise situations, or the reeds within the discipline and grass providing a softer foreground topic.
LOCH MOR
On the street to Neist Level Loch Mor will reveal its photogenic wonders. After crossing the hill from Milvaig hold a watch out for a small parking spot on the left so you may pull over and seize pictures of the panorama. As soon as the summer time greens kick in in direction of the tip of Might onwards, there’s a putting distinction of inexperienced and blue with the loch missed by a powerful ridge.
LEALT FALLS – Diatomite Ruins
This spot is so stunning! Wandering from the carpark in direction of the ocean affords a variety of vantage factors again in direction of the Lealt Falls (bear in mind to show round) nevertheless for me, it wasn’t the falls that have been the drawcard right here. When you get to the viewing platform look down and also you’ll see the ruins of an previous constructing, initially used as a Diatomite manufacturing unit or ‘Caile’ (Gaelic for chalk).
Taking the monitor down the hillside (watch out because it’s steep and slippery) you’ll go sheep fortunately munching away on the grass earlier than reaching the ruins. They’re fully overgrown and mysterious! Beside them is a freshwater stream that flows from the Lealt Falls and underwater is the richest inexperienced, virtually fluro like moss you’ve ever seen. Should you’ve acquired a water-proof digital camera undoubtedly convey it right here to peek underwater and the luxurious locks of moss.
Getting Right here: One other good spot alongside the A855 from Portree to Staffin, it’s about 5-10 minutes from the Previous Man of Storr and also you’ll discover a parking space on the precise aspect simply after passing the Lealt Falls Home.
KILT ROCK AND MEALT FALLS
With vertical basalt columns dropping to the ocean, it’s mentioned Kilt Rock resembles in fact, a kilt. A preferred cease alongside the photogenic route from Portree to Staffin, Mealt Falls drop from a small loch into the ocean and it’s a dramatic scene to seize. Relying on how a lot rain has fallen previous to your go to, the falls will both be a delicate mist, like throughout my journey, or they’ll be gushing over the sting.
FAIRY GLEN
That is one spot I used to be actually hoping to go to and I had left it till the ultimate morning to take action as a result of for some cause on the time, assumed it was near the Fairy Swimming pools. It’s not, it’s within the different course. So simply as a heads up, if you wish to go to Fairy Glen, achieve this if you’re up within the north of Skye! Fortunately, my buddy and fellow photographer Sarah wrote all about it from her journey so moderately than me chat about it, head over to her web site The Wanderblogger to take a peek at this unbelievable place, there’s a great deal of stunning pictures!
UNNAMED BEAUTIES
An enormous a part of photographing the Isle of Skye takes place by the street, on foot up within the mountains, paddocks and fields or down by the lochs. Some locations aren’t named, they’re merely tremendous photogenic. For that cause I simply needed to incorporate slightly half about leaving time for surprising stops.
When driving across the Isle of Skye you’ll little question come throughout someplace each mile or so that you simply wish to cease and {photograph}. There’s sheep wandering over the roads, the scruffy Highland Coos (cows), and countless peaks altering as the sunshine and clouds roll over their rocky tops.
Maintain your eyes peeled as a result of the Isle of Skye will likely be totally different for everybody at various occasions of the yr, day and even minute with the climate continually altering. Should you do find yourself with a moist day on the Isle of Skye, don’t let it deter your adventures as a result of rain does go and the mist provides to the temper, creating a lovely environment for pictures.
The street across the north from Portree to Staffin is a must-do drive. I’ve talked about it a number of occasions on this information however taking the total route all the way in which round to Uig supplies the chance to see farm homes, beautiful coastlines and so many sheep. Actually, for those who like sheep, that is the place to go!
Different Notable Areas:
Coral Seashore
Only a quick stroll from Claigan, Coral Seashore is crammed with precisely what you suppose, coral! It’s referred to as one of the stunning seashores on the Isle of Skye and since it’s positioned proper on the entrance to Loch Dunvegan there’s additionally nice views throughout to Camas Ban.
Elgol
Sadly throughout my go to the climate was towards us for Elgol however I’ve heard from different photographers, it’s a lovely spot to go to. It’s additionally doable to leap on a small ferry there and journey round to the beginning of a hike to Loch Coruisk. Identified to be maybe essentially the most magnificent of all of the lochs with views over the Cuillin Vary, examine hike particulars right here – Loch Coruisk Hike
Raasay Island
Providing views throughout to the Isle of Skye, Raasay is technically a separate island however, it’s only a quick 25minute ferry trip throughout from Sconser. A lot much less populated than the Isle of Skye, Raasay affords a rural allure. Verify ferry information right here.
Sligachan Bridge
An ideal vantage level wanting in direction of the Black Cullins Mountain Vary, Sligachan Bridge is a superb place to stretch your legs for those who’ve simply arrived to the Isle of Skye. Beneath the bridge yow will discover a novel view utilizing the stones as a body with the mountain peaks peeking by means of beneath.
Attending to the Isle of Skye
Entry to the Isle of Skye is feasible by ferry from Mallaig or you may drive throughout on a bridge from Kyle of Lochalsh. Whether or not it’s romantic or simply feels slightly extra adventurous, arriving by sea from Mallaig is an excellent expertise!
For all ferry data examine the Cal Mac web site (full identify Caledonian McBryde, how Scottish!). Additionally for those who converse French you’ll want to learn by means of the wonderful information by my buddies Eliza and Max from the Bestjobers, their information to the Isle of Skye helped immensely in planning our journey they usually’ve acquired unbelievable pictures!
From Edinburgh the Isle of Skye is roughly 4.5hrs for those who go by way of the Kyle of Lochlash and take the bridge. Should you’re hoping to additionally see lower throughout the gorgeous Loch Lomond Nationwide Park to see Glencoe and the well-known ‘Harry Potter Bridge’ at Glenfinnan then it’s higher to journey in direction of Mallaig and take the ferry. Journey time differs relying in your route however from Edinburgh to Mallaig it’s roughly 4hrs with out stops.
Travelling from Inverness is far shorter and it’s also possible to embrace the beauties of Loch Ness in your itinerary. Drive time is simply over two hours until you’re eager to cease and benefit from the ‘Photogenic Areas round Loch Ness’..particularly Plodda Falls, they’re a must-see!
The place to Keep on the Isle of Skye?
Should you’re eager to expertise all the outside have to supply, travelling in a campervan is an effective way to see the Isle of Skye. We ventured round in a Spaceships Leases van and liked being able to drag up wherever and sleep for the evening. I do love my comforts although and we opted to remain on the Kinloch Campsite and in addition Torvaig Caravan and Camp Web site, each providing heat showers!!
I extremely suggest basing your self in or round Portree when exploring the northern areas, particularly for those who plan on mountaineering the Previous Man of Storr or Quairaing for dawn or a late sundown. Portree is the primary hub on the Isle of Skye and right here you’ll discover a grocery store, bakery, cafes, eating places and boutique shops for those who’re eager to do a little bit of purchasing. It’s a terrific place to select up provides earlier than heading out for an extended day of exploring.
Dunn Cruinn Mattress & Breakfast
Sea Haze Mattress & Breakfast
Alternatively, for those who’re after a extra rural break, there are a variety of guesthouses dotted across the Isle of Skye and even some distinctive stays like those beneath.
Portree Wigwams – they’re tremendous cute and have been really my favorite kind of lodging to remain in. You’ll discover this hyperlink takes you to the Wigwam web site and you’ll then seek for not solely the Isle of Skye however Outer Hebrides or additional round Scotland. Not sponsored I simply love typing Wigwams again and again. Wigwam.
For additional data and particulars on entry costs, vacationer points of interest and excursions, examine the Go to Scotland web site for extra.
Have you ever been to the Isle of Skye? If that’s the case, both hyperlink to your pictures or social media/Instagram account within the feedback beneath or use the hashtag #thewanderinglens.
Good day! I’m the founder and photographer behind The Wandering Lens.
With 17+yrs expertise as an expert journey and panorama photographer, all recommendation discovered on this web site is from my private expertise on the street. I hope it’s helpful to your personal travels and would love to listen to within the feedback about your journeys and experiences world wide.
