Where to Stay on Skye - 12 Best Areas on the Isle of Skye

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Connected to Scotland's northwest coast, the Isle of Skye is a travel destination that people come from all over the world to experience. There are many famous landmarks and stunning landscapes to enjoy during your trip.

The hiking opportunities throughout the region are also plentiful, with jaw-dropping views of the Cuillin Mountains and the vast coastline. Wildlife watching is another popular activity to partake in. This truly is a nature lovers' paradise!

In terms of places to stay, the Isle of Skye has many charming towns that each offer a unique perspective of the island. With excellent restaurants and accommodations, you will not be disappointed with the variety. Continue to read if you want to learn where to stay on the Isle of Skye.

12 Best Places to Stay on the Isle of Skye

Best Areas to Stay in the Isle of Skye

Portree

Portree is one of the best places to stay in the Isle of Skye if you enjoy picturesque views, a variety of wildlife, and cultural immersion. The Trotternish Peninsula extends from Portree to the northeast.

Portree is a great location to stay if you want to be connected to other towns on the island. Another picturesque spot is Portree Harbor. This is the perfect location to enjoy fresh seafood at local restaurants that line the waterfront.

There are also many hotels in this region that offer excellent accommodation. Portree has campgrounds as well, which is beneficial for travelers on a budget.

🏨 Mid-range place to stay in and nearby Portree

• Quiraing View Pod (top-rated)

🏖 Child-friendly places to stay in and nearby Portree

• Greshornish House Hotel (well-regarded)
• The Roses B&B (highly acclaimed)
• The Loft at Strathardle - Lochside Apartment (beautiful waterside scenery)

💕 Romantic accommodation in and nearby Portree

• Kilmuir Park (4-star rating)

🛎️ Luxury accommodation in and nearby Portree

• Monkstadt 1745 Luxury Lodge (5-star rating)

Uig

Located on the west coast, you will find the charming coastal village of Uig. This region serves as a departure point for ferries to the Western Isles. It is an excellent location for connecting to the other towns in the region. The budget to stay in Uig is relatively inexpensive, from fairly priced hotels to self-catering accomodations, this region is budget-friendly.

There are also some landmarks and popular sights to see in this area. The Rha Waterfalls are a must-see during your stay in Uig. The cascading water and lush greenery will take your breath away!

The Fairy Glen is another magical destination composed of bizarre rock formations and conical hills. There are many myths and legends about the area which are fascinating to learn about. If you are a craft beer enthusiast, The Isle of Skye Brewery is also an excellent spot to stop and sample local brews.

🎉 View the best Uig accommodation prices

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• View prices at Agoda

Broadford

About 15 minutes after crossing the Skye Bridge, you will arrive in a tranquil town called Broadford. The Red Cuillin Mountains serve as the region's backdrop, an absolutely marvelous sight. Broadford is an excellent entry point to the Isle of Skye.

This picturesque setting is ideal for hiking, climbing, and wildlife watching. If you are looking for a more low-key activity, the scenic bay in Broadford is perfect for a stroll. This is also an excellent camping area for those on a budget and looking to pitch a tent or park an RV.

After taking in the natural beauty of Broadford, you can explore local restaurants and museums. There is also a wonderful selection of shops that offer products from artwork to jewelry.

🏨 Well-priced accommodation in and nearby Broadford

• Heatherbrae Cosy Wooden Pod (top-rated)

🏖 Family-friendly accommodations in and nearby Broadford

• Scorrybreac B&B (rated highly)
• Heatherbrae Cosy Wooden Pod (loved by guests)
• Toravaig House Hotel (very highly rated)

Colbost

In the northwestern part of Skye sits the magnificent village of Colbost. This small settlement is known for its close proximity to major attractions as well as its fine dining options. Colbost is famous for its 5-star restaurant, The Three Chimneys. This establishment has been awarded a Michelin Plate, a very high honor for a restaurant.

Beyond this excellent eatery, Colbost offers an array of spectacular cliff walks. The iconic Neist Point Lighthouse is less than a 20-minute drive from the heart of Colbost. The gorgeous Dunvegan Castle is also a short drive away. Colbost is the best place to stay on the Isle of Skye if you want to take part in a range of diverse excursions and have good access to many landmarks.

Regarding accommodations, there are beautiful B&Bs and cottages in this region. Despite Colbost being considered by some as the best place to stay in the Isle of Skye, it may cost you more than residing in other towns. Keep this in mind when planning your excursions.

🏖 Child-friendly places to stay in and nearby Colbost

• Birdsong Bothy Inviting One Bedroom House in Colbost (rated highly)
• Skeabost House Hotel (4-star rating)

Edinbane

Often referred to as a hidden gem, Edinbane is the best town to stay in the Isle of the Skye if you prefer a quiet countryside experience. There are a variety of quaint B&Bs that will set the scene for a relaxing trip.

The sleepy town is home to not one but two restaurants, the Edinbane Lodge Restaurant and the Edinbane Inn, that have been awarded Michelin Plate honors. These are the ideal places to sample fresh, locally sourced food.

Edinbane is less touristy than other locations, which makes it an ideal location for a quaint getaway. From rolling hills to the beautiful lake, you cannot help but feel at peace in Edinbane. You can also find accommodations that cater to a variety of price points in this area.

🏖 Family-friendly accommodation in and nearby Edinbane

• Greshornish House Hotel (4-star)

Armadale

The small village of Armadale has a wide variety of activities to offer and places to visit. From castles to museums, the region certainly has a significant cultural heritage.

The area offers charming B&Bs as well as hotels that offer you close proximity to the Armadale Ferry Terminal. The ferry makes it easy to connect to the mainland from the island. Some of these accommodations may run a bit more on the expensive side depending on the time of year you visit.

A primary landmark here is Armadale Castle. This British landmark and historic site was once the base for the McDonald Clan. The castle is in ruins, but the surrounding gardens have been elegantly restored to their original beauty.

Nestled within the grounds is the Museum of the Isles. After a stroll through the gardens, this is the perfect place to explore. The Museum of the Isles provides visitors with a fresh perspective on the Scottish highlands.

🎉 View the best Armadale accommodation prices

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Dunvegan

Dunvegan is the best place to stay if you want to explore Dunvegan Castle, one of the oldest continuously inhabited castles in Scotland. During a visit, you can wander through the manicured gardens and grandiose interior rooms and learn about the history of the MacLeod Clan.

Dunvegan is a great place to reside if you are exploring the island on a budget. Hotels in the region are affordable. If you enjoy the outdoors, there are beautiful campsites that will not break the bank while also offering you stunning scenic views. Located on the west side of the island, you will have quick access to other towns like Edinbane.

There are also wonderful hiking options in the area that allow you to fully take in the enchanting landscapes. One off-the-beaten-path excursion is going to Orbost Beach (Varkasaig Beach), where you will find black sands. If you enjoy wildlife watching, you are in luck. From Dunvegan, you can take a boat trip to an area home to the Loch Dunvegan seal colony.

🏖 Family-friendly accommodations in and nearby Dunvegan

• The Loft at Strathardle - Lochside Apartment (rated highly)
• Kilmuir Park (very highly rated)
• Skeabost House Hotel (4-star rating)

💕 Romantic place to stay in and nearby Dunvegan

• Kilmuir Park (4-star rating)

Staffin

Just beneath the Trottenish Ridge sits the village of Staffin. This village is in the northern region of the island, close to Uig. The raw natural beauty of Staffin is truly captivating!

From updated farmhouse B&Bs to luxury self-catering accommodations, you will feel right at home. The cost of staying here is slightly more pricey compared to other options, depending on the time of year you visit.

Visitors come from all over to see the famous dinosaur footprints located around Staffin Dinosaur Museum that date back 170 million years. These impressive tracks can be found on the gorgeous shores of Corran Beach, which in itself is a stunning landscape to take in.

Kilt Rock and Mealt Falls are two must-see destinations located in this region. Although technically in Portree, they sit right on the Staffin border. Both of these locations can be accessed from the roadside viewpoint, where you can admire the dramatic cliffs and picturesque scenery.

🏨 Mid-range place to stay in and nearby Staffin

• Quiraing View Pod (highly acclaimed)

🏖 Child-friendly place to stay in and nearby Staffin

• Quiraing View Pod (rated highly)

Isleornsay

This area is known as the "Garden of Skye" because of its natural beauty and scenic views. Outdoor enthusiasts will be enchanted by Isleornsay. The picturesque village is located on the south coast of Skye, situated on the shores of the Sound of Sleat.

Isleornsay overlooks the island of Ornsay, which is a wonderful place to explore. The beautiful sea views from the island are unparalleled. There are a number of B&Bs that offer lodging at relatively inexpensive prices, which work well for travelers on a budget.

The village is also home to Eliean Iarmain, a historic estate that gives visitors a glimpse into the Scottish way of life. This hotel has a restaurant with traditional cuisine, which is ideal for immersing yourself in the Scottish atmosphere.

🏖 Family-friendly accommodations in and nearby Isleornsay

• Hillside (highly rated)
• Hotel Eilean Iarmain (loved by guests)
• Duisdale House Hotel (4-star rating)

💕 Romantic accommodation in and nearby Isleornsay

• Duisdale House Hotel (rated 4-stars)

Carbost

Carbost is the largest settlement on the Minginish Peninsula and is best known for the Talisker Distillery. It is located in the southwestern part of Skye. This is the best area to stay in the Isle of Sky if you are a whisky enthusiast. You can even take a tour of the Talisker Distillery to learn about the whiskey-making process.

Another major attraction near the town is the famous Fairy Pools, a series of turquoise pools and stunning waterfalls. The scenery is truly enchanting, and you can reach this natural landmark in around 15 minutes when driving from Carbost. This town offers visitors excellent hotel accommodations, and there are B&Bs in the area that cater more to those on a budget.

🏖 Family-friendly accommodations in and nearby Carbost

• The Loft at Strathardle - Lochside Apartment (top-rated)
• The Tables Guest House (loved by guests)
• Bracadale House (mesmerizing waterside views)

💕 Romantic accommodation in and nearby Carbost

• Kilmuir Park (very highly rated)

Kyleakin

Kyleakin is somewhat more removed from the main attractions of the Isle of Skye, situated on the east coast about an hour away from key sights. It's home to the Skye Bridge, which is the connection between the Isle of Skye and the mainland. This makes it a great starting location on your journey through the region.

Even though Kyleakin is further from the main sightseeing locations, it still has its own unique offerings. For example, the village features a ruined 14th-century castle called Caisteal Maol. You can explore the ruins while enjoying panoramic views of the surrounding scenery.

Kyleakin will appeal most to a traveler who wants to stay close to the mainland as their home base. There are also excellent hotel and hostel options that are affordable for those on a budget.

🏖 Child-friendly places to stay in and nearby Kyleakin

• Hillside (top-rated)
• Kinloch Ainort Apartments (rated highly)
• Toravaig House Hotel (4-star rating)

Sconser

Sconser is the best place to stay in Skye if you prefer a centrally located home base. Because of its central location, you will be within an hour of popular destinations such as the Fairy Pools, the Old Man of Storr, and the Quiraing.

The picturesque views of Sconser make it an ideal location for nature lovers. Golf enthusiasts also will enjoy the Isle Of Skye Golf Club, which is an 18-hole course situated right on the water's edge.

Sconser has a peaceful ambiance and close proximity to main attractions, which makes it an ideal location to reside during your travels. There are various B&Bs as well as the Sconser Lodge, which is budget-friendly.

🏖 Child-friendly places to stay in and nearby Sconser

• Scorrybreac B&B (scored highly by guests)
• Sligachan Hotel

Where to Stay in the Isle of Skye

Where to stay in the Isle of Skye with Family?

Portree is the best area to stay in the Isle of Skye when traveling with family. Portree is the largest town and a central hub for exploring all of the key sights of Skye. There are multiple child-friendly activities in the village that are ideal for traveling families.

The Aros Center features cinema and exhibition settings that engage individuals of all ages. It is a convenient base due to all of the public transportation services at your fingertips. The town is well connected with other parts of the island, which makes sightseeing with family much easier.

🏖 Child-friendly places to stay in and nearby Portree

• Greshornish House Hotel (well-rated)
• The Roses B&B (rated highly)
• The Loft at Strathardle - Lochside Apartment (stunning waterside views)

Where to stay on the Isle of Skye for Sightseeing?

There are two villages in Skye that provide tourists with easy access to all the key sights. Both also have excellent dining and accommodation options.

Portree is the central hub of Skye, which makes it a great location to reside when you want to see the main attractions. From Portree, you can easily access popular destinations such as the Old Man of Storr, Quiraing, and Talisker Distillery.

Broadford is also one of the best places to stay in the isle of the Skye for sightseeing. Located in the southern part of the island, Broadford also offers easy access to the main attractions.

🏨 Mid-range place to stay in and nearby Portree

• Skye Eco Bells (highly rated)

🛎️ Luxury place to stay in and nearby Portree

• Monkstadt 1745 Luxury Lodge (exceptional rating)

Where to stay on the Isle of Skye for Cheap?

Traveling through the Isle of Skye is possible when you are on a budget. Hostels are a budget-friendly option for travelers.

If you're wondering where to stay in the Isle of Skye on a budget, you can find dormitory-style hostels in Portree and Broadford. This accommodation will help keep the costs down during your stay.

Camping is another method for those looking to explore the island in a cheaper way. There are campsite locations across the island, but check regulations before setting up camp.

Another way to maintain your trip on a budget is to visit during the off-peak season when some attractions may have reduced pricing. The off-season is considered from late autumn to early spring.

🏨 Mid-range place to stay in and nearby Portree

• Quiraing View Pod (well-regarded)

Where to stay on the Isle of Skye for Camping?

The island is an absolutely breathtaking destination with numerous camping options. Carbost is the best place to stay on the Isle of Skye for travelers who enjoy camping. Glenbrittle Campsite is surrounded by stunning scenery, including the famous Fairy Pools and the Cuillin Mountains.

The campsite offers basic facilities, like showers and toilets, which will make your camping experience more enjoyable. This is an excellent location for exploring the southern part of the island.

The northern part is best explored with a home base at the Staffin Caravan & Camping Site. This location is known for its picturesque coastal views.

🎉 View the best Carbost lodging deals

• View prices at Booking.com
• View prices at Agoda

Where to stay in the Isle of Skye for Hiking?

Portree is the best town to stay in the Isle of Skye if you want a central location that has access to many popular trails. The trails to locations such as the Old Man of Storr, the Quiraing, and the Fairy Pools are rather close.

Another option is Carbost. Located on the shores of Loch Harport, Carbost is a village known for its proximity to the Cuillin Mountains. Numerous hiking trails in the region offer beautiful landscapes.

🏨 Mid-range place to stay in and nearby Portree

• Quiraing View Pod (rated highly)

🛎️ Luxury accommodation in and nearby Portree

• Monkstadt 1745 Luxury Lodge (5-star rating)

In Summary

The breathtaking landscapes of the Isle of Skye enchant travelers of all backgrounds and ages. The island is truly an outdoor enthusiast's paradise with a vast variety of flora and fauna.

It is easy to fully immerse yourself in the Scottish wildlife with a stay at one of the many charming villages. No matter where you end up, friendly locals, delicious food, and beautiful scenery will make your stay on the Isle of Skye unforgettable.

This article was edited by Alli Sewell.

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