Just off the west coast of Scotland, up in the Highlands, is an island called Skye – or the Isle of Skye, as it’s known. With landscapes for days, rolling hills decked in greens and burnished browns, and stretches of the most tranquil water you might ever have seen, it’s one of the most beautiful places on earth. In fact, Nadine Ijewere’s cover for British Vogue’s August issue depicts it perfectly; shot in 2017, Ijewere described Skye as “serene and calming”. Right on our doorsteps and a world away from the everyday (particularly that ongoing pandemic), there has never been a better time to head there.
Where to stay
With two ultra chic properties on Skye, Harlosh (which is run by the lovely and helpful Jason and Sarah) should be your first port of call for places to stay on the island. There is Black H, a minimalistic (and architecturally pleasing) black hut that sits on the island’s west coast, where you can expect to watch the sun rise from bed or in the living space, both of which have floor-to-ceiling glass walls on one side. Surrounded by open croft, it sleeps two people and is decked in cosy interiors – sheepskins and the like – making it a romantic weekend must-try. If there are more of you venturing to Skye, Harlosh Wood H is your best bet, as it sleeps six. As chic as Black H, expect expansive views of the sea and equally cosy interiors.
Where to eat
As well as being a great place to stay, Kinloch Lodge is excellent for a hearty Scottish meal by the fire. Founded by world-renowned cook, Claire Godfrey, and her husband, expect local produce – from scallops to beef – cooked to perfection. Sit by the fire and enjoy cocktails first and then move to the dining room, which is just as comfortable and with no pretence. The Three Chimneys is another legendary Scottish restaurant; head chef Scott Davies also harnesses the isle’s freshest ingredients, blending flavours unexpectedly for a meal that is both fun and binge-worthy – with wine to match. If you’re into whisky, there are two distilleries, Talisker and Torabhaig that are worth visiting too.
Where to explore
Expect to see nature and all its wonders on Skye – you’ll be surprised at how cinematic it actually is. Great places to explore include the fairy pools, which sit at the foot of the Black Cuillins near Glenbrittle; wild swimming at its finest, they are as clear as can be, clean and – extremely – cold. You also can’t visit Skye without walking to see the Old Man of Storr. Not an old man as such, “he” is actually a formation of rocks which, once climbed up to, offer amazing views of the surrounding land.
There are a number of adventure companies on Skye (Skye Adventure, Skye Wilderness Safaris and Isle of Skye Wildlife Tours to name three) that can offer you guidance and take you on trips or tours (from coasteering to climbing). You can also try things like sea kayaking – watch out for otters as you do – and stand-up paddle boarding.
Other places to visit include Dunvegan Castle, a not-so-humble abode (and Hebridean castle) that sits beside an expanse of water; Neist Point Lighthouse, which takes 45 minutes to walk to and is especially beautiful at sunset; and Coral Beach, known locally as “wee gem”, which is as picturesque as beaches come.
More from British Vogue:
