Beach campsites in Isle of Skye with hiking
The “misty isle” of Skye is packed with natural beauty and one of Scotland’s top draws.
- Isle of Skye
Popular camping styles for Isle of Skye
Beach campsites in Isle of Skye with hiking guide
Overview
Whether you’re a keen camper or just want to be surrounded by beautiful scenery, you’ll find plenty to appeal on the Isle of Skye. Home to some of Scotland’s most spectacular landscapes—from jagged mountains and sea cliffs to waterfalls and velvety moors—this Inner Hebridean island is a magnet for travellers from near and afar, who come for the mountain climbing, hillwalking, and wildlife-spotting. The island’s beauty has led to overtourism in recent years, but you can still avoid crowds by visiting outside of the peak summer months—it’s a year-round destination, but you’ll feel like you have it to yourself in winter.
Where to go
Sleat Peninsula
Visitors travelling on the Isle of Skye by ferry from Mallaig on the Scottish mainland arrive in Armadale at the southern end of the Sleat peninsula. The peninsula is home to both heather-clad hills and rocky shores, meaning the 5.5-mile (9-kilometre) walk to the Point of Sleat, the most southerly point on Skye, is a top activity. Close to the ferry terminal, you’ll find tent and caravan camping options in wooded areas and by the shoreline.
Central Skye
Central Skye makes an excellent base for exploring the rest of the island while staying close to the comforts of the main town of Portree. It’s an especially convenient location for those travelling over the bridge from the mainland. You’ll find a range of campsites in desirable settings, from close to Portree’s town centre to under the shadow of the Black Cuillin mountain range and the shores of Loch Brittle.
Trotternish
The stunning northernmost Trotternish peninsula has near endless hiking opportunities and is home to some of Skye’s most famous sites, including the Old Man of Storr, Quiraing, Kilt Rock, the Fairy Glen, and Lealt Falls. Between the Old Man of Storr and the Quiraing, you’ll find camping pitches that include glamping cabins and waterfront pitches on a working croft.
Duirinish
The northwestern Duirinish Peninsula is home to some of Skye’s wildest scenery, dominated by the flat-topped mountains of Healabhal Mhòr and Healabhal Bheag, or “Macleod's Tables.” Neist Point is one of Skye’s most-photographed landmarks, and many make the journey just to dine at the Three Chimneys restaurant. Near Dunvegan Castle, you’ll find tent and motorhome pitches on the shore of Loch Dunvegan.
