Beach campsites near Portree with hiking
Lively Portree provides the perfect base for exploring the Isle of Skye’s stunning scenery.
Popular camping styles for Portree
Beach campsites near Portree with hiking guide
Overview
As the main town on the Isle of Skye, Portree provides an excellent base for exploring the rest of the island, while staying close to the comforts of a (relatively) bustling settlement. Here, in contrast to the more remote parts of Skye, you can take your pick of places to eat and stock up on supplies. It’s also a cultural hub thanks to its Aros Centre, which runs a busy program of movies, theater and live music. Most appealing, however, is the town’s beautiful setting, with colorfully painted stone cottages clustered around a natural harbour that is fringed by cliffs.
Where to go
Around Town
Staying in Portree positions you well for making trips to the Isle of Skye’s most famous attractions, such as the Quaraing, Old Man of Storr and Kilt Rock. Within walking distance of Portree’s town center, and well-located for embarking on nearby walking routes, such as the Scorrybreac Trail, Torvaig Campsite has hard-standing pitches for motorhomes and caravans, as well as plenty of tent pitches, all with views of the striking Cuillin Hills.
Sligachan
The small settlement of Sligachan lies 10 miles south of Portree and is well-loved for its sweeping views of the Black Cuillin mountains. This is the perfect base for active travelers who wish to tackle some of Scotland’s best climbing—and reward themselves with a few pints at cozy Seumas' Bar, the Sligachan Hotel’s pub, afterward. Set close to a river, beneath the sweep of the mountain range, Sligachan Campsite has hard-standing and grass pitches that can accommodate tents, campervans, caravans and motorhomes.
Edinbane
A 20-minute drive northwest of Portree, the small village of Edinbane makes a handy base for exploring Skye’s three northerly peninsulas: Trotternish, Waternish and Durinish, home to some of Skye’s most dramatic scenery, best trails and attractions including the Old Man of Storr and Dunvegan Castle and Gardens. Set on the shores of Loch Greshornish, Skye Camping and Caravanning Club Site promises excellent views from its hard-standing and grass pitches, which offer plenty of space for campers, caravanners and motorhomes who are club members.
When to go
While summer can bless the Isle of Skye with glorious weather, it also brings overwhelmingly large crowds of tourists. If you can cope with cooler temperatures and the threat of rain, consider visiting in a quieter month, such as April/May or September/October. If you visit in winter, you can be sure of a crowd-free experience but some businesses may be closed.
Know before you go
- Some campsites in the area are seasonal: check opening dates before traveling.
- If you choose to wild camp, be sure to adhere to the Scottish Outdoor Access Code.
- While you can get around Skye by bus, having your own transport offers far more flexibility.
- You can easily find food, supplies and more in Portree’s stores.
- The weather is always unpredictable. Even in summer, you should bring warm, wet weather gear.
