Isle of Skye Walking Holiday – The Best of Skye
Spend a week properly exploring the Isle of Skye, combining some of the island’s best-known walks with coast, communities, local makers and plenty of places you might otherwise drive straight past.
Over seven nights we’ll explore different parts of the island, from the Point of Sleat and Glen Brittle to the Quiraing, Coral Beach and the Old Man of Storr. But this isn’t simply about ticking off walks. We’ll also spend time in Portree, visit local cafés and makers, discover quieter corners of Skye and, weather permitting, have the option of heading out by boat towards the Small Isles.
With a maximum of eight people, transport from Glasgow and all our transport around Skye included, it’s an easy and sociable way to get to know the island.
Holiday at a Glance
Duration
7 nights · 6 walking days
Walking grade
Leisurely
Distance
Approx. 6–10 miles per day
Price
From £1250pp
Group size
Maximum 8
Accommodation
Cottage
Transport
Car-free · Transport included
Meals
Daily breakfasts, packed lunches on walking days and three evening meals included. Other evening meals are at your own expense.
Check Dates & Book Your Place
Upcoming departure dates:
Saturday 1 - Saturday 8 May 2027
Saturday 15 - Saturday 22 May 2027
Saturday 24 - Saturday 31 July 2027
Saturday 7 - Saturday 14 August 2027
Saturday 14 - Saturday 21 August 2027
Choose your preferred date and room type in the booking form to check availability and reserve your place.
Deposits – Pay a 20% deposit when booking more than 12 weeks before departure. The remaining balance is due 12 weeks before departure.
Exploring the Isle of Skye
There's much more to Skye than its famous viewpoints, and this holiday gives us time to discover the island beyond the usual tourist stops.
Alongside our guided walks, we'll explore villages, coastal communities and quieter corners of the island. We'll make time for local cafés, independent shops and, where possible, artists' studios, weavers and other island makers.
We'll also discover some of Skye's fascinating history, from its clan connections and ancient castles to the Norse influences still reflected in its place names.
Having our own transport gives us the freedom to explore different parts of the island and adapt our plans to make the most of the weather.
With just eight guests, there's plenty of time to enjoy the scenery, stop somewhere interesting and get to know each other along the way.
Highlights
Walk through some of Skye's best-known landscapes, including the Quiraing, Glen Brittle and the Old Man of Storr.
Discover quieter corners of the island, including the Sleat Peninsula, Coral Beach, Talisker Bay and Neist Point.
Experience island life through local communities, cafés, artists and independent makers.
Optional wildlife boat trip from Elgol towards Canna and Rùm, subject to weather and availability.
Enjoy a small, sociable group of no more than eight guests.
Travel from Glasgow and explore Skye with transport throughout the holiday included.
Suggested Itinerary
One of the advantages of this holiday is that we don't need to rigidly follow the same plan every week.
Skye's weather can be very different from one part of the island to another, so your host will use the forecast and local conditions to decide what works best. We may change the order of days, swap walks or make the most of other opportunities we discover along the way.
The following gives you a good idea of the places and experiences we aim to include.
If you’re a keen dipper, although this is a walking-based holiday, there are plenty of chances to explore Skye’s lochs, beaches, and waterfalls. So, if you fancy a refreshing dip in Scotland’s wild waters, don’t forget to pack your cosy!
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Our holiday starts with collection in Glasgow before we head north towards Skye.
Rather than treating today simply as a transfer, we'll make the journey part of the holiday. We normally stop around Tyndrum before continuing through Glencoe, with time to appreciate the landscape and hear a little about the area's history.
We'll continue via Fort William and Fort Augustus, where we can stop for lunch and stretch our legs beside Loch Ness. We'll also aim to stop at Eilean Donan Castle before crossing the Skye Bridge.
Before reaching our accommodation, we'll call for supplies so you can pick up any extras, including snacks or something to drink during the week.
Once we're settled into our cottage, your host will prepare our first evening meal and we'll get together to talk through the week ahead.
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We start our exploration at Skye's southern end on the Sleat Peninsula.
Our walk to the Point of Sleat is around eight miles and takes us through a gentler side of the island, eventually reaching the remote southern tip.
There's a mixture of tracks and rockier sections, plus a beach along the way where there may even be an opportunity to dip your feet in the water. On a clear day, we can look across towards Eigg and Rùm.
After the walk, we'll aim to stop around Armadale for refreshments before returning to our accommodation.
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Today takes us north towards Trotternish.
We'll explore Fairy Glen near Uig and make a short stop at Rha Waterfall before continuing towards the Quiraing.
Our main walk is around seven miles and takes us through the unusual landslip landscape, including formations such as the Prison and Needle. We'll also head out towards the coast, where clear conditions can give us views towards the Outer Hebrides.
We'll normally stop for dinner on our journey back.
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Today is deliberately different, combining a shorter walk with more time exploring the people and places of northwest Skye.
We'll start with an approximately three-mile walk at Coral Beach near Dunvegan. Its pale shoreline isn't actually coral but fragments of calcified red coralline seaweed.
From here, we'll spend more of the day exploring locally. Depending on opening times, this may include Dunvegan, the studio of local artist Cath Waters, the Hebridean Alpaca Shop and Skye Weavers in Glendale, where traditional weaving is carried out using a bicycle pedal-powered loom.
We also like to call at Glendale Community Hall when its local craft events are running, where you can meet and buy directly from island makers.
We'll aim to finish around Neist Point, with its lighthouse, cliffs and views west towards the Outer Hebrides, before finding somewhere for dinner on our return journey.
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Weather permitting, today gives us the opportunity to see Skye and the surrounding islands from a completely different perspective.
Aqua Explore operates fast RIB trips from Elgol towards the Small Isles. The journey can include the cliffs of Canna, time ashore on the island, seal colonies and views of Rùm.
These waters are also home to a wide range of wildlife, with possible sightings including dolphins, Minke whales and seabirds.
The boat trip is optional and carries an additional charge. It is also completely weather-dependent, so we will normally place it on whichever day offers the best conditions rather than being tied to Day 5.
If the boat cannot operate, we'll use the day to explore another part of Skye.
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We'll begin with an approximately two-mile walk at Talisker Bay before heading towards Carbost for refreshments.
Depending on timings, there may be the opportunity for an optional visit to Talisker Distillery before we continue towards Sligachan.
Our main walk follows the Glen Brittle path for around eight miles, taking us through the valley beneath the Cuillin rather than onto their summits.
Towards the end of the route, we'll see the cascades above the Fairy Pools from the quieter upper approach, avoiding the busiest section below.
We'll return to our accommodation for one of our home-cooked evening meals.
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For our final full day, we'll head back towards northeast Skye and one of the island's best-known landmarks – the Old Man of Storr.
The walk is relatively short but includes a steep climb, taking us up amongst the rock formations with views across towards Raasay and the Scottish mainland when conditions are clear.
Afterwards we'll continue to Portree, with free time to explore the harbour, browse the shops or find a café.
We'll finish our week with dinner together and a chance to look back over everything we've managed to fit into our time on Skye.
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After breakfast, we'll leave our cottage and begin the journey south.
Again, there's no need to make this simply a dash back down the road. Depending on timings, we'll stop for lunch and may call at Highland shops or cafés along the way.
We aim to reach Glasgow between 15:00 and 17:00, with drop-offs available in the city centre and at Glasgow Airport.
Road conditions can make journey times unpredictable, so please leave plenty of flexibility when arranging onward travel.
Essential Information
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Meeting Locations & Times
We offer organised collections from Glasgow on Day 1, making it easy to enjoy your Isle of Skye holiday without a car.
Glasgow City Centre – 08:30
Our only city centre collection point is:
ibis Styles Glasgow Central
116 Waterloo Street
Glasgow
G2 7DNA hotel discount code is available in your booking confirmation if you'd like to stay here before or after the holiday.
Glasgow International Airport – Approximately 08:45 onwards
We offer collections from the following airport hotels:
Glasgow Airport Marriott Hotel
Travelodge Glasgow Airport
Premier Inn Glasgow Airport
Holiday Inn Express Glasgow Airport
Holiday Inn Glasgow Airport
We can also collect from the designated hotel pickup area outside the airport's main terminal, in Car Park 2.
Hotel collections are complimentary. Terminal collection costs £7 per person to cover airport access charges.
We'll collect guests from the airport hotels and terminal in turn, so individual pickup times may vary.
All collection locations must be selected and booked in advance.
Travelling by Train
Glasgow Central is the nearest main railway station to our city centre pickup point, approximately a four-minute walk from ibis Styles Glasgow Central.
We don't collect directly from railway stations. Please make your own way to the hotel in time for the 08:30 departure.
Station Pickups
We don't offer railway station pickups on this holiday.
Guests arriving by train should use our Glasgow city centre collection point at ibis Styles Glasgow Central.
Travelling by Car & Parking
You don't need a car for this holiday, as we'll provide transport from Glasgow and throughout the week on Skye.
If you're driving to Glasgow, please arrange your own parking for the duration of the holiday.
Transport During the Trip
All transport required for our planned walks and activities on Skye is included.
We'll travel together in our Large Outdoors vehicle, allowing us to explore different parts of the island without the need to organise your own transport.
Ferries & Boat Transfers
No scheduled ferry or boat transfers are required for our journey to Skye or the planned walking itinerary.
Departure & Return Travel
On Day 8, we'll return to Glasgow, aiming to arrive between 14:00 and 16:00.
Return drop-offs are available at our Glasgow city centre collection point, selected airport hotels and Glasgow International Airport.
Drop-offs at the airport terminal cost £7 per person to cover airport access charges. Airport hotel drop-offs are complimentary.
Please allow flexibility when booking onward trains or flights, as traffic and road conditions can affect our return time.
Important Travel Information
Please book your preferred Glasgow collection and return drop-off locations in advance.
The journey between Glasgow and Skye takes several hours, so please ensure you're at your chosen collection point in good time.
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Accommodation Location
We'll spend seven nights in a comfortable cottage just outside Broadford, in the south of the Isle of Skye.
It's a lovely base for exploring the island, with no need to pack up and move accommodation during the week.
Accommodation Type
Our self-catering cottage provides a relaxed, sociable home for the week, with comfortable shared spaces where everyone can unwind after a day exploring Skye.
The lounge enjoys lovely views across the nearby loch, and we've even been known to spot white-tailed sea eagles from the windows!
There's a log burner for cooler evenings, along with full central heating to keep everyone comfortable.
The cottage also has a drying room, washing machine and tumble dryer, particularly useful after a wet day on the island.
Bedrooms & Sleeping Arrangements
Accommodation is in a mixture of shared and private bedrooms, depending on the room option selected when booking.
Guests booking shared accommodation will share with another guest of the same sex.
Private twin and double rooms are available for guests booking together, with occasional sole occupancy options depending on the departure.
Room Options
Shared Female Room – Your own bed in a room shared with another female guest.
Shared Male Room – Your own bed in a room shared with another male guest.
Twin Room – A private room for two people, with separate beds.
Double Room – A private room for two people sharing one double bed.
Sole Occupancy Double – A private double room for one person, available on selected departures.
All room options are subject to availability on your chosen departure.
Bathrooms
Bathroom facilities are shared within the cottage.
Bedding & Towels
Bedding and one towel per guest are provided.
Please bring your own toiletries.
Breakfast
Breakfast is included every morning.
We keep things informal, with a help-yourself selection of toast, cereals, fruit and yoghurt available at the cottage.
Packed Lunches
Packed lunches are included on our six walking days.
You'll be able to prepare sandwiches and snacks at the cottage before heading out for the day.
Please bring a reusable water bottle and any additional snacks you'd like.
Evening Meals
Three evening meals are included during the holiday, with a home-cooked, two-course dinner served at the cottage.
On the other four evenings, we'll head out together to local pubs or restaurants, giving us the opportunity to enjoy more of Skye's food and hospitality.
These meals are not included in the holiday price, and everyone pays for their own food and drinks.
Please let us know about any dietary requirements when booking so we can plan accordingly.
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Accommodation & Meals
Included
Seven nights' accommodation in our cottage near Broadford.
Breakfast every morning.
Packed lunches on six walking days.
Three home-cooked, two-course evening meals at the cottage.
Tea and coffee at the accommodation.
Not Included
Four evening meals at local pubs or restaurants.
Additional food, drinks and refreshments purchased during the holiday.
Alcoholic drinks.
Guiding & Support
Included
Six full days of guided walking and exploring across the Isle of Skye.
An experienced Large Outdoors walking guide throughout the holiday.
A small, sociable group of no more than eight guests.
A flexible itinerary, allowing us to adapt our plans to the weather and conditions.
Pre-trip information and support.
Not Included
Personal walking clothing, equipment and toiletries.
Transport & Transfers
Included
Collection from our designated Glasgow city centre meeting point.
Complimentary collection from selected Glasgow Airport hotels, when booked in advance.
Return transport to Glasgow at the end of the holiday.
All transport required for our planned walks and activities throughout the week.
Not Included
Travel to and from Glasgow.
Glasgow Airport terminal collection and drop-off charges of £7 per person each way, where applicable.
Additional Costs & Exclusions
Not Included
Optional wildlife boat trip from Elgol towards Canna and Rùm, subject to weather, availability and the itinerary. This costs approximately £80 per person and is paid separately.
Any other optional activities or attraction admission fees.
Personal purchases and additional spending during the holiday.
Personal travel and activity insurance.
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Walking Grade
Leisurely
This holiday is graded Leisurely, with six days of relaxed, sociable walking and exploring across the Isle of Skye.
We'll take our time, enjoying the scenery, stopping for photographs and allowing plenty of opportunities for a breather.
Skye has some wonderfully wild landscapes, but this isn't a holiday about rushing or covering miles as quickly as possible.
Terrain & Conditions
We'll explore a mixture of coastal paths, hillside trails, woodland tracks and open countryside.
Some of Skye's paths are less well-walked and less defined than you might be used to, with uneven, rocky or boggy sections underfoot.
There will also be occasional hills and climbs, but we'll tackle these at a comfortable pace.
Fitness & Experience
You don't need to be an experienced hillwalker, but you should be comfortable spending several hours walking outdoors, including on uneven ground.
A reasonable level of walking fitness is recommended.
Our small group and relaxed approach mean there's plenty of time to enjoy the walking without feeling rushed.
Seasonal Conditions
Skye's weather can be changeable, with sunshine, rain and wind all possible during the same day.
Paths can become wet, muddy or slippery, so waterproof clothing and sturdy walking footwear are important.
We'll adapt our walks to suit the weather and ground conditions, making the most of the island throughout the week.
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Walking Clothing & Footwear
Skye's weather can be changeable, and some paths are rocky, muddy or less well-defined.
We recommend bringing:
Comfortable, waterproof walking boots with good grip.
Waterproof jacket and trousers.
Comfortable walking clothing and warm layers.
Walking socks.
Hat and gloves for cooler or windy days.
What to Carry on Walks
Bring a comfortable day rucksack containing:
Packed lunch and snacks.
Reusable water bottle.
Waterproofs and an extra warm layer.
Any personal medication.
Sunscreen and sunglasses.
Clothing for Accommodation
Bring comfortable casual clothing for relaxing at the cottage and joining the group for evening meals.
The cottage has a washing machine, tumble dryer and drying room, so there's no need to pack fresh walking clothes for every day.
Please also bring your own toiletries.
Trip-Specific Extras
Cash for Meals and Local Purchases
Please remember to bring some cash with you.
Most places on Skye accept card payments, but cash is still preferred by some smaller businesses.
It also makes splitting bills much easier when we're eating out as a group, particularly in restaurants that may not be able to process eight or nine separate card payments.
You won't need to pay for everything in cash, but having some notes and coins available will be really helpful.
Full Kit List
We've put together a useful walking kit list to help you prepare for your holiday.
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Booking Confirmation
Once you've booked, you'll receive a confirmation email with your booking details and our full booking terms.
Deposits & Balance Payments
If you've paid a deposit, we'll automatically email you a reminder when your remaining balance is due. Balances are normally due 12 weeks before departure.
Your Trip WhatsApp Group
Ahead of your trip, we'll invite you to join a dedicated WhatsApp group for your holiday.
It's a great way to say hello to your fellow walkers, ask questions and get to know everyone before you arrive. Most of our guests join us on their own, so it's a nice way to break the ice.
Joining is entirely optional.
Final Details
A couple of days before departure, we'll send you a final reminder with your guide or host's name and contact number, along with any important last-minute information.
Keeping Up to Date
Everything you need to plan your trip, including meeting locations, times, accommodation and travel arrangements, is provided on this page.
We recommend checking back here from time to time before departure, as we'll update the page if any arrangements change. You don't need to wait for your final email to organise your travel.
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Will there be midges on Skye?
Possibly! Midges are part of life in the Scottish Highlands and Islands, particularly between late spring and early autumn.
They're usually most noticeable in sheltered areas when the weather is warm, still and damp. Breezy conditions tend to keep them away.
We recommend bringing a good midge repellent, such as Smidge, and a lightweight midge head net if you're visiting during the warmer months.
Don't let them put you off visiting Skye. We'll use our local knowledge and flexible itinerary to make the most of the conditions.
Can I come on my own?
Absolutely! Most people joining Large Outdoors holidays book on their own, so you'll be in good company.
With a maximum of just eight guests, it's a friendly, sociable way to explore Skye and get to know your fellow travellers.
Is this holiday suitable for someone visiting Skye for the first time?
Definitely. This holiday is designed to give you a varied introduction to the island, combining famous landscapes with quieter places, local communities and time to explore.
It's also a great option if you've visited Skye before but would like to discover more of the island.
Do I have to join every walk and activity?
Not at all. You're welcome to take some time out if you'd prefer a quieter day.
As we travel together and explore different parts of the island, any alternative arrangements will depend on where we're visiting that day. Just have a chat with your guide.
What's the difference between this holiday and your Skye Trail holiday?
This is our more relaxed, varied Isle of Skye holiday, combining Leisurely guided walks with sightseeing, local communities and time to explore.
Our Skye Trail holiday is aimed at guests wanting a more walking-focused experience, following a longer-distance route across the island.
Will we have time to explore local shops, cafés and villages?
Yes! That's an important part of this holiday.
Alongside our walks, we'll make time for local cafés, independent shops, artists and makers whenever the itinerary and opening times allow.
Check Dates & Book Your Place
Upcoming departure dates:
Saturday 1 - Saturday 8 May 2027
Saturday 15 - Saturday 22 May 2027
Saturday 24 - Saturday 31 July 2027
Saturday 7 - Saturday 14 August 2027
Saturday 14 - Saturday 21 August 2027
Choose your preferred date and room type in the booking form to check availability and reserve your place.
Deposits – Pay a 20% deposit when booking more than 12 weeks before departure. The remaining balance is due 12 weeks before departure.
Questions Before You Book?
Not sure whether this walking holiday is right for you? We're always happy to help with questions about the walks, accommodation or joining us on your own.
Email hello@largeoutdoors.com or get in touch through WhatsApp.
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