Scotland’s Isle of Skye: A Charming Coastal Village with Fresh Seafood and Unique Lodgings

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Scotland's Isle of Skye: A Charming Coastal Village with Fresh Seafood and Unique Lodgings

Budget-friendly isn’t generally associated with an island vacation, but there are certain exceptions to this rule found all over the world. And one of these, off the coast of Scotland, is probably the country’s most famous island: the Isle of Skye. Not only is it famed for breathtaking landscapes, but the Isle of Skye also offers a scenic vacation at a low cost. The beauty of Skye is legendary for good reason. Imagine waterfalls cascading into the sea, endless fields of impossible green dotted with the occasional white sheep, stark and steep mountains, historic whisky distilleries, picturesque castles, and several charming villages: that’s the Isle of Skye. 



One of the most charming of Skye’s villages is also its capital, Portree. Like any good Scottish island town, it has the requisite harbor with traditional fishing boats, grand historical buildings, several pubs, and a line of colorful buildings reflected in the clear water. Base yourself in Portree and take advantage of the beauty, along with its unique accommodation options, cozy pubs, and the freshest seafood around.

Portree, the capital of the Isle of Skye

Streets of Portree, Scotland, lined with colorful houses and hedges



Visiting Skye is considered by many (with good reason) one of the best activities you can’t skip on a trip to Scotland. Portree, as Skye’s capital, is an ideal base for exploring the rest of the island or a necessary stop on any day trip. Portree is the largest city for Skye’s 13,000 year-round residents, making it the main tourist center of the island. 

To reach the Isle of Skye, you can drive the five hours from the major Scottish cities of Edinburgh or Glasgow. Skye is now connected to the mainland via the convenient Skye Bridge, although there are still ferries if you prefer. The nearest convenient airport is in Inverness (2.5 hours), it’ll likely be cheaper to fly into the bigger international airports, like Edinburgh. While a car can give you freedom to explore, there’s daily bus service from the center of Portree to both Inverness and Glasgow, and local buses that traverse the island. If you don’t have a car, there are also a variety of sightseeing options that depart from Portree, by boat and by bus (or car).

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While basing yourself in Portree, take advantage of one of the town’s unique accommodation options. Try an old agrarian cabin turned inn at the Crofter’s House, the Bracken Hide luxury wilderness resort just a short walk from Portree itself, a Victorian house in the country that’s been in the same family for over 200 years at Viewfield House, or cozy bed and breakfasts in the center of town.



Colorful houses, fishing boats, pubs, whisky and Highland views in Portree

Aerial view of Portree and environs on the Isle of Skye, Scotland

Dave Pennells

By Dave Pennells

Dave Pennells, MS, has contributed his expertise as a career consultant and training specialist across various fields for over 15 years. At City University of Seattle, he offers personal career counseling and conducts workshops focused on practical job search techniques, resume creation, and interview skills. With a Master of Science in Counseling, Pennells specializes in career consulting, conducting career assessments, guiding career transitions, and providing outplacement services. Her professional experience spans multiple sectors, including banking, retail, airlines, non-profit organizations, and the aerospace industry. Additionally, since 2001, he has been actively involved with the Career Development Association of Australia.