How to get to Skye
'Tracing your routes'
'Tracing your routes'
You still go 'Over the sea to Skye' but, since the introduction of the bridge, now free to cross, and the end of the Kyle-Kyleakin ferry, most visitors arrive by car or coach. The main ferry services to Skye run from Lochmaddy (North Uist) to Uig, Mallaig (mainland) to Armadale and Tarbert (Harris) to Uig. In the summer a small private car ferry runs from Glenelg (mainland) to Kylerhea.
By Coach to Skye
The main coach routes to Skye start from Glasgow and Inverness. Edinburgh has a summer only service. There are usually morning/midday/afternoon services each day, each way. A very good way to take in the scenery.
By Train to Kyle of Lochalsh
The closest you can get to Skye by train is Kyle of Lochalsh on the mainland end of the infamous bridge. The route is very scenic, some would say worth a trip in its own right. The train starts at Inverness which is easily accessible from several stations around the UK.
By Plane to Edinburgh, Glasgow and Inverness
Edinburgh and Glasgow International Airports are serviced by many airports around the World and the UK. Both cities are good places to begin and end a holiday in Scotland.
The domestic airport at Inverness, Capital of the Highlands and Skye's nearest city, is serviced by several airports around the UK. Good coach/rail links and car hire make this the perfect place to start your visit to the Highlands and Skye.
Driving to Skye
It's a long way. Driving from Glasgow to Portree for example, will take around 6 hours. From Inverness around 3 hours. This doesn't include time to stop and enjoy the stunning scenery on the way. Don't let this put you off. Once you get away from the cities the roads are spectacular, generally empty, well signposted and dotted with good places to take a break. For many visitors the relaxed driving experience is an important part of their holiday.