The Best 3 Day Itineraries to The Isle of Skye: The Best Hidden Gems
So, you’ve only got a couple of days on the Isle of Skye in your campervan. Maybe you’ve tacked your detour onto an epic NC500 road trip or only have a small window before your ferry to the Outer Hebrides – or perhaps you just want to pop over on a free weekend! Well, whatever the reason, forget the crowded car parks and overflowing tourist traps – after all, this is Skye, the land of mist and legend, and it’s absolutely bursting with hidden gems!
A true jewel in Scotland’s Inner Hebrides, Skye is a magnet for adventurers. While the Fairy Pools and Old Man of Storr rightfully earn their fame, the true magic of Skye lies just beyond the well-trodden paths. A campervan offers the ultimate freedom to unlock these secrets, transforming your trip from a mere holiday into an epic exploration.
We love an underrated adventure, and finding new facets of this stunning island, whether by the seaside or on a mountainside, is a particular joy for us after so many years of visiting. We’ve compiled a few of our favourite 3 day itinerary for those of you wrestling with your timetable, focusing on alternative areas around Skye that may surprise, thrill and shock you!
It’s time to escape the comfort zone!
Let’s get started.
Table of Contents
Planning Your Trip
We use the below booking platforms to plan our trips. We hope you find them useful too!
Skye’s Hidden Gems: Why use a Campervan?
A campervan isn’t just a mode of transport; it’s your mobile basecamp, your cosy haven, and your passport to unparalleled flexibility.
- Unrestricted Exploration: No rigid hotel bookings mean you can chase the sunshine, linger in a captivating spot, or spontaneously divert down an intriguing single-track road.
- Embrace the Wild: Park up in designated wild camping spots (always respect local guidelines and leave no trace!) and wake up to views that five-star hotels can only dream of.
- Self-Sufficiency: With your own kitchen, bed, and often a toilet, you’re free from the reliance on facilities, allowing you to venture further afield!
- Year-Round Appeal: While Skye is breathtaking in summer, a campervan truly shines in the quieter seasons. Imagine crisp autumn days with golden light, or dramatic winter landscapes where you’re one of the few souls exploring. Your warm, dry haven awaits after a blustery hike, and the lower number of tourists means a more authentic and intimate experience. Plus, many campsites offer heated facilities, ensuring comfort even when the temperatures drop.
If you are looking for a campervan or motorhome to rent then check out our own fleet at Scotland Escape, Scotland’s best service for campervan rentals!
Unveiling Hidden Gems: Your Isle of Skye Itinerary
This isn’t a prescriptive route, but a collection of suggestions to inspire your own unique Skye adventure. Remember, the beauty of a campervan trip is the freedom to adapt!
Day 1: The Elgol Excursion to Loch Coruisk
Begin your adventure by heading south to the charming village of Elgol. The journey itself is a delight, winding through dramatic landscapes. Elgol is more than just a pretty fishing village; it’s the gateway to one of Skye’s most profound experiences.
From Elgol, embark on a boat trip to Loch Coruisk. As your boat glides across the water, the sheer scale of the Black Cuillin mountains becomes apparent. Loch Coruisk, a freshwater loch nestled within a majestic amphitheatre of towering peaks, is a place of raw, untamed beauty.
Step ashore and you’ll immediately feel the ancient power of this place. Hike a short distance to appreciate the stillness, the dramatic rock formations, and the overwhelming sense of solitude. As you enjoy the beautiful views, keep an eye out for seals basking on the rocks!
After your Coruisk adventure, return to your on-road abode and find a peaceful wild camping spot near Elgol (adhering to local guidelines) or travel to a nearby campsite. The next morning, take your time to explore Elgol’s coastline, perhaps even trying to spot some local wildlife.
Day 3: The Tranquillity of Raasay
Just a short ferry ride from Sconser on Skye lies the captivating Isle of Raasay. Often overlooked by those rushing to the main island’s attractions, Raasay offers a serene escape and a different pace of life.
Park your campervan at Sconser and walk onto the Raasay ferry – it’s a short, scenic crossing. Once on Raasay, you can explore on foot, by bicycle (rentals are available), or, if you prefer, bring your campervan over for a truly immersive experience (please check ferry space and costs in advance!)
Raasay boasts stunning scenery, from the iconic flat-topped Dùn Caan (its highest point, offering panoramic views of Skye and the mainland) to its hidden beaches and ancient woodlands. Visit Raasay House for a taste of local hospitality, or simply wander the quiet roads and soak in the peace. The island’s distillery is also worth a visit, offering tours and tastings of their exquisite whisky.
Find a tranquil spot for the night, perhaps overlooking the Sound of Raasay, and enjoy the profound quiet.
Day 3: Conquering the Cuillin
Now it’s time to really get off the beaten path.
The Black Cuillin mountains are the crowning glory of Skye, a challenging yet enriching range for experienced hikers. While many flock to the accessible Fairy Pools, some lesser-known approaches and peaks offer a more solitary experience.
One such challenge is Sgùrr a’ Ghreadaidh.
This is not a hike for the faint of heart or the unprepared, as its Gaelic title literally translates to “Peak of Torment”. It’s a serious mountain, requiring good navigation skills, appropriate gear, and a decent level of fitness. Access is often from Glen Brittle, and the ascent offers increasingly dramatic views of the surrounding Cuillin hills. The reward for your effort is unparalleled vistas and a profound sense of achievement – but remember, always check weather conditions, inform someone of your route, and consider hiring a local guide if you’re unsure!
For those seeking a less intense, but equally rewarding, mountain experience, consider exploring the foothills of the Cuillin or tackling one of the easier Grahams or Corbetts. Whatever your chosen trail, remember it’s all about beating the crowds and indulging in adventure!
After a day of hiking, the comfort of your campervan will be a welcome sight. Head to a campsite in Glen Brittle or a designated wild camping spot to rest and rejuvenate, and settle down for the night! The “torment” is over!
The Isle of Skye: More Hidden Gems
- Talisker Bay: A stunning, often deserted beach with a waterfall tumbling directly onto the shore – perfect for a beautiful evening stroll!
- Waternish Peninsula: Escape the bustle and explore this quieter peninsula. Visit Stein for a charming pub and seafood restaurant, or take a drive along the scenic coastal trail!
- The Quiraing at Sunrise/Sunset: While popular, visiting at these times allows you to experience its otherworldly beauty with fewer people, especially if you position your campervan nearby.
- Neist Point Lighthouse: Head here in the off-season for dramatic cliff walks and stunning views without the crowds.
- Claigan Coral Beach: even on a rainy day, this stunning shoreline is worth a wander. We think Skye has some of the best beaches in Scotland!
Practical Tips for Your Campervan Adventure
- Book Campsites in Advance (High Season): While wild camping is an option, designated campsites offer facilities and peace of mind.
- Respect the Environment: Follow the “Leave No Trace” principles. Take all your rubbish with you, use the designated toilet facilities where possible, and be mindful of the local community.
- Navigation: While popular routes are well-signed, a good map (OS Explorer 411 and 412 are essential) and a reliable GPS are invaluable for exploring hidden gems.
- Weather Preparedness: Skye’s weather is famously unpredictable. Pack layers, waterproofs, and sturdy footwear, regardless of the season.
- Fuel & Supplies: Fill up your tank and stock up on groceries in larger towns like Portree or Broadford, as options are limited in more remote areas.
- Single Track Roads: Be patient and courteous. Use passing places correctly.
- Midges: In warmer months, these tiny biting insects can be a nuisance. Pack repellent and consider a midge net.
In Need of a Trusty Steed?
Skye’s Hidden Gems: Happy Hunting!
Skye by campervan is an adventure waiting to unfold. It’s about the freedom to explore, the joy of discovery, and the intimate connection with a landscape that will forever capture your heart.
Whether you’re here for a fortnight or for 48 hours, we hope these alternative trips pack a punch. But remember, there’s a reason these offshoots lie off the tourist trails, so pack for all weather, book ferries in advance, and take all safety precautions. Expect (and respect!) the unexpected.
So what are you waiting for? The secrets of Skye aren’t going to uncover themselves!
Safe travels!
Useful Links
- Isle of Skye – for local info!
- CalMac Ferries – book well in advance!
- Met Office – check the weather!
- Traffic Scotland – for route changes and updates.
- WalkHighlands – the best hiking trails and tips.
- Highlands2Hammocks (That’s us!) – for our online shop, other blogs, and brand-new campervan rental service.
