Autumn Guide: The Best Campsites on The Isle of Skye
So, you’ve decided to experience the Isle of Skye the best way possible this autumn – by campervan! You’re dreaming of epic vistas, wild freedom, and the ability to wake up to a different panorama each day. While wild camping offers unmatched solitude (and we’ve covered that in other posts!), sometimes you just want the convenience of a hot shower, reliable facilities, and the chance to plug in and recharge, or maybe after a day of exhilarating hikes, a pint and a hearty meal in a local pub are calling your name. Never fear, our guide to the best campsites is here!
Skye boasts a superb selection of campervan-friendly campsites that beautifully combine comfort with authentic island experiences. We’re talking prime locations near those iconic sights, yet also within easy reach of charming villages, cosy pubs, and delicious eateries where you can enjoy the true taste of the Hebrides.
Get ready to forget about planning stress and embrace the slow pace – here’s our guide to Skye’s best campsites for your unforgettable campervan adventure!
Let’s jump in.
Table of Contents
Planning Your Trip
We use the below booking platforms to plan our trips. We hope you find them useful too!
Practical Tips for Camping on Skye
- Book Ahead (Especially in High Season): Skye is incredibly popular, and campsites fill up quickly. Don’t leave it to chance, particularly if you want an electric hook-up.
- Be Midge-Aware: In warmer months (late spring to early autumn), midges can be a nuisance. Pack repellent, wear long sleeves, and really consider a midge net for sitting outside.
- Respect the Environment: Always follow the “Leave No Trace” principles. Take all your rubbish with you, use designated disposal points, and be considerate of fellow campers and residents.
- Weather Wise: Skye’s weather is famously unpredictable. Pack layers, waterproofs, and sturdy footwear regardless of the season.
- Fuel & Supplies: While Broadford and Portree have good supermarkets, options become very limited in more remote areas. Fill up your tank and stock up on groceries when you can.
- Enjoy the Moment: Don’t be shy! Strike up conversations with locals in pubs and eateries – they’re often a wealth of information and have the best stories!
1. Glenbrittle Campsite: Under the Cuillin’s Shadow
Location
Nestled at the foot of the magnificent Black Cuillin mountains, Glenbrittle Campsite offers arguably the most dramatic backdrop of any site on Skye. You’re surrounded by giants here, making it an ideal base for serious hikers and those who simply want to soak in the raw power of the landscape. It’s also perfectly positioned for easy access to the famous Fairy Pools – an absolute must-see!
Campervan Comforts
Glenbrittle is a well-established and popular site run by the Gatliff Hebridean Hostels Trust. It offers pitches with electric hook-up, clean toilet and shower blocks (often with surprisingly hot water!), a laundry room, and a small shop for essentials. There’s also a communal drying room – a true godsend after a day in the notoriously unpredictable Skye weather!
Local Hospitality Hotspots:
- Glenbrittle Youth Hostel: Just a stone’s throw from the campsite, this hostel has a small shop for introductory provisions and often a standard room where you can warm up and chat with fellow travellers.
- The Cuillin Coffee Co.: A fantastic little mobile coffee van often found near the Fairy Pools car park, serving up excellent brews and delicious cakes – perfect for a post-hike treat. Check their social media for current locations!
- The Old Inn, Carbost: A short drive (around 20 minutes) will take you to Carbost, home to this truly authentic and lively pub. Expect traditional live music sessions and a fantastic selection of local ales and whiskies. Their food menu is hearty and delicious, featuring fresh local produce. This is a real gem for experiencing local Skye culture!
Nearby Points of Interest
- The Fairy Pools: Iconic natural waterfalls and crystal-clear pools perfect for a refreshing (if chilly!) dip. The walk itself is stunning, with views over Loch Brittle and beyond!
- Talisker Distillery: Located in Carbost, this is Skye’s oldest working distillery, famous for its smoky single malt whisky. Tours and tastings are a must-do!
- Talisker Bay: A beautiful, often secluded pebble beach with a dramatic waterfall cascading onto the shore. Perfect for an evening stroll and taking in the sunset views.
2. Staffin Caravan & Camping Site: A Northern Gateway
Location
Heading north, Staffin offers a different kind of drama with incredible views of the Quiraing, the Staffin coastline, and the distant mainland. This campsite, ideally situated for exploring the iconic Trotternish Peninsula, is renowned for its otherworldly landscapes.
Campervan Comforts
Staffin Campsite provides electric hook-up pitches, modern toilet and shower facilities, a chemical disposal point, and a small on-site shop. It’s a friendly, family-run site that often receives praise for its welcoming atmosphere.
Local Hospitality Hotspots
- Columba 1400: This international leadership centre has a café that’s often open to the public, offering a relaxed atmosphere and stunning views. Check their opening hours in advance.
- Staffin Community Hub: A genuine heart of the local community, the Hub often has a small café or takeaway service, perfect for a quick bite or a warm drink. It’s also a great place to pick up local crafts.
- The Flodigarry Hotel & Restaurant: A slightly more upscale option, this historic hotel offers delicious meals with panoramic views. It’s a fantastic spot for a special dinner or a celebratory drink.
Nearby Points of Interest
- The Quiraing: A truly unique and spectacular landslip, offering incredible walking opportunities and breathtaking photo opportunities. Visit at sunrise or sunset for an unforgettable experience.
- The Old Man of Storr: Another iconic geological formation, offering a rewarding hike and panoramic views across the Sound of Raasay.
- Staffin Dinosaur Museum: A fascinating small museum showcasing dinosaur footprints and fossils found right on Staffin Beach – a must for anyone with an interest in prehistoric life!
- Kilt Rock & Mealt Falls: A dramatic cliff face resembling the pleats of a kilt, with a waterfall plunging directly into the sea. There’s a convenient viewing platform.
3. Kinloch Campsite, Dunvegan: West Coast Charm
Location
Situated on the western side of Skye, near the charming village of Dunvegan, Kinloch Campsite provides a peaceful base with easy access to some of Skye’s most historic attractions and stunning coastal scenery. It’s perfect for exploring the Duirinish and Waternish Peninsulas.
Campervan Comforts
Kinloch provides generous pitches, many with electric hook-ups, as well as well-maintained toilet and shower blocks. The site is renowned for its serene atmosphere, making it an ideal spot to unwind after a day of exploration.
Local Hospitality Hotspots
- The Old School Restaurant, Dunvegan: Housed in a beautifully converted schoolhouse, this popular restaurant offers a diverse menu featuring local seafood and Scottish classics. Booking is often essential, especially in high season.
- Dunvegan Hotel Bar: A traditional hotel bar offering a good selection of drinks and often a pub menu—an excellent spot for a casual evening.
- Jann’s Cakes, Dunvegan: Famous for its delicious homemade cakes, pastries, and light lunches. A perfect stop for a coffee and a treat!
Nearby Points of Interest
- Dunvegan Castle & Gardens: The oldest continuously inhabited castle in Scotland and the ancestral home of the Clan MacLeod. Explore the castle, beautiful gardens, and take a boat trip to see the seal colony.
- Neist Point Lighthouse: Located on the most westerly point of Skye, offering dramatic cliff walks and stunning sunset views. Be prepared for a walk down (and back up!) to the lighthouse itself.
- Coral Beach: A surprisingly tropical-looking beach with white “sand” actually made of crushed coral-like algae. A lovely spot for a walk and a picnic.
- Skye Skyns Tannery: Witness traditional sheepskin tanning and browse beautiful, ethically sourced sheepskin products.
4. Reraig Caravan & Camping Site, Broadford: Southern Convenience
Location
Situated just outside Broadford, Skye’s second-largest village, Reraig offers a convenient and well-equipped base for your campervan adventures. It’s an excellent choice if you’re arriving or departing via the Skye Bridge, and provides easy access to the Sleat Peninsula and points south.
Campervan Comforts
Reraig is a spacious site with a good number of electric hook-up pitches, clean and modern toilet/shower facilities, laundry, and a chemical disposal point. Its proximity to Broadford means you’re never far from essential amenities.
Local Hospitality Hotspots
- The Claymore Restaurant, Broadford: A popular choice for traditional Scottish cuisine, with a focus on fresh seafood.
- The Broadford Hotel: Offers a welcoming bar for a pint and often serves food.
- Café Sia, Broadford: A modern and popular café serving excellent coffee, breakfasts, lunches, and wood-fired pizzas.
- Co-op Supermarket, Broadford: Perfect for stocking up your campervan with groceries and supplies.
Nearby Points of Interest
- Broadford Bay: A scenic bay perfect for a gentle stroll, with opportunities for kayaking and other water sports.
- Isle of Skye Serpentarium: A fascinating centre dedicated to reptiles and amphibians, offering an educational and engaging experience.
- Torabhaig Distillery: located on the Sleat Peninsula, is Skye’s newest distillery, producing a distinctive peated single malt. Tours and tastings available.
- Armadale Castle & Gardens: Explore the romantic ruins of the ancestral home of the Clan Donald and wander through the beautiful gardens. Also home to the Museum of the Isles.
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5. Uig Bay Campsite: An Explorer’s Haven
Location
Perched on the picturesque Uig Bay, this campsite is the perfect launchpad for exploring the dramatic northern reaches of Skye, including the spectacular Waternish and Duirinish Peninsulas. It’s also the ferry terminal for services to the Outer Hebrides, making it a handy stopover if you’re island hopping.
Campervan Comforts
Uig Bay Campsite offers pitches with electric hook-up, clean and heated toilet/shower blocks, laundry facilities, and a chemical disposal point. The views across the bay are simply stunning, especially at sunset!
Local Hospitality Hotspots
- The Ferry Inn, Uig: A classic village pub offering hearty meals, local ales, and a warm, friendly atmosphere, often frequented by locals and travellers alike.
- Single Track Art Gallery & Espresso Bar, Kilmuir: Just a short drive north of Uig, this charming spot combines a contemporary art gallery with excellent coffee and delicious home baking – a lovely place to relax and soak in the creative atmosphere.
- Uig Pottery: Browse unique handcrafted pottery and often find local artists at work.
Nearby Points of Interest
- Skye Museum of Island Life, Kilmuir: Step back in time and experience what life was like for crofters on Skye in the late 19th century. A fascinating and authentic insight into island history.
- Fairy Glen, Uig: A miniature, whimsical landscape of conical hills and winding paths, said to be a gathering place for faeries – a magical spot for a gentle wander.
- Rha Waterfalls: A series of beautiful waterfalls nestled in a wooded gorge near Uig – peaceful and scenic!
Skye’s Best Campsites: You’re Welcome!
Tackling Skye by campervan this autumn, with the added comfort and convenience of these fantastic campsites, truly offers the best of both worlds.
You get the freedom to roam by day, chasing epic views and hidden gems, and the assurance of a cosy, welcoming spot to rest your head at night, often with a delicious meal and a refreshing drink just a short stroll or drive away. Hebridean hospitality is legendary, so don’t be afraid to head to the nearest distillery, pub or eatery after a solid day of exploring in your on-road abode!
Embrace the setbacks, indulge in the detours, and always seize an opportunity. That’s a true adventure in the making!
Skye’s secrets, incredible hospitality, and open road await!
Happy camping!
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.
