The Isle of Skye
The Isle of Skye in the Inner Hebrides of Scotland
The Isle of Skye Golf Club
The Isle of Skye is situated just off the West Coast of Mainland Scotland. It is the largest, and most well known, of a group of islands known as the Inner Hebrides.
Skye was named after the Norse word for cloud (skuy) and island (Ey), and in the Gaelic it is known as Eilean a' Cheò ("Island of Mist" or "Misty Isle"). While many assume that this is in reference to the unpredictable weather that often results in mist I believe the Norse word is more suitable. As you can see from the photo above the sky adds something to the spectacular scenery and outstanding natural beauty that is difficult to put into words. The sunsets in the spring and summer months are astounding and continue for the rest of the year. Even when the island is deep in mist the Isle of Skye takes on another beauty vastly different, enigmatic and wonderfully calming but deadly if you have wandered into the wilderness unprepared!
A visit to Skye would not be complete without a visit to at least one of the castles of Skye. Most of the castles were once owned by the Clan MacDonald, these include; Armadale Castle, Dunscaith Castle, Duntulm Castle & Knock Castle. Caisteal Maol was once owned by the Clan MacKinnon and Dunvegan Castle is the current home of the Clan MacLeod.
It has been estimated that only half of the population of the Isle of Skye is indigenous. Sadly this is evident in the number of holiday homes but Skye remains the most important centre for Gaelic Culture and language outside the, not so, nearby Outer Hebrides/Western Isles. Roughly a third of the population are fluent Gaelic speakers and road signs are now often in Gaelic and there has been much investment in culture over the ;ast decade or so.
Portree is the main town of Skye and is one of the most beautiful fishing ports you are ever likely to see. The harbour is decorated with fine yachts and pleasure craft as well as the many fishing boats and around the harbour the buildings are painted in different pastel shades giving a multicoloured facade. Read more...
