Isle of Skye - Magical and Mystical

Europe Northern Europe

Where the sky is ringed by a beautiful coastline and dominated by the Cuillin Mountains

There’s something magical about the Isle of Skye that goes beyond words - it’s more of a feeling. And those who have experienced this island off the west coast of the Scottish Highlands usually recall it fondly.

Stretching about 50 miles from end to end, and with a population of about8000, Skye is ringed by a beautiful coastline and dominated by the Cuillin Mountains. The red hills of the east are gently rounded and ideal for long easy hikes. The jagged black hills of the west rise about 1000 metres and provide plenty of challenge for experienced climbers.

The main attraction is the mystical beauty of the island. Considered part of the Inner Hebrides, Skye is arguably the most scenically spectacular of all the Western British Islands. Castle ruins, waterfalls plunging into ocean, mist-covered, green craggy cliffs - it seems that every turn in the road might turn up a new scene of wonder. Visitors usually have the opportunity to experience these sights in both fine weather and romantic stormy weather, as many days on Skye seem to undergo all four seasons. Storms also provide a perfect excuse to sample a “wee dram” at the local pub.

Of course, the Scottish folk have many tales to contribute to the mystical aura of the island. A big part of traditional Scottish folklore is a belief in faeries or the “little people”.

The Faerie Glen, or the Faeries’ Meeting Place, is located at the north end of the island near Uig. The surreal tranquility of this glen is enough to make even the most cynical consider the existence of the little people. The actual area of the meeting place is small, but its overall effect complete with looming branches, circle formation, grassy knolls and its tiny bluff - is impressive.

Also included in faerie folklore is Dunvegan Castle. Legend has it that centuries ago a member of the McLeod clan married a faerie woman. She disappeared one day but left behind her dress to be flown as a flag in times of distress. However, the cloth could only be flown three times before its magical powers were extinguished. So far, the Faerie Flag has been flown twice - the last time in the late 18th century. Both times the clan won its battle.

Tourism is a mainstay of the island’s economy and the main roads can get quite crowded in the high season. You can escape from the hordes and find some of Skye’s most attractive features on the secondary roads, but be sure to have a good map. Because many such unique areas as the Faerie Glen are not advertised on maps, you may need to find someone in the know to show you around.

I took Ted’s Tour, available through the Backpacker’s Guesthouse in Kyleakin. For twenty pounds, Ted will take you on a full day excursion around the island in his Land Rover. Ted has a wealth of folklore knowledge, as well as a love and respect for the island.

Hiking and biking are also inviting options while visiting Skye. Bike rentals are available. However, don’t underestimate how easy it is to get lost in the mountains. Also, be prepared for every sort of weather condition as things can change dramatically in minutes. Although the summer months are the most comfortable weatherwise, they’re also the busiest.

To reach the island one can catch a ferry from Malaig or travel the new bridge from Kyle of Lockhalsh to Kyleakin. Accommodation includes hostels, plenty of bed and breakfasts and the small hotels of Portree, the commercial and administrative center of the island.

If you go: Free information about the Isle of Skye or any other U.K. destination is available from the British Tourist Authority, 111 Avenue Rd., Suite 450, Toronto, Ontario, M5R 3J8, Tel: 416-961-8124, Fax: 4l6-961-2175. BTA information is available on the net at http://www.bta.org.uk. There is a lot of very detailed information about Skye with links to accommodation and attractions at http://www.skye.co.uk.

Author: Danielle Lukovich