With its rugged landscape, stunning lakes and charming villages, the Isle of Skye is a dream destination for many. Whether you're planning a relaxing getaway or an adventure-filled vacation, finding the right accommodation is crucial.
Since we moved to the Isle of Skye I've had countless questions about where to find the best accommodation. The thing is, what’s best for one person isn’t right for another, so instead of making a list of accommodation, I’ve put together some of the best tips for you to keep in mind when looking for where to stay on Skye.
These will help you search and find the best accommodation for your trip to Skye!
1. Plan and book early
The Isle of Skye is a popular destination, especially during the peak summer months. Although it is a large island, it has a small population and therefore limited accommodation. The size of the island also means that if you travel far away from the island, it can take a long time to get to some of the most popular attractions.
People can start booking up to a year in advance or as soon as the venue opens. I recommend you start planning at least 6-9 months in advance.
Of course, that doesn’t mean you can’t find options later!
If you're looking for accommodation closer to your travel dates but aren't having any luck, try some of the Facebook groups for accommodation. These include Isle of Skye Rooms, Skye Rooms Hoteland Skye Accommodation – Advertise by Owner. These often have late cancellations, or last minute availability, and contact the owner directly.
we do have our Isle of Skye Travel Tips Group, but direct accommodation requests should be directed to these. We'd be happy to help you with all other planning!
2. consider location
The Isle of Skye has a diverse range of landscapes and attractions spread across the island. As mentioned before, the Isle of Skye isn't actually that small, so you may find yourself driving an hour or so from your accommodation. That's fine if you group attractions together and visit many in one day rather than going back and forth, but you may want to consider staying closer to some of the areas you want to spend more time visiting to reduce travel time.
Here are a few key areas to consider:
- portrait: The largest town and central hub on the island. It is best suited for those who travel without a vehicle so that they can enjoy tour and bus services. Restaurants, restaurants and shops are within easy walking distance.
- Broadford: The second largest city on the Isle of Skye. It's an ideal base for exploring the south of the island, with a range of accommodation options and beautiful natural surroundings, and is also within easy reach of many other areas.
There are some other areas that offer more amenities, such as Dunvegan and Carboster, but many others are also more remote and don't necessarily have amenities within walking distance.
This is not a bad thing! See below for more information on facilities…
3. Choose the right accommodation type
Skye offers a range of accommodation to suit different preferences and budgets:
- Restaurants and hotels: For those looking for comfort and convenience, there are on-site dining facilities.
- Bed and Breakfast: Experience Scottish hospitality and enjoy a homemade breakfast, often with a local twist.
- Self Catering Cottage/House: These are perfect for families or groups who like a home away from home experience and the freedom to cook.
- dormitory: An affordable option for solo travelers or those who want to meet other adventurers.
- Camping and Glamping: These are ideal for nature lovers who want to immerse themselves in the beauty of the island. Options range from basic campsites to pods. Read more about Isle of Skye campsite is here.
If you plan to eat out frequently, you might want to consider choosing a hotel that's convenient, or if you want to relax in your accommodation in the evening, you might choose a self-catering room with a view.
4. View reviews and ratings
The best place to look for reviews is on the larger sites, where many different people have posted their opinions.
Before booking, read reviews on platforms like TripAdvisor, Booking.com and Airbnb. Check out recent reviews to get the most accurate idea of a property's current status. Please be aware of comments about cleanliness, hospitality, and accuracy of the property description.
5. Consider amenities
As we mentioned above, location is very important because of the different amenities. Some people prefer more remote accommodation where they feel like they're escaping reality, while others want something within walking distance.
For example, if you want to walk to a bar or restaurant, be sure to check availability when looking for accommodation.
The best way to check this information is to look at the listing itself and find the accommodation yourself on Google Maps. This way you can get a better idea of its location and check driving and walking distances via the route planner.
In addition to location amenities, consider what is important to you about the accommodation itself.
Do you need free Wi-Fi, parking, or pet-friendly accommodation? Are you looking for a place with stunning views, a cozy fireplace, or a hot tub? Make a list of your must-haves and use the filters on the booking site to narrow down your choices.
6. Check cancellation policy
It’s always wise to know your accommodation’s cancellation policy, just in case. This doesn't mean it needs to be 100% flexible, but do the best you can with your situation. This way, you can change your plan without paying hefty fees.
7. Explore local listings
In addition to well-known booking platforms, check out local travel websites and smaller independent property listings. Sometimes you can find hidden gems that aren't listed on the major booking sites.
This is especially true for Skye, where some owners will not advertise on these platforms but purely use local ads or the Facebook group mentioned in the first tip above.
8. Pay attention to seasonal changes
Accommodation prices can vary significantly during high and low seasons. High season on Skye usually runs from the end of April to around the end of September, but it can be longer.
Some accommodation providers only rent rooms during this time and are closed during the winter. If you have your heart set on a place, make sure it’s open, available, and book early!
If you have flexibility in your travel dates, consider going during the off-season (spring and fall), when prices are likely to be lower and there will be fewer tourists.
9. Find a unique accommodation experience
Consider staying at a unique hotel to add a special touch to your time on the island. There are traditional farmhouses, eco-friendly places, and some stunning views you won’t see anywhere else.
10. Contact the landlord directly
If you have specific questions or special requests, please feel free to contact the owner or manager directly. They are best suited to provide you with answers about accommodation and the local area.
Booking accommodation on the Isle of Skye requires some planning, but with these tips you can find the perfect place to stay for an unforgettable stay. Whether you're drawn to the island's stunning scenery, rich history or vibrant culture, the right accommodation will make your trip that much more enjoyable!
Sonya x
