One of the nicest spots to stay on the Isle of Skye is in the lively and colorful town of Portree. In fact, there are a ton of eateries, stores, and tourist attractions in this town. All of the must-do activities in Portree are listed in this article.
1. Make sure to go to the viewpoint of the Colorful Houses
A beautiful row of colorful buildings borders Portree’s coastline, and the Colourful Houses Viewpoint is the finest site to see them (and take pictures of them).
You can play with the leaves around you for some intriguing photography framing while you look at the lovely residences that are situated at the base of a sizable hill from there. You can also descend the neighboring steps to get closer to the residences and the coastline.
2. Set out from Portree on an Isle of Skye Tour
The Kilt Rock, the Old Man of Storr, and the Quiraing, to name a few, are just a few of the main attractions in Skye that are conveniently accessible to Portree. Without a car, it’s challenging to travel to these locations. I strongly advise joining a tour group if you’d rather not rent one.
The Best of Isle of Skye Full-Day Tour from Portree is the most recommended excursion to take. With an experienced local guide, you’ll tour Skye’s most magnificent locations in a small group setting. Swim in the well-known Fairy Pools, sample Single Malt Scotch at Talisker Distillery, fall in love with the magnificent Dunvegan Castle, and more are all included in this itinerary.
If you don’t have a lot of time and want to see as much of Skye as you can, this is a terrific way to accomplish it.
3. The Apothecary’s Tower at the Lump should be climbed
The Lump is a hilly region near Portree’s coast. It features one of Portree’s best treks, gorgeous harbor views, and a historic watchtower. Follow a quick and simple forest route from Bayfield Rd for 5–10 minutes to get there.
When you arrive, the Apothecary’s Tower from the nineteenth century will be visible in a peaceful garden. Climb the tower for a view over Loch Portree and the surrounding hills that has a touch of the storybook about them. Alternatively, you can unwind in the garden while looking for lovely rabbits scurrying about.
4. Aboard a pony and ride through the countryside
One of the most interesting tourist attractions in Portree is The Isle of Skye Trekking and Therapy Centre, which provides three distinct pony-trekking paths. You can enjoy pony trekking while admiring the views across Loch Snizort, the landscape from Portree to Dunvegan, and other natural wonders.
Throughout the day, hourly treks are offered for an average price of £30 per person. If you want to travel during the summer’s peak travel period, attempt to reserve at least three days in advance. You must pre-book your ride.
5. Subscribe to Arainn Fhinn
There is a swimming pool in Portree, which is great news if you like to be active while traveling or just enjoy being in the water. A 5-lane, 25-meter swimming pool, a gym, and exercise programs are all available at The Fingal Centre (Arainn Fhinn).
Their schedules, business hours, and other details are available on their website. This exercise may be particularly enjoyable for families.
6. To see wildlife, go by boat
Stardust offers some of the most incredible boat trips that you can take from Portree. Numerous animals, including as puffins, seals, whales, and dolphins, can be spotted on these excursions. A spectacular vista of the Cuillin Hills and the Old Man of Storr may be seen when exploring the island of Raasay.
7. At the Aros Centre, see a show
The Aros Centre is an excellent place to go if you’re interested in local culture. This location serves as Portree’s central focus for the arts and offers everything from workshops and galleries to live music, theater, and movies. Additionally, it has a grocery shop, a bookstore, a play area for kids, and a restaurant that welcomes families.
8. Hike the Quiraing
One of Skye’s most stunning landscapes, the Trotternish landslip, contains a group of remarkable rock formations known as The Quiraing. In fact, a hike there delivers some of the island’s most picture-perfect vistas; practically around every bend, you’ll find breathtaking views.
This trip covers 6.5 kilometers (4 miles) and rises to a height of 543 m (1,781 ft). The hike, a loop walk that takes around 3–4 hours to complete, begins close to the Quiraing Car Park. If you want to thoroughly appreciate your time and take in the vistas, take even more time. You can also pitch a tent and spend the night at the peak!
9. Explore the lovely Dunvegan Castle
The magnificent Dunvegan Castle & Gardens, one of the most picturesque sites on the Isle of Skye, are located on the lovely shores of Loch Dunvegan. The castle is encircled by three gardens that are teeming with blossoming flowers and plants, as implied by its name. It’s an amazing location to take a leisurely stroll and see the beautiful scenery.
One of the oldest castles in Scotland is Dunvegan Castle. The MacLeods, the leading clan of Skye, commissioned its construction in the ninth century. After that, it became accessible to the general public in 1933 and has since become well-liked by tourists.
Finally, but certainly, not least, make sure to visit the Dunvegan Castle Viewpoint to obtain a stunning view of the castle as a whole. You can bring some binoculars to try to see seals lying on the rocks, as Loch Dunvegan is nearby.
10. Take a picture at Kilt Rock and Mealt Falls
Since these sites are some of the most well-known ones on Skye, seeing the Kilt Rock & Mealt Falls Viewpoint is undoubtedly one of the must-do activities in Portree. They are made up of an ancient, kilt-shaped 90-meter cliff and a massive waterfall that cascades down from the cliff’s summit.
This location is quite lovely and simple to get to. No walking or hiking is required to get there; you can drive right up to it. Along with the viewpoint, there is a parking lot nearby. Because of this, it might just be a quick visit, but it will be well worth it.
