We’ve been to Skye plenty of times over the past few years in our campervan; first in our tiny T4, and now in our much larger (and more comfortable) Mercedes Sprinter.
We’ve also been blessed to have visited Skye during Spring, Summer and Autumn. And the Isle of Skye in October is a different beast compared to the summer months.
Below is an idea of the best things to do while travelling the Isle of Skye in your campervan, either in summer, autumn or even winter!
You can also check out our most recent trip to Skye, here:
When’s best to go?
The summer months are magical on Skye. The mornings and evenings are long, providing plenty of time to explore and hike the island, and the weather, while still prone to being Scottish (i.e. can change at any time), can be sunny, bright and warm, providing some pretty exceptional sunrises and sunsets. But it also brings with it more crowds. So make sure you’re out on your walks early or late, to avoid those annoying tour buses!
In Autumn, things are obviously colder. But if you catch Skye on a rare crisp day – you can be treated to some exceptionally beautiful sunlight and sights. There are also less crowds, meaning you truly can get away from people and park-up at some exceptional spots.
For example, in 2020, we camped up at Neist Point in both the summer and autumn. In the summer, we had the company of 15 or more vans and campers, and cars were still coming and going well into the evening. But in Autumn, we had the place all to ourselves.
What should I do?
This is by no means an exhaustive list, but we’re pretty confident in knowing that we’ve done some awesome stuff while on this island. Below is a suggestion of some wild, nature filled highlights, grouped into rough categories!
Wildlife:
Take a boat trip to spot seals, dolphins and eagles: This is a brilliant early morning trip to take from Portree, where you can spot the resident sea eagles that nestle on the cliffs near to Portree. We were treated to a swooping eagle, catching a fish, and we also spotted dolphins, too.
Spot Seals and birdlife from Staffin bay: We spent a day holed up by Staffin bay viewpoint – essentially a car park by the sea wall – watching for wildlife here. Not only did we spot seals swimming in the sea, but we also spotted gannets, oyster catchers and more bird life swooping over the bay. We’ve also spoken to plenty of people who have spotted otters and dolphins from this spot too.
Hikes and adventures:
- The Trotternish loop – this can all be done in one day if you have a car, and takes in some of Skye’s most famous backdrops (detail below). If you have time, we recommend you go slower. If you’re travelling by campervan, there are plenty of places you can stop for the night, both on campsites or free sites along the way.
- Old Man of Storr: This an iconic hike to do on Skye. But if you hate crowds, try to time it smartly. Arrive early or late in the afternoon to beat the crowds, the walk was even busy on a grey, autumn day. And remember to pack waterproofs, layers and midge spray. In summer we were bitten alive and in autumn we were nearly blown off the side of a cliff by a surprise hail storm!
- The Quiraing Loop: This is without a doubt our favourite hike to do on Skye. Both times we’ve gotten up here for sunrise. And both times we’ve nearly had the place to ourselves. The views from up here are phenomenal. In autumn, watch for waterfalls from the rocky ridge up high.
- Kilt Rock: A quick walk from the car park will take you to a waterfall that falls off the side of the cliff wall. It’s by no means a highlight, but it makes a pretty picture! It’s also part of the Trotternish loop, a nice road trip that takes in the likes of Storr, Lealt Falls and Staffin Bay
- Lealt Falls: Admire these powerful waterfalls from the viewing platform, or brave an icy plunge at the bottom of these cascading waterfalls. We managed a very short dip in October, it was invigorating to say the least!
- Staffin Bay: Hunt for the dinosaur footprints from this scenic spot close to beautiful views and a wild beach. To find the dinosaur footprint – make sure you visit when the tide is out. With the tide in, it’s impossible to find.
- The Fairy Pools: A long cascade of crystal clear water, waterfalls and pools that make the perfect spot for a hike, picnic or swim! This is another one of those spots that pays to arrive early or late for, as it’s so famous. And if you hike further up the river and pools, you’re more likely to find your own private plunge pools and “water slide”, just don’t get stuck up the mountain like we did on our trip.
- Neist Point Lighthouse: Situated in a remote corner of the Isle of Skye, Neist Point lighthouse is a hundreds year old lighthouse, with hikes and wildlife all around
- Visit Portree: the colourful Port Town is a good base to fill up on food ahead of exploring the island. It also has some great cafes such as Cafe Arriba (including vegan and gluten free options)
Where should I stay?
Scotland is a hugely welcoming place for van lifers, offering plenty of places to park-up and “wild camp”. But as always, things will only stay this way if you respect the area you stay in, you don’t overstay your welcome. And you always leave no trace.
Some top spots we camped at that can be found in Britstops and on Park4night include:
- Neist Point lighthouse road
- Kilt Rock Waterfall car park
- Staffin Bay (remember to leave space for the local fisherman to access their port/dock!
Final Advice
The Isle of Skye in autumn is a pretty special place. But as is always the case with Scotland – expect fast, changeable weather, winds, as well as golden sunshine. Sometimes all in one day!
If you have any questions about Skye – don’t hesitate to get in touch! And if you’re thinking about heading off to further places in Scotland, then check-out our blogs and videos on the Outer Hebrides, here:
https://thesewildjourneys.com/2021/09/19/the-scottish-highlands-and-islands-of-the-outer-hebrides/
These Wild Journeys 