Isle of Skye, Scotland -
Virtual Tour of Central Skye

Portree, Raasay and Minginish

We do not need to put our boots on and test our head for heights in order to appreciate the Cuillin mountains. The road which carries us north from Broadford leads us up along the eastern fringe of the Red Cuillin and through the village of Sconser where we can stop off for a game of golf or simply enjoy the hospitality of Sconser Lodge.

Most tourists speed past the ferry terminal at Sconser and miss out on one of the most enchanting islands in the area. From Sconser the ferry will take us to the island of Raasay which is a special jewel in the hebridean crown. Raasay is so rich in history, geology, wildlife, and culture that the people who are lucky enough to discover it return again and again. Accommodation is available in the hotel, guest house, B&B or in Raasay House which also serves as the base for Raasay Outdoor Centre which is the main provider in the area for all types of outdoor activities.

Continuing along the road from Sconser we arrive at Sligachan where we get our first real impression of the spectacular Black Cuillin ridge which dominates the southern skyline. This is one of the main centres for climbers and hillwalkers on Skye and is well-provided with facilities for travellers of all types.

From Sligachan we have the choice going north to Portree, or west along Glen Drynoch into the area of Skye known as Minginish.

Taking the westward route we turn left at the green fields of Drynoch and find our way to Carbost which is the main village of the area, boasting a shop, post office, pub, school, doctor, and Talisker Distillery where we can be shown the whisky-making process before tasting the famous single malt. 

Minginish is a place which has to be explored at a leisurely pace lest we miss something of interest. There are a variety of craft shops and a couple of friendly village pubs which are tucked away in quiet corners, lying between glorious coastal scenery and the ever-present mountains.

From Carbost we can head to Portnalong where the local fishermen and fish-farmers keep their boats or we can go west to Talisker Bay, or south to Eynort or Glen Brittle.

Every one of these little roads offers its own delights to the traveller. Play on the sands at Fiscavaig; walk to the beach at Talisker and see what treasures the tide has left; make a pilgrimage to the ancient church at Eynort; discover the Fairy Pools in the mountain burns of Glen Brittle.

If we choose to go north from Sligachan we find ourselves approaching the village of Portree which sits on the edge of a fine natural harbour at the meeting of four main routes through the island.

This key geographical location has meant that Portree has grown into the administrative and commercial centre for the island and is now a busy modern community which can provide us with all our material needs. On the way into Portree we can call in at the Aros Heritage Centre and find out a bit about the history of Skye before heading for the centre of the village where most of the shops and services can be found.

Despite its recent growth the village has not lost its charm and is a favourite base for holidaymakers. The area around the bay is particularly attractive with walks around the Lump above the pier and along to the Black Rock on the northern shore being enjoyed by locals and visitors alike.

The main Tourist Information Centre for the island can be found here along with three banks and accommodation of every type.  The Royal Hotel and the Bosville Hotel are conveniently situated in the centre of the village while the Cuillin Hills Hotel enjoys superb views of the mountains from which it takes its name, and Viewfield House, set in its own wooded grounds, offers a genuine Victorian country house atmosphere.