Skye

The Isle of Skye is the largest of the Inner Hebrides, and its jagged Cuillin mountains, rising straight from sea level, give it a wilder look than much of mainland Scotland. Landmarks such as the Old Man of Storr and the Quiraing draw walkers for good reason, while Portree’s harbourside houses make the obvious base for exploring further out. Weather here changes quickly and often, which locals treat as part of the island’s character rather than a drawback, and it rewards a few unhurried days rather than a single loop.