Isle Of Skye City Guide

About Isle Of Skye – History and Culture

The Isle of Skye's history is etched into its rugged landscape. From the Mesolithic era, the island was inhabited by hunter-gatherers, later by Picts and early Celts. During the Norse occupation from the 9th to 13th centuries, Skye became a hub of Gaelic-Norse culture. The clans of MacLeod and MacDonald dominated the island, building fortresses like Dunvegan Castle. The Jacobite risings of the 18th century saw Skye's clans support Bonnie Prince Charlie, leading to the famous escape of Flora MacDonald.

After the Highland Clearances, many residents emigrated, but Skye's Gaelic traditions persisted. Today, the island celebrates its heritage through music, storytelling, and language. The Skye Festival and the Portree Highland Games keep culture vibrant. The island also has a strong artistic community, with galleries and craft shops dotting the landscape.

Modern Skye balances tourism with traditional crofting and fishing. The island's identity is deeply tied to its natural beauty, with a spirit of independence and resilience. Visitors encounter a warm welcome and a deep sense of place, where ancient ruins and modern life coexist under the ever-changing Skye skies.

• Dunvegan Castle – seat of the MacLeod chief for over 800 years.
• Armadale Castle – ruins and gardens of the MacDonald clan.
• Clan Donald Visitor Centre – museum of clan history.
• Skye Museum of Island Life – a preserved crofting township at Kilmuir.
• Flora MacDonald's grave and monument at Kilmuir.
• Ancient brochs and duns scattered across the island.
• The Old Man of Storr – iconic rock formation with mythological associations.
• Fingal's Rock and local legends of giants and fairies.

Did You Know? – Facts about Isle Of Skye

Isle of Skye is a land of superlatives and surprises. It is the largest island in the Inner Hebrides at 1,656 square kilometres, yet it has only about 10,000 residents. Skye is also one of the wettest places in the British Isles, with some areas receiving over 3,000 millimetres of rain annually. Despite the rain, it is a top photography destination for its moody landscapes.

The island boasts the highest population of golden eagles in the UK and is also home to the rare white-tailed sea eagle. Skye's geological diversity spans from the red Cuillin granite to the basalt columns of the Trotternish peninsula. The Quiraing, a landslip formation, is one of the most dramatic landscapes in Europe.

• Skye has its own gin and beer distilleries, and a growing food scene.
• The Skye Bridge toll was controversial; after persistent protests, it was removed in 2004.
• Many films and TV shows have been shot on Skye, including scenes from 'Prometheus' and 'Macbeth'.
• The island has no major airports; entry is by road bridge or ferry.
• Skye has the only dinosaur footprints discovered in the Scottish islands.
• The Cuillin Ridge is a 12 km long mountain ridge, requiring technical climbing.
• Skye's population is among the oldest in Scotland, attracting retirees and artists.
• The Talisker distillery produces a heavily peated whisky, a classic of the region.
• Skye has its own rugby team, the Skye Camanachd shinty club, and enjoys traditional sports.
• Gaelic is an official language; about 30% of residents speak it.
• The Fairy Glen near Uig is a surreal landscape of conical hills and cairns.
• Skye's coastline features sea arches, such as the Mealilt sea arch.
• Sheep outnumber humans on Skye by roughly 10 to 1.
• The Black Cuillin mountains are so named because they appear dark in certain lights.
• Skye has a 'Boat of Life' service providing healthcare access to remote communities.

Geography and Climate of Isle Of Skye

The Isle of Skye is located off the west coast of mainland Scotland, separated from the mainland by the Sound of Sleat and Kyle Rhea. The island is approximately 80 km long from north to south and 50 km wide, with a heavily indented coastline featuring numerous peninsulas and sea lochs. The main towns are Portree (capital), Broadford, and Kyleakin.

Skye's landscape is dominated by two main mountain ranges: the Red Cuillin (from reddish granite) and the Black Cuillin (darker gabbro). The Trotternish peninsula in the north is known for its volcanic rock formations, including the Old Man of Storr and the Quiraing. The island experiences a maritime climate, with mild temperatures year-round but heavy rainfall, especially in the west. Snow can fall on high peaks in winter, but sea levels rarely freeze.

• Climate: Cool summers (average 13°C) and mild winters (average 5°C).
• Rainfall: Varies from 1,500 mm in east to over 3,000 mm in mountainous west.
• Major geological features: Cuillin Ridge, Trotternish Ridge, Blà Bheinn, Broadford Bay.
• The island lies within the North West Highlands Geopark.
• Sea lochs: Loch Snizort, Loch Bracadale, Loch Ewe, Loch Slapin.
• Skye's shores include sandy beaches, raised beaches, and sea caves.
• The island has a strong tidal range; the Atlantic Ocean influences the western coast.
• Due to its latitude, summer days are very long, with twilight lasting until midnight; winter days are short with only 6 hours of daylight.

Things to Do in Isle Of Skye

With its dramatic landscapes and rich heritage, Skye offers endless opportunities for exploration and leisure. From hiking the Cuillins to relaxing in cosy pubs, the island caters to all tastes. Outdoor enthusiasts will find world-class walking, climbing, and wildlife watching, while culture lovers can delve into castle ruins and Gaelic music sessions.

Food & Dining

Skye's culinary scene has boomed in recent years, emphasizing fresh seafood and local produce. Portree alone has several excellent restaurants, from Michelin-starred Loch Bay Restaurant in Stein to the charming Café Arriba. Sea buckthorn, venison, and Skye–reared beef feature prominently. Many eateries focus on seasonal menus and foraged ingredients.

Traditional fare includes Cullen skink (smoked haddock soup), haggis, and cranachan (raspberry dessert). Oysters, lobster, and langoustines are daily catches. The Isle of Skye Brewing Company and Talisker Distillery are must–visits for drinks enthusiasts. Food festivals like the Skye Food and Drink Festival celebrate the island's bounty.

• Loch Bay Restaurant – Michelin–starred seafood in Stein.
• Three Chimneys – renowned fine dining in Dunvegan.
• Café Arriba – popular for coffee and light meals in Portree.
• Scorrybreac Restaurant – contemporary Scottish cuisine.
• The Old Inn, Carbost – pub with hearty food and Talisker tasting.
• Skye Pie Cafe – artisan pies in Broadford.
• Oysters at the Oyster Shed, near Carbost.
• Skye Brewing Company – ales and beers available at Copperface.
• Talisker Distillery – whisky tours and tastings.
• Prairie Skye – artisan chocolate and desserts.

Festivals & Events

Skye's events calendar is lively, with a focus on Gaelic culture and music. The Portree Highland Games, held each summer, feature caber tossing, piping, and Highland dancing. The Skye Festival (Fèis an Eilein) is a week–long celebration of traditional music and arts, with workshops and ceilidhs. The Skye Half Marathon and other running events attract participants amid stunning scenery.

Literary events include the Skye Book Festival, and there are several food festivals. Winter sees smaller community events, like the Skye Christmas Light Switch in Portree. The island also hosts storytelling evenings in local halls, keeping the oral tradition alive. The Talisker Distillery runs special tasting events throughout the year.

• Portal Highland Games – typically in July at Portree.
• Skye Festival (Fèis an Eilein) – various venues across island in June/July.
• Skye Food and Drink Festival – spring event in Broadford.
• Skye Half Marathon – scenic race in September.
• Skye Book Festival – autumn talks and workshops.
• Torridon and Skye Walking Festival – guided walks in May.
• Ceilidh in various hotels and community centres.
• Talisker Distillery Experience – year–round tours and tastings.
• Skye and Lochalsh Youth Music Festival – showcases young talent.
• Christmas and Hogmanay celebrations in Portree and villages.

Cultural Attractions

Skye's cultural attractions offer insight into island life through centuries. Dunvegan Castle is the star, with its Fairy Flag treasure, formal gardens, and boating trips to see seals. Armadale Castle on the Sleat peninsula hosts the Museum of the Isles, detailing clan history. The Skye Museum of Island Life in Kilmuir is a restored crofting township with thatched houses and agricultural tools.

Contemporary art flourishes at the Skye Art and Design Gallery in Portree and at various studios. The Aros Centre in Portree showcases Gaelic language and heritage through interactive exhibits. Music session can be found at pubs like the Galley Inn in Sconser. The island also has a number of ancient burial cairns, stone circles, and shielings.

• Dunvegan Castle – historic fortress and gardens.
• Armadale Castle and Museum of the Isles.
• Skye Museum of Island Life – Kilmuir.
• Aros Centre – Gaelic culture and cinema in Portree.
• Skye Art and Design Gallery – local crafts.
• Gairloch Heritage Museum (nearby on mainland).
• The Old Man of Storr and other folklore sites.
• Fingal's Rock – local legend.
• MacLeod's Maidens – sea stacks with mythological tales.
• Castle Moil in Kyleakin – ruin of a 15th–century castle.

Outdoor Activities

Outdoor adventures on Skye are second to none. The Cuillin mountains provide severe but rewarding scrambles for experienced climbers. The easier walks, such as the Quiraing circuit, the Old Man of Storr path, and the Fairy Pools, offer incredible scenery for all levels. The Trotternish ridge walk is a classic day–hike. Kayaking, sailing, and boat trips around the coast give views of cliffs and wildlife.

Cycling is popular on the island's quiet roads; mountain biking on estate tracks is possible. Fishing (sea and salmon) is available. Sea–fish such as bass and mackerel are common. Wildlife users include golden eagles, sea eagles, otters, red deer, and grey seals. Dolphin, porpoise, and even basking sharks can be spotted off the coast. In winter, stargazing is excellent due to low light pollution.

• Hiking: Cuillin Ridge, Quiraing, Old Man of Storr, Fairy Pools.
• Climbing: Black Cuillin technical routes.
• Boat trips: seal watching, sea eagle tours from Portree, Dunvegan.
• Kayaking: hire from Portree or Broadford.
• Cycling: on–road and off–road routes.
• Fishing: sea fishing and loch fishing (permit required).
• Wildlife watching: eagles at Harta Corrie, otters along coast.
• Horse riding: from local stables.
• Photography: landscapes, star trails.
• Golf: 9–hole course at Skeabost.
• Beaches: Talisker Bay, Coral Beach, Staffin Beach for sand and fossils.

Economy and Key Industries

The economy of the Isle of Skye is dominated by tourism, which accounts for a large share of local GDP and employment. The island attracts over 650,000 visitors annually, drawn by its natural beauty and whisky. This influx supports hotels, B&Bs, restaurants, tour operators, and retail. The peak season from May to September sees a giant economic boost but also strains infrastructure.

Traditional industries include crofting (small-scale farming), fishing (especially shellfish and whitefish), and forestry. Whisky production at Talisker is a major asset, with exports worldwide. The renewable energy sector is growing, with wind farms and hydro projects on the mainland and some local schemes. There is also a small creative sector: artists, craftspeople, and writers who choose Skye for its lifestyle.

Public sector employment (council, health, education) is significant, as is construction. The island's economy is limited by its remote location and seasonal tourism patterns. Many businesses close in winter. There is growing interest in sustainable tourism and diversification into digital economies, with some remote workers relocating to Skye. The local authority, Highland Council, supports business development through grants and initiatives.

• Tourism: main economic driver; attractions, accommodation, tours.
• Whisky: Talisker Distillery, part of Diageo.
• Crofting: small-scale livestock and sheep farming.
• Fishing: langoustines, scallops, crustaceans.
• Forestry: conifer and native woodland management.
• Renewable energy: wind and hydro projects.
• Public services: NHS Highland, Council, schools.
• Retail: local shops, Portree supermarkets.
• Creative arts: galleries, craft studios.
• Construction: housing and tourism infrastructure.
• Real estate: holiday home market.
• Transport: ferry services, Skye Bridge management.

Where to Live in Isle Of Skye

Residential life on Skye is spread across small towns and scattered crofting communities. Portree, the largest settlement, offers the most services: shops, schools, a hospital, and a lively harbour. It is the administrative and social heart. Broadford is the second–largest, useful for access to the south and mainland. Sleat, the 'garden of Skye', has a milder climate and more greenery.

Other villages include Dunvegan (near the castle), Uig (ferry to Outer Hebrides), and Elgol (stunning sea views). Torrin, Struan, and Carbost are quieter spots. Many residents live in isolated crofts, embracing a self–sufficient lifestyle. The island has a mix of owner–occupied homes, rental properties, and holiday homes. Property prices have been rising due to demand from second–home buyers and retirees. Local communities are close–knit, and Gaelic language is a valued part of social life.

Moving to Skye requires planning: services like broadband can be patchy, and shops are limited. Employment is mostly in tourism, healthcare, or remote work. The lifestyle appeals to nature lovers and those seeking solitude. The island has an active community spirit, with many village halls and community–run events. Public transport is limited, so owning a car is essential. Despite challenges, many find the quality of life unmatched.

• Portree – best amenities, schools, hospital, harbour.
• Broadford – second–largest, near Skye Bridge.
• Sleat – lush scenery, good for commuting to mainland? (ferry to Mallaig).
• Dunvegan – historic, near castle and beaches.
• Uig – ferry terminal, small community.
• Elgol – remote, spectacular views (Fairy Pools access).
• Carbost – village near Talisker Distillery.
• Stein – small coastal village, gastronomic hub.
• Kyleakin – near bridge, has ruins of Castle Moil.
• Staffin – on northern Trotternish, scenic walks.
• Torrin – on the coast near Broadford.
• Bracadale – central Skye, scenic.

Formalities and Visas in Isle Of Skye

As part of the United Kingdom, the Isle of Skye follows UK immigration regulations. Visitors from many countries (Australia, Canada, UK, Japan, EU, etc.) can enter the UK without a visa for up to 6 months as tourists. Non–visa nationals should confirm they have a visa waiver. Work and study require appropriate visas. Since Brexit, EU citizens need visas for stays over 6 months or to work (via EU Settlement Scheme or work visa).

For moving to Skye, non–UK nationals must apply for a visa category that matches their purpose: Skilled Worker, Global Talent, Family, etc. The UK uses a points–based system. The closest visa application center for Skye residents is in Glasgow or Inverness. Upon arrival, registration with the police may be required for some nationalities. For EU citizens living in UK before 2021, they must have applied to the EU Settlement Scheme.

For tourists, ensure your passport is valid for the duration of stay. There are no additional border controls within the Common Travel Area (UK, Ireland, Channel Islands, Isle of Man). If flying into Inverness or Glasgow, standard airport border control is in place. For US and Canadian citizens, the UK does not require an electronic travel authorization yet (ETA planned for 2025). Check gov.uk for latest updates.

• Visa–free travel (6 months): US, Canada, Australia, NZ, Japan, EU, many others.
• Work visas: Skilled Worker visa (job offer needed), Global Talent, Youth Mobility (for under 35 from certain countries).
• Study visas: Student visa for courses longer than 6 months.
• Family visas: for partners, spouses, children of UK residents.
• EU Settlement Scheme: eligible if you lived in UK by end of 2020.
• Police registration: some nationalities (e.g., from certain Asian countries) must register within 7 days.
• No visa needed for Republic of Ireland passport holders due to CTA.
• Visa applications are made online; biometrics at a visa center.
• Processing times: 3 weeks for straightforward applications.
• UKVI immigration health surcharge applies for long-term visas (access to NHS).
• Temporary work – seasonal worker visa might be possible for hospitality (limited).
• Digital nomads: currently no specific visa; use tourist visa or seek work visa.
• Indefinite leave to remain after 5 years of work visa (usually).

Working in Isle Of Skye

The job market on Skye is small and often seasonal. Tourism–related jobs are common: hotel and restaurant staff, guides, retail positions. Hospitality roles may be filled by local workers or seasonal (sometimes from abroad via youth mobility or seasonal worker schemes). The health and social care sector has steady demand: nurses, care assistants, and hospital staff. Education employs teachers, classroom assistants, and childcare workers.

The island also has jobs in construction, fisheries, and distilling. Talisker Distillery employs a local workforce including tour guides, bottlers, and maintenance. Crofting is mostly self–employment. Many residents work remotely as freelancers or for mainland companies. The Highland Council offers administrative positions. Entrepreneurship is common; many start B&Bs, cafes, or craft businesses.

Finding a job may require flexibility. Networking is important. The local Jobcentre in Portree (DWP) helps with vacancies. Skye has a low unemployment rate but also low wages compared to national average. The cost of living is moderate, but housing costs can be high due to limited supply. For professionals in fields like engineering or IT, remote work for mainland firms is the best option. The island offers a good work–life balance and a supportive community.

• Major sector: hospitality and tourism.
• Healthcare: NHS Highland – Portree Hospital, GP surgeries.
• Education: main school in Portree, (Portree High School), primary schools in villages.
• Retail: Co-op supermarkets, local shops.
• Distillery: Talisker (Diageo).
• Crofting and fishing self-employment.
• Construction and trades.
• Local government: Highland Council offices in Portree.
• Remote work: freelance writers, designers, tech professionals.
• Seasonal work: ski resort at Glenshee? No – but mainland winter tourism.
• Minimum wage: UK rates apply (approx £11.44 per hour in 2024).
• Typical employer: small businesses with fewer than 10 employees.
• Job postings on Indeed, Highland Council website, local Facebook groups.
• Immigration restrictions: see visas section.

Studying in Isle Of Skye

Educational opportunities on the island are centered on primary and secondary schooling. Portree High School serves the entire island, offering secondary education to about 500 pupils. The school has good exam results and a strong outdoor education focus. Primary schools are in Portree, Broadford, Dunvegan, Uig, and other villages. Gaelic medium education is available in some schools.

For higher education, Skye is home to the University of the Highlands and Islands (UHI) – Sabhal Mòr Ostaig college in Sleat. Sabhal Mòr Ostaig is the world's only Gaelic–medium higher education institution. It offers degree courses in Gaelic language, culture, music, and business, with a focus on community development. The college also provides short courses and summer schools. Other UHI campuses are on the mainland, but Skye residents can study online via UHI's virtual campus.

Vocational training is provided by local colleges and apprenticeship programs. There are also adult learning classes in art, crafts, and IT. Many students leave Skye for university in mainland cities (Glasgow, Edinburgh, Inverness). The island has a strong community–learning ethos, with public libraries and community centers offering classes. School students also benefit from the stunning natural environment for geography and environmental science studies.

• Portree High School – comprehensive secondary.
• Primary schools: Portree, Broadford, Dunvegan, Uig, Staffin, Torrin, Elgol, etc.
• Sabhal Mòr Ostaig (UHI) – Gaelic college in Sleat.
• UHI Inverness and other campuses for distance learning.
• Early years – nurseries and childminders.
• Gaelic medium education units in Portree and Broadford.
• Adult education: Skye & Lochalsh area learning.
• Music tuition through Fèis an Eilein.
• Outdoor education – Duke of Edinburgh, John Muir Award.
• School catchment: pupils travel from across island by bus.
• Student visa requirements for international college students.
• School holidays correspond to Scottish academic calendar.
• Free school meals for eligible families.
• Support for additional support needs via highland council.

Finance and Banks in Isle Of Skye

Banking services on Skye are limited but adequate. The main high street banks (Lloyds, Bank of Scotland, Royal Bank of Scotland) have branches in Portree, but opening hours may be reduced. There are ATMs in Portree, Broadford, and Dunvegan. Many locals use online banking and mobile apps for most transactions. Credit unions are available, e.g., Skye and Lochalsh Credit Union.

For everyday banking, opening an account as a new resident requires proof of address (utility bill, employer letter) and passport. Non–UK residents may need extra documents. International money transfers are easy via services like Wise, Revolut, or traditional bank wire. Taxes: residents pay UK income tax (PAYE) and National Insurance. Council tax funds local services and varies by property band. VAT is 20% on most goods and services.

• Major banks: Lloyds, Bank of Scotland, RBS – Portree.
• ATMs at convenience stores and Co-op in Portree.
• Online banks: Monzo, Starling, Revolut widely used.
• Credit union: Skye & Lochalsh – offers savings and loans.
• Opening account: two forms of ID, proof of address.
• Tax system: personal allowance £12,570; after that 20% to £50,270, etc.
• Council tax bands: A–H, typical payment £1500–£3000 per year.
• VAT: 20% included in prices.
• Currency: Pound Sterling (£).
• Mortgages available from high street lenders for property purchase.
• Financial advice available through local accountants.

Health Care in Isle Of Skye

Healthcare on Skye is provided by NHS Highland. The main hospital is Portree Hospital (RIVER), which has a minor injuries unit and inpatient beds for GP care. For emergencies, the nearest major trauma centre is in Inverness (about 2 hours drive). Ambulance service is provided by Scottish Ambulance Service. GP practices are located in Portree, Broadford, Dunvegan, and Kyleakin (Lochalsh). Dental care is available but limited; NHS dentists have waiting lists. Many residents travel to Inverness for hospital appointments or specialist care.

Primary care is generally accessible, but rurality means longer travel times for some. Community hospitals provide rehabilitation and palliative care. Mental health services are available through the Island's community mental health team. Minor ailments can be treated at local pharmacies. The island has a strong community health support network, including care at home. Private healthcare options are limited on Skye; most private cover is used for elective surgery in Inverness or Glasgow.

• Portree Hospital: minor injuries, GP–led inpatient care.
• GP practices: Portree Medical Practice, Broadford Medical Practice, etc.
• Dental: Portree Dental Practice, but NHS availability limited.
• Pharmacies: Portree, Broadford, Dunvegan.
• Community nursing: district nurses visit housebound.
• Mental health: community mental health team (CMHT).
• Out–of–hours care: NHS24 phone service; if necessary, travel to Raigmore Hospital Inverness.
• Optician: Portree (specsavers home visit service).
• Care home: nursing homes in Portree and Broadford.
• Health visitors and school nurses.
• Free prescriptions for all Scottish residents.
• Travel to Raigmore: ambulance or own transport; air ambulance used in extremes.

Accommodation in Isle Of Skye

Finding accommodation on Skye can be challenging due to high demand from tourism and holiday home purchases. Rental properties are scarce and often expensive (for Skye wages). The housing market is tight: typical options are private rental, social housing (via Highland Council housing list), and shared ownership. Holiday homes and Airbnbs dominate many areas, reducing long–term rental supply. The average house price in Portree is around £250,000, higher in exclusive spots.

Newcomers to Skye often need to rent first while looking to buy. Local estate agents include Remax and independent agents. It is advisable to network and check local Facebook groups for leads. There are community initiatives to build affordable housing. Buying a home usually requires a mortgage offer; banks consider location and value. Many houses are traditional stone cottages, some modern builds. Energy efficiency is variable; oil and electric heating common.

• Rental: limited supply, high demand. Expected rent for 2–bed flat in Portree: £700–£1000 pcm.
• Buying: typical 3–bed house £250,000–£350,000.
• Social housing: apply via Highland Council HomeFinder.
• Holiday let properties often converted from residential.
• Short–term temporary lets available for workers.

Planning Your Move to Isle Of Skye

Moving to Skye requires careful planning. Start by visiting in different seasons to understand the weather. Arrange accommodation well in advance; try to secure a rental or purchase before moving. Sort visas if non–UK. Transfer healthcare records to a local GP. Register with a dentist. Arrange shipping of belongings (often via removals from Inverness). Set up utilities: electricity (SSEN), water (Scottish Water– public supply, check if property uses private well), heating oil or gas.

Notify relevant authorities (Council Tax, Electoral Roll, DVLA for driving licence change). Car is essential; check vehicle condition for rural roads. Internet can be slow in remote areas; Starlink is a good option. Many services like shopping, veterinary, and banking are limited. Build a network by joining community groups. Consider job or remote work arrangements. Prepare for isolation and scenic beauty. The move can be rewarding for those seeking a simpler, nature–filled life.

• Visit before moving to assess lifestyle.
• Secure accommodation – long–term rental or purchase.
• Visa application (if not UK/Irish citizen).
• Register with GP – provide NHS number if from UK.
• Transfer medical records with NHS.
• Set up utilities: electricity, water, broadband.
• Change address on driving licence (DVLA).
• Register to vote – Highland Council.
• Arrange removals – consider distance and cost (over 20% are from southern UK).
• Pet travel – check UK pet entry rules (microchip, rabies vaccination, animal health certificate).
• Bank account – open before arrival.
• Learn about council tax bands and apply for single person discount (if applicable).
• Check school catchment if children.
• Explore leisure – join clubs (walking, shinty, etc.).
• Prepare for minimal public transport – buy a car.

Leisure in Isle Of Skye

Leisure on Skye is heavily influenced by the outdoors, but there are also indoor options. Portree has a small cinema (Aros), museum, and several pubs and restaurants with live music. The Galley Inn in Sconser has regular folk sessions. Nightlife is quiet; most entertainment is daytime activities. Shopping includes local craft shops, art galleries, and a small selection of clothing and gift stores. The Skye Serpentarium in Broadford is a unique attraction.

For a night out, the Isles Inn in Portree is popular. Broadford's restaurants and pubs are social hubs. The island has a community–run swimming pool in Portree, a golf course at Skeabost, and a sports centre football and shinty. Fishing lo