Isle of Skye Loop

Skye can be reached by the toll-free Skye Bridge or the ferry from Mallaig. A loop links Portree, the Trotternish peninsula and Dunvegan, often on single-track roads.

Region: Highland, Scotland
Start / end: Skye Bridge, Portree, Uig, Dunvegan
Road: Partly single-track with passing places
Suggested time: Several days
Best season: Late spring to early autumn, peak season busy

What should you know before visiting Isle of Skye Loop?

No motorway tolls or vignettes expected for a car.

The Skye Bridge has been toll-free since December 2004. Alternatively a ferry runs from Mallaig to Armadale; check the timetable and vehicle lengths with the operator.
Many roads are single-track with passing places. The Highland Council asks drivers to allow extra time and show consideration to other road users.
Scotland's wild camping is described as lightweight, low-impact camping. VisitScotland points motorhomes to campsites, and the Highland Council advises booking ahead in peak season.

The drive

The A87 crosses the island from the Skye Bridge to Uig and links most major settlements. Portree is the largest town and the main service centre. In the north lies the Trotternish peninsula with the Kilt Rock cliffs, the Quiraing and the Old Man of Storr, which the Highland Council counted at about 293,000 visitors in 2024. Dunvegan with its castle follows in the west, and Sleat with the Armadale ferry in the south. Many roads have been widened, but substantial single-track sections remain.

Planning

The toll-free Skye Bridge and the Mallaig to Armadale ferry let you build a circuit through mainland and island. Check timetables, booking and vehicle limits with the ferry operator. Allow more time on single-track roads, wait politely in passing places and let oncoming traffic through. Drivers of large vehicles should plan the route in advance.

Camping

Scotland allows wild camping on most unenclosed land, described as lightweight camping on foot, by bike or by canoe. For motorhomes VisitScotland recommends campsites. The Highland Council advises booking ahead in peak season. The council supports landowners who offer land for temporary motorhome stops where this is considered safe and reasonable. Waste disposal points are being developed with communities and campsites.

FAQs

Is the Skye Bridge a toll bridge?

No. The bridge opened in 1995 and was bought by the Scottish Executive in 2004, and tolls ended on 21 December 2004. It carries the A87 over Loch Alsh to Kyleakin.

Are the roads on Skye single-track?

In part. Many roads have been widened, but substantial single-track sections remain. Use passing places, give way courteously to oncoming traffic and allow generous journey time.

Can I wild camp on Skye?

Scottish wild camping is described as lightweight, low-impact camping on most unenclosed land. VisitScotland recommends campsites for motorhomes and car campers. Book ahead, especially in peak season.