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The Enchanting Isle of Skye
You could quite possibly find your ideal holiday destination in one of the few remaining unspoiled areas of Europe, the beautiful Isle of Skye.
Located in the Scottish Highlands just off the west coast of the Scottish Mainland, the largest island of the Inner Hebrides is renowned for its romantic history, wildlife and its unequalled natural beauty. Skye is probably much bigger than most people would imagine, rich in culture and heritage, and relly does have something for everyone as a holiday destination. Immortalised in music and verse, Skye is probably the best place in Scotland for hiking and walking, with fantastic views of the Cuillin mountains, the most challenging in Britain. As well as mountain walks the island offers a variety of walks along the coast or over the moors. Wildlife enthusiasts can spot the Golden Eagle, the Sea Eagle, the Red Deer and the Otter. Castles on Skye include Armadale Castle, which was once home to the Clan MacDonald. Skye and Lochalsh offer a good range of castles and folk museums, which are well worth a visit. Skye has a strong folk music tradition, growing in popularity in recent years, along with dance and rock music, and 2007 featured sets from Sparks and Fun Loving Criminals. Gaelic rock band Runrig started in Skye. Gaelic festivals, agricultural shows, sheepdog trials and piping competitions mean there is always something going on during the summer, and The Skye Highland Games will live in the memory after you leave the place.
Around 60 percent of the Skye residents still use Gaelic as a first language, and to this day they still speak about Flora Macdonald, who sneaked 'The Young Pretender', Bonnie Prince Charlie into Skye after his defeat at the Battle of Culloden. Portree is the main service centre on the island, with a good range of accommodation from the Backpackers hostel and Bed & Breakfasts to the comfortable 4 star Cuillin Hills hotel. Portree has flourished in recent years with newer buildings including housing and supermarkets, and there are some splendid walks to be enjoyed, along the shore in pine forests. At colbost, on the north west corner of the island, is the well known Three Chimneys restaurant, which has won numerous awards over the years, for five star accommodation, and serving excellent fresh food. The island has been linked to the mainland from Kyle of Lochalsh by the Skye Bridge, which is now toll free, since 1995. Ferries sail from Armadale on the island to Mallaig. Ferry crossings only operate in the summer months, so check the Calmac Timetable for Armadale - Mallaig. A community run ferry service is also in operation during the summer, and runs from Kylerhea to Glenelg. Details are on the Skye Ferry website. Skye forms part of the Highland Council area, and the Isle of Skye Round Table has donated considerable funds to local and national charities. If you are planning a holiday in Scotland and looking for something a little different, the Isle of Skye could possibly be your holiday of a lifetime.
Find A Hotel In Skye. Different providers, different prices, and user reviews. Save time and money, search them all here for the best deal. More Great Places To See : Holiday Cottages Search the best holiday cottages in Scotland. These cottages are usually found in quieter locations, ideal for relaxation or for outdoor actvities. Buy Train Tickets Car Hire Cheap Flights
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