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| The Isle of Skye is situated off the north west coast of Scotland, and at 640Sq miles is the UK’s second largest island (Lewis and Harris being the biggest). With a permanent population of around 11,000, Skye
has no problem providing a cosy and intimate island experience for all who visit. However, Skye’s variety
of landscapes is vast, and it is this which draws so many visitors every year. From the majestic Cuillin
mountain range, to secluded sandy bays, the island ticks many boxes for the photographer, and it’s
easy to see why it is one of the most popular UK destinations to set up a tripod. Spectacular waterfalls, lush green valleys, fern forests, extinct volcanoes, vertical sea cliffs, lighthouses, harbours, lochs..... the list is almost endless. And we haven’t even started on the wildlife which includes Golden Eagles, Sea Eagles, Whales, Dolphins, Harbour Porpoises, Deer, Otters, Seals, Basking Sharks, and of course the most photographed of all.......the Highland Cow! Everything just mentioned can be found in other parts of the UK too, but not in such a concentrated area as the Isle of Skye. Skye does have one landscape however, which is unique in the world - the Trotternish Ridge. Formed by volcanic activity and then the scene of the UK’s largest landslide (don’t worry - it was 30,000 years ago), the Trotternish Ridge is the home of iconic rock formations such as the Old Man of Storr, and the Quiraing, both of them gracing many book and magazine covers over the years. |
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Winters on the island are surprisingly mild, as being on the west coast, the island feels the full effect of the Gulf Stream. Due to Skye’s latitude, summer
provides very long daylight hours. In fact, around the end of June, it never gets truly dark, with sunset skies often lasting until well after midnight. The opposite is true during the winter, when daylight hours are short, but due to the low trajectory of the sun, great light is possible for all daylight hours. |
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