Itinerary

Scotland is a fantastic destination for families, and the Isle of Skye is a gem with its stunning landscapes, rich history, and plenty of activities for all ages. Here’s a fun and family-friendly 7-day itinerary that focuses on Skye, with a few stops along the way. Let’s dive in!

## Day 1: Arrival in Edinburgh

Morning:

• Arrive in Edinburgh and settle into your accommodation. If you’re flying in, you might want to rent a car for the week to explore at your own pace.

Afternoon:

• Head to the Edinburgh Castle. The kids will love exploring the castle and learning about its history. Don’t forget to check out the Crown Jewels!

Evening:

• Stroll down the Royal Mile and grab dinner at a family-friendly restaurant. Try some traditional Scottish fare like haggis (or opt for fish and chips if the kids are a bit hesitant!).

## Day 2: Edinburgh to Skye

Morning:

• After breakfast, set off for Skye. It’s about a 5-hour drive, but the scenery is breathtaking, so plan for some stops along the way.

Afternoon:

• Stop at Eilean Donan Castle on your way. It’s one of the most photographed castles in Scotland and has a lovely visitor center.

Evening:

• Arrive in Skye and check into your accommodation. Enjoy a cozy dinner at a local pub. The Portree area has some great options!

## Day 3: Explore Portree and the Old Man of Storr

Morning:

• Start your day with a hearty breakfast, then head to the Old Man of Storr. The hike is family-friendly, and the views are absolutely worth it. Just keep an eye on the little ones!

Afternoon:

• After your hike, head back to Portree for lunch. Explore the colorful harbor and maybe grab some ice cream!

Evening:

• Visit the Portree Harbour for a lovely evening walk. If you’re lucky, you might spot some seals! Dinner in Portree is a must; try some local seafood.

## Day 4: Fairy Pools and Talisker Distillery

Morning:

• After breakfast, make your way to the Fairy Pools. The walk to the pools is magical, and the kids will love splashing around in the clear waters (bring towels for a quick dry-off!).

Afternoon:

• Head to Talisker Distillery for a family-friendly tour. While the adults enjoy the whisky tasting, there’s often a non-alcoholic option for the kids, and they can learn about the distillation process.

Evening:

• Return to Portree for dinner. Consider a family-friendly restaurant like The Chippy for some delicious fish and chips!

## Day 5: Dunvegan Castle and Neist Point

Morning:

• Visit Dunvegan Castle, the oldest continuously inhabited castle in Scotland. The gardens are beautiful, and there’s a chance to see the famous seal colony on a boat trip!

Afternoon:

• After lunch, head to Neist Point. The walk to the lighthouse is stunning, and the views are incredible. It’s a great spot for family photos!

Evening:

• Return to Portree for dinner. If you’re up for it, check out a local ceilidh (traditional Scottish dance) for some fun!

## Day 6: Trotternish Peninsula

Morning:

• Explore the Trotternish Peninsula. Visit the Quiraing, a dramatic landscape perfect for a family hike. The kids will love the unique rock formations!

Afternoon:

• Stop by Kilt Rock and Mealt Falls for some breathtaking views. There’s a lovely viewpoint where you can take some family photos.

Evening:

• Head back to Portree for dinner. Consider trying a local restaurant that serves traditional Scottish dishes.

## Day 7: Return to Edinburgh

Morning:

• After breakfast, start your journey back to Edinburgh. You can take a different route to see more of the Highlands.

Afternoon:

• Stop at Loch Ness for a quick visit. You can take a boat tour or just enjoy the views. The kids will love the legend of Nessie!

Evening:

• Arrive back in Edinburgh. Enjoy a farewell dinner at a family-friendly restaurant. Maybe try a Scottish dessert like cranachan!

Tips for Traveling with Kids:

• Always have snacks and water on hand for the road.
• Check the weather and dress in layers; it can change quickly in Scotland!
• Plan for some downtime; kids can get tired from all the exploring.

I hope this itinerary helps you create wonderful memories in Scotland! Enjoy your adventure on the Isle of Skye! 🌄🏰