Romantic Places
Never mind St Valentine’s Day – we think every day should have some love in it! Skye Lochalsh is the perfect place to spend some quality time with your loved one. Moody mountains capped with snow, misty mornings and fairy dust on the heather….we take a look at our suggestions for 8 Romantic Places to visit in Skye and Lochalsh.
1. Dunvegan Castle Gardens
Combine a visit to Dunvegan Castle with a romantic wander through the gardens. This hidden oasis is laid out with flowers, exotic plants, specimen trees and shimmering pools fed by waterfalls and streams flowing down to the sea. Meandering paths lead through the Rose Garden, Walled Garden, Water Garden and woodland walks. In February, the gardens are covered in snowdrops and towards Spring, the bluebells flower. And Breathe!
For more information about the Castle Gardens, opening times and admission charges https://www.dunvegancastle.com/gardens/
Stay at: Bird Song Bothy
A great base for exploring Glendale and Dunvegan areas, Bird Song Bothy is a well equipped snug bot hole. Situated within easy walking distance of the award winning Three Chimneys Restaurant, why not book a romantic dinner for two during your stay? Upstairs in the bothy, the bedroom has twin beds (but maybe you could push them together!)
Dunvegan Castle is 6 miles away.
2. Fairy Glen (Uig)
Number two on our list of 8 Romantic Places to visit in Skye and Lochalsh is the Fairy Glen. Some say that this dramatic other-wordly landscape was created by the fairies who still dwell there! We think that it was created by the more natural drama of an ancient volcanic landslip. Whatever you believe, there is no denying that the Fairy Glen is a magical place to explore.
TIP this popular spot gets busy during the summer months and access is via a single track road. A new car park and turning area is currently being built, but our tip would be to get up early or to arrive later in the evening (especially in the long day light hours of May-July). Leave the car in Uig and walk the 2.2km up to the glen.
Stay at: Fairy Glen Cottage
With its traditional black house exterior and thatched roof, Fairy Glen Cottage is picture perfect. Ideal for couples (and families) it has ample space for everyone. Sleeps 6. Stay here and you can walk to the Fairy Glen!
3. Dun Caan (Raasay)
The highest point on the Isle of Raasay, Dun Caan is well worth the climb. Time it right and you could have the place to yourself. Share a picnic for two on the summit. On the way you will pass Loch na Mna (the Woman’s Lake) where, according to legend, a Water Horse Each-uisge or Kelpie lives. Embrace the magic!
Stay at: Laimhrig on the Shore
Although not on Raasay itself, Laimhrig on the Shore at Luib is only a 10 minute drive to the ferry terminal at Sconser. Here you can cross to Raasay on the timetabled Caledonian MacBrayne ferry service. The cottage sleeps 4 and includes a sun lounge overlooking Loch Ainort. Relax with a glass of wine and enjoy the view across the loch to the Cuillins.
4. Camas Daraich Beach (Sleat)
This pretty sandy beach near the Point of Sleat requires some effort to reach. The walk is approx 5 miles (8 km) but this does mean that you could well find you have the place to yourselves! Definitely a plus for this romantic place! More information
TIP Bring a picnic and do keep an eye on the tide! Getting rescued by the Coast Guard is not a romantic way to end your day
Stay at: Four Winds
Four Winds holiday home offers modern facilities with amazing sea views over the Sound of Sleat. Situated in the community of Teangue, you can reach the start of the walk to Camas Daraich in approx 20 minutes by car (roughly 12.5 km). The cottage sleeps 4.
5. St Columba’s Isle (Skeabost)
Looking for a romantic place in Skye that’s perhaps a little more spiritual? Once a location of pagan significance, Eilean Chaluim Chille at the head of Loch Snizort, is considered holy ground. The historic site of the Cathedral Church of the Bishops of the Isles from 1079 to 1498, it has a spiritual atmosphere that belies its size. The remains of the cathedral, along with the ancient graves of many clan chiefs are scattered across the site. On a nice day you can sit and look out over the loch and soak in the sense of ancient history.
Stay at: The Bothy at No 7
Enjoy a bit of pampering, and stay at the luxurious Bothy at No 7 just outside Portree. This architect-designed home for two, includes a king sized bed and Finnish sauna! Achachork is approx 8.5 miles (14km) from St Columba’s Isle. After your visit to St Columba’s, why not dine at the nearby Skeabost Hotel?
6. Loch Coruisk
Take a boat trip from Elgol to this beautiful inland loch in the foot of the Black Cuillins. On the way you may well be rewarded with seals and dolphins. Loch Coruisk is definitely one of the 8 Romantic Places to visit in Skye and Lochalsh. The setting for many a marriage proposal, it also makes a great wedding venue (just saying!)
Stay at: Tigh Phoil
With the Elgol boat trips just a mile from the cottage, Tigh Phoil is a great choice for couples. A traditional cottage with rustic charm, it’s perfect for snuggling in. Log burners in the lounge and bedroom, as well as additional electric heating, means you will both be nice and cosy inside whatever the weather! A stream runs through the garden where you can enjoy the views across to the Isle of Rum.
7. Talisker Bay
For a touch of drama and unrivalled scenery, take your loved one to Talisker Bay. A short, scenic walk brings you to this secluded bay bordered by impressive cliffs and a sea stack. When the tide is out, you can wander across the grey sand and explore the rock pools. Soak up the atmosphere at this romantic place, blow away the cobwebs, go beach combing and smell the sea salt.
Stay at: Shepherd’s Cottage
This charming traditional cottage is situated on the shore at Eynort, just a 15 minute drive to the start of the short walk to Talisker Bay. Sleeping 2, the tastefully decorated master bedroom offers a Kingsize bed, and a wooden love seat under the window! Perfect!
8. Eilean Donan Castle (Dornie)
For those of you who love a bit of Scottish history and romance, why not make a trip to Dornie on the mainland and explore the iconic Eilean Donan Castle. Set on the shore, this dramatic stronghold has been the setting for many films and offers you the chance to channel your inner Braveheart.
Stay at: Glenview Cottage (Achmore)
Explore the Lochalsh peninsula with Eilean Donan Castle within easy driving distance. Glenview Cottage sleeps a maximum of 4 and makes a great holiday home base. From the doorstep, you can take a walk to enjoy sweeping views of the glen, hilltop lochs and sea views with superb sunsets at Fernaig shore. The picturesque village of Plockton, with restaurants and lovely harbour views, is only 7 miles (9km) away.
Photographs With Thanks:- Couple making heart Photo by Kristina Litvjak on Unsplash : Bird Song Bothy (living room with view across Loch Dunvegan); Fairy Glen; Fairy Glen Cottage; St Columba’s on the shores of Loch Snizort; Tigh Phoil cottage – photos all by Islands and Highlands Cottages. Talisker Bay – Kath Smith (Islands and Highlands Cottages); Eilean Donan Castle by George Hiles on Unsplash