Isle of Skye Motorhome Guide
Motorhome Adventures on the Isle of Skye
The Ultimate Guide for Atlas Hire Drive Adventurers
The Isle of Skye is one of Scotland’s most iconic and scenic destinations — a landscape of dramatic mountains, ancient castles, waterfalls, sea cliffs, and colourful villages. Exploring the island in an Atlas Hire Drive motorhome gives you the freedom to travel at your own pace, wake up to breathtaking views, and enjoy all the comforts of home on the road.
Whether you’re planning a long weekend or a week‑long tour, here’s everything you need to know — from driving tips and where to stay, to top sights and ideal travel seasons.
Why Explore Skye in an Atlas Hire Drive Motorhome?
Choosing Atlas Hire Drive motorhome hire in Scotland means benefiting from:
- Modern, high‑spec vehicles with automatic options
- Pet‑friendly motorhomes
- Easy pick‑up from Glasgow and Edinburgh
- Ideal access to the Scottish Highlands
When Is the Best Time to Visit Skye?
Skye is stunning all year round, but for fewer crowds and to avoid the famous Scottish midge, these months can offer a quieter experience:-
- April-June
- September–October
How Long Should You Spend on Skye?
You can drive Skye in 2–3 days, but 4–5 days allows you to explore properly, enjoy local food, visit attractions, and climb the island’s famous Cuillin mountain range.
Driving Tips for Motorhome Travellers on Skye: What to Expect
- Many roads are single‑track with passing places
- Driving times are longer than they appear on maps
- Expect potholes and… sheep!
- Parking at major attractions can be limited, especially mid‑day
A relaxed pace makes for a much more enjoyable experience.
Top Attractions Not to Miss
Here are the highlights that define a Skye motorhome adventure:
- Old Man of Storr
Iconic rock pinnacles visible from miles away — a must‑do hike with breathtaking views.
- The Quiraing
A dramatic landscape shaped by ancient landslips. You might recognise this scenery featured in films and TV productions.
- Fairy Pools
Crystal‑clear waterfalls set beneath the Cuillin mountains. A top photography opportunity.
- Dunvegan Castle
Home of Clan MacLeod for 800 years and set atop a beautiful loch.
- Neist Point Lighthouse
One of Britain’s best sunset spots, perched on Skye’s western cliffs.
- Portree
The island’s colourful harbour town — cafés, shops, restaurants, and a hub for boat tours.
Motorhome Overnight Stops & Campsites on Skye
Skye offers a mix of fully serviced campsites, designated motorhome aires, and scenic paid park‑ups.
✔ Designated Aire
Lisigarry Court Car Park – Portree
- Small overnight charge from an onsite ticket machine (£)
- Public toilets nearby
- Chemical waste point available (£)
- Tight spaces — campervans only
This is an overnight stopover only — camping chairs, BBQs etc are not allowed.
✔ Campsites
Here are some top-rated sites perfect for Atlas Hire Drive customers:
- Portree Campsite (Torvaig)
- 40 hardstanding motorhome pitches
- Electric hook‑ups
- Stunning views across to the Cuillins
- Skye Camping & Caravanning Club Site (Edinbane)
- Superb facilities
- Beautiful views over Loch Greshornish
- Glenbrittle Campsite
- At the foot of the Cuillin mountains
- Near the Fairy Pools
- Kinloch Campsite (Dunvegan)
- Lochside location
- Close to Dunvegan Castle
Wild Camping: Know the Rules
Wild camping in motorhomes is restricted on Skye — many locations display “No Overnight Camping” signs. Stick to designated aires or campsites and always:
- Avoid blocking passing places
- Leave zero trace
- Follow the Scottish Outdoor Access Code
Suggested 3–5 Day Motorhome Itinerary
Here’s a customer‑friendly plan inspired by expert-curated itineraries:
Day 1 – Skye Bridge → Broadford → Sligachan
- Scenic drive over the bridge
- Explore Broadford Bay
- Overnight at Sligachan for Cuillin views
Day 2 – Portree & Old Man of Storr
- Wander colourful Portree harbour
- Hike the Old Man of Storr
- Stay at Portree Campsite or Lisigarry Aire
Day 3 – The Quiraing & Staffin
- Drive the Trotternish Ridge
- Explore the Jurassic landscape of Staffin
- Overnight at Staffin Campsite
Day 4 – Dunvegan Castle & Neist Point
- Visit Castle, gardens & seal colony
- Sunset at Neist Point
- Stay at Kinloch Campsite
Day 5 – Fairy Pools & Glenbrittle
- Walk the Fairy Pools
- Stay at Gllenbrittle Campsite