Walks and Wildlife

Many visitors to Skye and Lochalsh come simply for the walks and wildlife, and here in Tarskavaig we are at the heart of some of the very best scenery in Scotland, and close by to some of the most amazing wildlife. The Cuillin Mountains, across Loch Eishort from Braeside are considered to be the most challenging range of mountains in Britain, but also offer some less energetic walks up some of the lower peaks. If you are not so keen on reaching the dizzy heights of 3000' or more then Sleat and Skye have some wonderful walks, across wild moorland, along rocky shores, or marked trails through the Clan Donald Skye gardens. For those who come to see our magnificent wildlife then there are organised trips  of all kinds, on the land and on the sea. 

As a suggestion we have shown below some links to websites that are packed full of information for both walks and wildlife, which we hope will be of use, and if you do need any further information or ideas then please get in touch.

Walk Highlands  the definitive site for walking and climbing in the Highlands

Armadale Castle and Gardens Nature Trails some great walks around the Armadale Estate

Leitir Fura a great walk in the Foresty Commission land near to Kinloch Lodge Hotel

Gentle Strolls across Skye   The Skye Guide's suggestions for strolls in Skye

Visit Scotland's Walks    a selection of walks in Skye suggested by Visit Scotland

Walks in Lochalsh  an internet guide to walks in Lochalsh

Skye Birds, the best guide to birdlife in Skye and Lochalsh

Hebridean Whale and Dolphin Trust, conserving wildlife on the west coast

Whale and Dolphin Conservation Trust, UK wide charity for whales and dolphins

Wild Scotland, a website listing many of the wildlife operators on the west coast

We are fortunate to have some great wildlife watching operators in Skye and Lochalsh, here are some of the best

AquaXplore, from Elgol, fast rib trips out to Rum, Canna and Eigg, and Loch Coruisk

Misty Isle, boat trips from Elgol to Loch Coruisk, at the heart of the Cuillins

Calums Seal Trips, from Plockton Calum has been running seal trips for 30 years

MV Brigadoon, daily boat trips from Portree Harbour to see the resident sea-eagles

Staffin Bay Cruises, wildlife trips from the village of Staffin in the north of Skye

and if you prefer to see wildlife from the land then the two Estates in south Skye can organise walks across the hills with your camera, perhaps spotting eagles, deer, otters and much much more

Armadale Castle and Gardens, activities on the Clan Donald Lands Trust Estate

Hotel Eilean Iarmain, estate activities at Fearann Eilean Iarmain

Remember keep your eyes in the sky, on the land and in the water and who knows what you will see. Enjoy!