Luxury shoreline self-catering on the Isle of Skye
Useful Tourism Information
The Weather
Scotland’s climate is moderate and changeable and Skye is no different. It is possible to get days of consistently sunny or wet weather on Skye at any time of year, but it is more frequently changeable and it is often the mix of sun and breaking clouds that adds drama to the landscapes with bright rainbows and moody skies.
Skye has its own micro-climates and it is common to find the weather conditions totally different on the other side of the island sometimes only 10 to 15 miles away! As with other regions of the world cloud accumulates around mountains, but with prevailing weather from the SW travelling just a few miles north or south it is often sunny.
To help with choosing clothes for your stay the following is a guide of temperatures (taken from the Met Office) during the seasons:
Spring (March, April, May) … Daffodils, bluebells and lambs. Puffins arrive April/May
Average maximum daytime temperatures 7°C (45°F) to 13 °C (55°F).
Summer (June, July, August) … Whales and dolphins arrive; Puffins around till late July
Average maximum daytime temperatures 15°C (59°F) to 17°C (63 °F). Long summer nights; never gets fully dark.
Autumn (September, October, November) … Rich autumn colours. Otters, seals, porpoises and red dear still active all year round
Average maximum daytime temperatures 8°C (46°F) to 14°C (57°F).
Winter (December, January, February) … Dramatic landscape photo-opportunities
Average maximum daytime temperatures 5°C (41°F). Although snow at or near sea level is possible, this would be rare or very short lived on Skye; however, it is usual to see snow on the mountains at this time of year and this looks stunning with clear blue skies. Good time for stargazing and experiencing the Aurora Borealis when visible. www.facebook.com/GlendaleSkyeAuroras/
Weather forecast websites
It is good to compare different sites; these ones seem to be the most reliable for Skye:
- Met Office which also has a
5 day mountain forecast. - Mountain Weather Forecast
- BBC Weather, for good animations of cloud cover and where it may be raining!
- XC Weather, good for wind speed and direction.
- Met Check, generally reliable and gives longer range forecasts.
- Also useful local amateur forecaster with
latest forecast, tips and explanations, Skye weather Facebook Page.
Transport
You will need a car to get about if you stay at Cuan Beag, but it would be possible to use public transport to travel to Moeraki and although bus services are irregular it is possible to get about by bus. Some of the Tour companies will pick up from Broadford too.
Skye has been linked to the mainland by a bridge from Kyle of Lochalsh since 1993. This makes arriving on Skye a lot less stressful trying to keep to ferry times, but travelling by ferry is certainly more romantic. This is possible from Mallaig to Armadale (pre-booking required in high season), or by the short, very picturesque and historic route from Glenelg to Kylerhea, (April – October), skyeferry.co.uk.
You can find out up to date travel information including car hire: www.isleofskye.com/skye-guide/travel-tips
Cuan Beag
Unwind within easy reach of what Skye has on offer
Cuan Beag is a brand new luxury Eco Holiday home that sits very peacefully on the seashore just 10 minutes drive from Portree, the island’s capital. The cottage fits 6 people, but it is equally suited as a romantic retreat.
Moeraki
Relax in peace within walking distance of facilities
Moeraki is a well equipped, bright and spacious holiday home in an idyllic peaceful setting by the sea and yet, within walking distance of many of the local facilities in Broadford including restaurants, shops and the local pub.