About the Isle of Skye
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THE FAIRY GLEN,
UIG, ISLE OF SKYE
The Isle of Skye is one of the Inner Hebrides off the west coast of Scotland. It is famous for its scenic beauty and historical associations. It was to Skye that Bonnie Prince Charlie fled after the battle of Culloden as commemorated in the song "Over the sea to Skye". Skye was the headquarters for the clans of MacLeod and MacDonald and many bloody battles were fought between these clans over the years for possession of various parts of the island, but today we all live together in peace.
THE NEEDLE, QUIRAING, ISLE OF SKYE
Skye is one of the largest of Scotland's innumerable offshore islands, being more than 60 miles in length and having a very convoluted coastline some 500 miles around. The whole island is extremely scenic but the most well-known areas are the Cuillin mountains in the south of the island and the Trotternish Peninsula in the north. Opportunities abound for boat trips, pony-trekking, canoeing and similar activities, and a day sail to the Outer Hebrides is highly recommended.
DUN SGATHAICH, TARSKAVAIG, SLEAT
Portree, with a population of about 2500, is the administrative capital of Skye and the main shopping centre on the island, but still has a village atmosphere. It is a convenient base for touring, and hosts the internationally known Skye Highland Games in August, when the island is packed to bursting point. The best times to visit are in May and June when the weather is at its most reliable and the roads are quieter. The island is also very attractive to visit in September and October for autumn colour.
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THE SKYE MUSEUM OF ISLAND LIFE
The island abounds in wildlife. It is one of the last refuges of such birds as the Golden Eagle, the Sea Eagle and the Corncrake. Otters are frequently seen all around the coastline and both the Common and Grey seals breed here. Various species of dolphins and whales can be seen from the ferry across the Minch. Red Deer are found in the hills of Skye and Roedeer in the woods.
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There are also many indoor
visitor attractions on the island including Dunvegan Castle, the Skye Museum of Island Life at Kilmuir,
the Aros Heritage Centre in Portree, the Clan Donald Centre at Armadale, the Toy
Museum at Glendale, the Geological Museum at Staffin, where sensational dinosaur
fossils have recently been found, the An Tuireann arts centre in Portree, and a
great many more.
Links to other pages about Skye
The Early Church in Skye
Internet
Guide to Skye
Welcome to Skye
Isle of Skye web site
Ferries
Buses
The Catholic Church in Skye
Prayer of Consecration
Links
The Bishop's Coat-of-arms
