Are you looking for the best locations for landscape photography on the Isle of Skye? The Isle of Skye is a stunningly beautiful island located off the west coast of Scotland.
It is known for its rugged landscapes, stunning coastal cliffs, and unique geological formations, including the Old Man of Storr and the Cuillin Mountains.
The island is also home to a rich cultural heritage, with numerous historic castles and ancient standing stones, as well as vibrant local communities with a strong sense of tradition and identity.
See more about the Isle of Skye here
I’ve visited the island many times for landscape photography projects, and on each occasion have experience every kind of weather – all on the same day!
This constantly changing weather provides a fantastic opportunity for dramatic photographs, both from the road and on hikes. These are some of my favourite locations to capture on the Isle of Skye:
The Old Man of Storr: The Old Man of Storr is a striking pinnacle rock formation located close to Portree. This natural monument rises dramatically from the surrounding landscape and is a popular destination for hikers and tourists. The name “Old Man of Storr” comes from the Norse word “Storr,” which means “large.”
The rock formation is made of basalt and has been shaped over time by the forces of wind and rain, giving it a distinctive and rugged appearance. To get the best view, you need to hike up past the rock formation and then look back over the far reaching view. If you plan your landscape shoot for the morning, you’ll get the low, soft sunlight to add to you image. (as above)
Elgol: Elgol is a picturesque coastal village. It’s known for its stunning views of the surrounding mountains and the nearby Cuillin range. The beach provides incredible views towards the mountains and is a must for any trip to Skye.
From the village, you can also take boat trips to view the nearby sea stacks and seals, or go on guided walks to experience the unique landscapes and wildlife of the surrounding area.
The Cuillin Mountains: The Cuillin Mountains are a range of rugged and imposing peaks that dominate the island’s landscape. Made up of black basalt rock, the Cuillins offer some of the most challenging and dramatic mountain scenery in Scotland.
The light around the mountains is spectacular, with sudden bursts of sunlight mingled with the fast moving rain clouds that create the backdrop for dramatic landscape photographs. The area is also home to a unique and diverse range of flora and fauna, including rare species of bird and plant life which will make for beautiful additions to your images.
The Fairy Pools: The Fairy Pools are a series of crystal-clear pools and waterfalls located near Glenbrittle. The pools are fed by streams cascading down from the nearby Cuillin Mountains, creating a series of enchanting and picturesque swimming holes. The vibrant blue-green water and unique rock formations make the Fairy Pools a wonderful place for landscape photography, in all seasons.
I’ve see them in warm sunshine as well as in the snow. Both are amazing! A scenic hike through the surrounding countryside provides access to the pools, with several trails leading to the different pools and waterfalls. There is also parking close to the beginning of the trail.
The Quiraing: The Quiraing is a dramatic landslip formation, located near the village of Staffin, It offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscapes and is a popular destination for hikers and photographers.
The area is characterized by its towering cliffs, steep valleys, and otherworldly rock formations, making it one of the most distinctive and photogenic landscapes on the Isle of Skye.
There are several trails through the Quiraing, ranging from easy walks to more challenging routes that offer breathtaking panoramic views of the area. Any trip to Skye should include this location. I’ve stood on top of the cliffs with winds so strong that I couldn’t stand, so it’s best to dress for every weather!
Neist Point: Neist Point is a dramatic headland located on the western coast. It is one of the island’s most popular tourist destinations, offering breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean and the surrounding landscapes. The cliffs at Neist Point rise steeply from the sea, providing nesting sites for a variety of seabirds, and the lighthouse at the end of the headland is a well-known landmark that’s perfect for landscape photography. I’ve been to Neist Point at both sunrise and sunset, and both provide great opportunities for images.
Sligachan: Sligachan is a small settlement, located at the base of the Cuillin Mountains. The area is known for its stunning natural beauty, including the nearby Sligachan Bridge, which provides views of the surrounding peaks and valleys.
The settlement is a great starting point for hiking, with several trails leading into the nearby mountains and the River Sligachan, providing excellent photography opportunities.
There are many other incredible locations on the Isle of Skye, and any drive along its coastal roads will reveal plenty of photographic opportunities. Much of the success of any trip to Skye is preparation, with weather sealed camera equipment, warm, water proof clothing, decent hiking boots and a sturdy tripod to stop your camera moving around in the wind. The Isle of Skye is one of my favourite landscape photography locations in the UK, and somewhere I’ll keep returning to for many years.
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