As part of the Inner Hebrides archipelago, the Isle of Skye sits between the Outer Hebrides and the northwest coast of mainland Scotland. 

It’s a place that commands almost mythical status for travellers across the globe, drawn to its majestic landscapes, misty glens and peerless walking trails.

We spent nearly seven weeks there during October and November when most (though not all) summer tourists had long returned their rental cars and campervans. And when the notoriously fickle Skye weather continued to play its greatest hits daily.

Over the coming weeks, we’ll write about what there is to see and do. About the best walking trails and driving routes. And we’ll hopefully put into words and pictures just how beautiful the scenery really is.

But for now, and to whet your appetite, here are ten of our favourite Isle of Skye viewpoints.

The Old Man Of Storr

Probably Skye’s most-photographed spectacle, The Old Man of Storr is a weather-worn 50-metre-high pillar of rock standing guard over Loch Leathan from its lofty perch on the spectacular Trotternish Ridge.

From the roadside car park, there’s a relatively short, though steep trail to a rocky ledge beyond the Old Man, from where this photograph was taken.

The Quiraing

Further along Trotternish Ridge, The Quiraing is home to another collection of bizarre rock formations encircling a grassy plateau known as The Table. Legend has it that local herdsmen would use it to hide their livestock from invaders.

This photo is taken from an easily accessible viewpoint just 200 metres from the roadside car park.

Loch Bracadale

Along the route from our housesit in Colbost to the Cuillin Hills, the A863 twists around the western coastline, providing views that never cease to amaze.

We took this photo one frosty morning just after we crossed the Loch bridge from Bracadale.

Loch Leathan

Yes, it’s that Old Man again. This time the viewpoint is from the A855 from Portree and looks across Loch Leathan, complete with its tiny, picturesque island.

The weather in this shot is so typical of Skye – wind, rain, mist and sunshine in chaotic harmony.

Gesto Bay

Further along the A583 from Bracadale, the viewpoint looking across Gesto Bay toward the Cuillen Hills is one of our favourites. Maybe because it reminds us so much of Patagonia.

Or maybe it’s how the low, late-autumn sun creates such magical light patterns on the nearby hillsides, contrasting with the blue of the loch and the blackness of The Cuillen in the background.

Loch Cill Chriosd

In the south of the island, the wonderful B8083 from Broadford to Elgol passes through some gorgeous scenery. None more so than at Loch Cill Chriosd with its carpet of reeds.

No wonder the locals have nicknamed it “the Hairy Loch”.

Neist Point

As Skye’s most westerly location, Neist Point is another of Skye’s most popular natural attractions. During the summer months, tourists descend in their thousands in the hope of glimpsing the iconic lighthouse bathed in a Hebridean sunset.

Our first visit was accompanied by thick fog. But we had long enough on the island to return when the weather was more sensible.

Probably the best view is this one from the cliffs of Waterstein Head, which can be reached on foot from a small car park a mile from Neist Point.

Loch Harport

If there’s a better view in Britain from a pub’s beer garden we’ve yet to find it.

We took this shot of Loch Harport from The Old Inn in Carbost – which just happens to be a 3-minute walk from the Talisker Distillery.

Sligachan Bridge

Positioned adjacent to the Cuillen Hills, Sligachan is one of Skye’s foremost hiking hubs. With the craggy peaks and swirling mist of the Black Cuillen to the right and the gentler Red Cuillen to the left, Glen Sligachan pierces into the heart of Britain’s most beautiful mountain range.

And, at its head, the Sligachan Old Bridge is an Instagram-friendly centrepiece.

Loch Slapin

And, finally, to Loch Slapin. Another beautiful sea loch, its mirroring qualities come into their own during calm weather.

This view is from the Elgol road, just over the loch from Torrin.

What did you think? Have you been to any of these Isle Of Skye viewpoints? Or maybe you’re planning on visiting soon? Either way, we’d love to hear from you so please add your comments below.