The Isle of Skye is the largest of the Inner Hebrides, with 350 miles of coastline. The dramatic landscape of majestic mountains, moorland and lochs was created by the violent volcanic activity over 1 million of years ago. The ice age formed U shaped glens and spectacular peaks. The red Cuillins are amongst the dramatic natural beauties of the isle, enjoyed by many climbers both in winter and summer. The island tells of a rich and turbulent history, which dates back to the Iron Age.
Vikings settled and dominated Skye for almost 400 years. The Clan history is also turbulent, fighting for the domain of the Skye, Clan Macdonald's, the Lords of the isle (Armadale Castle) and Clan MacLeod (Dunvegan Castle). The Norse influence is remembered today through places, their names derived from the ancient language. In the 19
th century the population of the island reached an all time high of around 23,000 but like the rest of the highlands, the people suffered from oppression and were evicted from their homes. Today only a quarter of that number remains.
Skye has a romantic past too. It was on this island that Flora MacDonald gave shelter to Bonnie Prince Charlie from the English army and helped him to escape to France. Flora MacDonald Cottage can be visited in Staffin.
Traditions are very much kept and around a third of the population speaks Gaelic. The island is an excellent choice for hillwalking and birdwatching.
