The Isle of Skye

The Isle of Skye, An t-Eilean Sgitheanach or Eilean a’ Cheò as it is often referred to, is the largest island in the Inner Hebrides. Skye is steeped in culture and its turbulent history is still in evidence today with crumbling ruins of once majestic buildings.

The Vikings had a major impact on Skye as can be seen by the prolific use of Old Norse in place names around the island. The magnificent Cuillin ridge dominates the skyline with some fantastic rock formations and pinnacles such as the the Old Man of Storr, Kilt Rock and the extraordinary Quiraing.

Skye’s outstanding geographical features means that the island is home to a diverse range of wildlife including porpoises, dolphins and minke whales white-tailed sea eagle otters, golden eagles, red deer and Atlantic salmon.

However, Skye also has a rich musical and cultural history. The Gaelic language is also alive and well in this region. Many school children are taught through the medium of Gaelic and it is considered the working language of many who make their home on the island. Scotland’s only Gaelic college, Sabhal Mòr Ostaig is located at the south end of the island and is one of the major employers on the island.