Is Skye Closed for Winter?

We received a very nice review on our cottage-booking website this week from a couple who had just got home from a stay at Aird View. They had had a good holiday, but commented on a number of problems they had encountered with end-of-season businesses. It made me wonder - how do we let potential visitors know that Skye is still here in winter, but not all the tourist facilities are as operating as they might be in the summer?

So, for a start, I'll say it here...

The scenery is here all year. In winter, the waterfalls are bigger and better. The roads are quieter (In fact, some days, seeing another moving vehicle can be a novelty...). On a clear night, the sky is just amazing - you really do have to see it to believe it. It rains even more in winter than in summer. There are no midges in winter.

But... most of the paid-for tourist attractions close for the winter. Those that say they stay open all year might close if the weather is bad, or the owner gets bored and decides to go home early. Don't make a long journey to see somewhere without checking beforehand that what you want to see will be open and fully operational. Some of the eating places close for winter too. Those that stay open are unlikely to be taking orders after about 8.30pm - there's no point keeping a kitchen going and a waitress sitting-about for just one or two late-eaters.

So... should you visit Skye in winter? That depends a lot on what you are coming here for.

Eating out? Castles? Museums? Galleries?  Boat trips? Shopping? Visitor attractions? .... Probably no (though some of the above are available all year).

Or... Peace and quiet? A restful and restorative break?  Walking? Wildlife? Fresh clean air? An escape from the hustle and bustle?... then definitely YES. Do come. Enjoy life as it used to be, Just be sure to pack some food supplies, waterproofs, a couple of woolly jumpers, a good book or two and a torch, and you'll have a wonderful time.

Maybe see you soon???