Day 229 - Isle of Skye

Another day of writing in the cottage, so for this trip I would like to introduce you to the Isle of Skye. I have been derelict in my updates in telling you about the island in general, so here goes!

Skye is the largest of the 35 islands that make up what is known as the Inner Hebrides, an island chain off the west coast of Scotland. To the northwest lie the Outer Hebrides, which have more than 100 islands.

It stretches for 50 miles (or 60, depending on who is doing the measuring), and has been described as like a lobster claw in shape. The Cullin Hills dominate the view, and are broken into the Black Cullin and the Red Cullin.

The Black Cullin is considered the UK's most formidable range and should only be accessed by experienced hikers and climbers, as the range consists of 12 Munros (mountains over 3,000 feet) and 16 other peaks over a distance of 11 kms. Hikers face extremely rough terrain, boulder hills, steep scree slopes and knife-edge ridges. The highest point is Sgurr Alasdair at 3,254.59 feet. But, people braver (dumber?) than I attempt this all the time. Good thing the place has predominantly mild weather.

Source: VisitScotland

The Red Cullin are made up of gentler slopes carved by glaciers through the granite of which they are comprised, hence the rounded appearance of the hills and the poplularity with hill walkers. (Now these I would try, but I know I would still be huffing and puffing, not matter how gentle).

The capital of the island is Portree, with a population of about 2,300 people. Two other "larger" settlements are Broadford (about 600 people) and Dunvegan (about 200). Ways of getting to the island are limited to one bridge near the Kyle of Lochalsh or by ferry.  The number of roads are limited, and many are single track with passing places (always fun the drive).

Most people earn their living in the public service or businesses associated with tourism, although a number of smaller businesses exist. Perhaps the most famous is Talisker, distillers of malt whisky.

Down the road from our cottage is Sabhal Mòr Ostaig, a Scottish Gaelic college to which students come from around the world to learn Gaelic.

In terms of wildlife, expect to see puffins, golden eagles, mountain hares, wild cats, Atlantic salmon,  water shrews, crab, oysters and grey seals, among a multitude of other birds, fish and animals.