Overview
Portree is the obvious base for exploring the Isle of Skye, serving as the island's transport hub with bus connections radiating across the region. The village has a picturesque harbour surrounded by colourful houses, a handful of good restaurants, a local gin distillery, and a handful of cultural venues.
Day Trips · Festivals · Trekking
Before you go
Accommodation
Over 50 B&Bs in Portree routinely sell out in summer—book well ahead. Budget: Portree Campsite from £16 (tent), Youth Hostel bunks £30. Mid-range B&Bs £140-200 double.
Connectivity
5G from EE, 4G from O2/Vodafone, basic 3G from Three as of June 2024. WiFi widely available in cafes and accommodations.
Food
Eat areas cluster around The Quay and Somerled Square. Café Arriba for Mediterranean/vegetarian, The Lower Deck for seafood (get there early). Budget fish and chips shops, pricier fine dining at Scorrybreac.
Transport
Citylink buses 914/915 connect Glasgow to Portree (8hr, 2-3x daily); Bus 917 from Inverness (3.5hr, 2x daily). Six taxi firms offer island tours. Bikes on the Brae rents bikes Tu-Sa.
Weather
Changeable Highland weather—carry layers and waterproofs year-round. Summer has longest daylight for hiking. The Storr can be cloud-covered; allow flexibility in plans.