Planning & Booking

Scottish Highlands & Isle of Skye Planning Guide: Ferries, Single-Track Roads & Midges

How far ahead to book Portree accommodation, CalMac Mallaig–Armadale ferries, Old Man of Storr parking, and how to beat Scottish midges.

Book Skye Lodging & CalMac Ferries 4–6 Months Ahead for Summer

The Isle of Skye has limited accommodation concentrated around Portree, Broadford, Dunvegan, and Sleat. You can drive onto Skye free 24/7 via the Skye Bridge from Kyle of Lochalsh, and return via the scenic 45-minute CalMac ferry from Armadale to Mallaig (pre-book vehicle spaces at calmac.co.uk) to connect with the Glenfinnan Viaduct and Glencoe.

Beating the Crowds & Midges

Start hikes at the Old Man of Storr, Quiraing, and Fairy Pools before 08:30 or after 16:30. Visit in May, June, or September for fewer Highland midges, and pack a bottle of Smidge repellent if travelling in July or August.