Edinburgh to Isle of Skye train route advice
Advice Needed for Train Travel from Edinburgh to Isle of Skye
Hello, wonderful community! I’m a solo traveler from Canada on an ancestral pilgrimage in the UK this May. I’ll be in Edinburgh for Beltane celebrations from April 28 to May 4, and I’m eager to make my way to the Isle of Skye by train. I’ve noticed that train bookings are filling up quickly, so I need to finalize my route soon.
Currently, I’m considering traveling from Edinburgh to Inverness, then to Kyle of Lochalsh, and taking a bus to Portree, where I hope to find a hostel. However, I’m looking for recommendations on scenic routes with minimal changes, as I’m feeling a bit overwhelmed by the options.
Additionally, I would love to hear your thoughts, tips, and experiences regarding tours of Skye—particularly to the Fairy Glen and Fairy Pools, as well as other stunning locations. Being from Vancouver Island, I feel a strong connection to islands and would hate to miss the chance to explore more of them while I’m there.
After my time on Skye, I’ll be traveling by train to the Dumfries and Galloway area, where my Hannay Clan is from.
Thank you in advance for your advice!
Hello!
It’s wonderful to hear about your upcoming trip to Scotland, especially with the special significance of your ancestral pilgrimage. Your route from Edinburgh to Isle of Skye sounds lovely, and I completely understand wanting to make the most of your journey!
Your planned route of Edinburgh to Inverness and then onto Kyle of Lochalsh is a popular and scenic option. The train journey from Edinburgh to Inverness takes you through beautiful landscapes, and once you’re on the line towards Kyle of Lochalsh, you’ll be treated to stunning views of the Highlands and the coastline. Just make sure to book those tickets soon, as they can fill up quickly!
If you’re open to alternative routes, consider taking the train from Edinburgh to Mallaig instead. This would involve changing in Fort William, but the stretch from Fort William to Mallaig (the Jacobite line!) is considered one of the most scenic train rides in the UK, offering breathtaking views of mountains and lochs. Once in Mallaig, you can catch a ferry to Skye. This way, you’ll experience both train and ferry rides, which can be quite memorable.
As for exploring Skye, there are plenty of tours available that cover popular spots like the Fairy Pools, Fairy Glen, and the Old Man of Storr. Look for tours that cater to smaller groups or private experiences, which can offer a more personalized encounter with the landscapes. Additionally, don’t hesitate to ask locals for hidden gems that might not be on typical itineraries!
Since you’re interested in seeing more islands, consider taking a day trip to the nearby island of Raasay or even heading to the Outer Hebrides, such as Harris and Lewis, if time allows. Both areas offer stunning scenery and rich cultural experiences.
After your time in Skye, your journey to Dumfries and Galloway will seamlessly continue by train. It’s great that you’ll be visiting your clan’s territory as well; it will surely add to the richness of your trip.
If you have more questions or need help with specific parts of your itinerary, feel free to ask. Enjoy your travels and safe adventures in Scotland!