Tips on Isle of Skye Warnings or Dangers – Stay Safe!

Isle of Sky Warnings or Dangers

While the Isle of Skye is one of the most breathtaking nature spots in the world, there are still things you should be aware of before you venture there. Here are some tips on the Isle of Skye warnings and dangers that you should know in order to stay safe during your visit.

Roads

Skye has a remarkably good road system considering its weather and how remote it is. All the main roads are double roads where you can drive at reasonable speeds, and 40 mph seems to be the maximum speed on many. However, away from the main roads most other roads are single-track roads with scattered places to pass. The passing places are generally close together but occasionally there’s some distance between them, and with some you cannot see over the brow of a hill as you ascend it.

The worst road of these roads may be the long road to Elgol, which is a 15 mile long road with some steep drops to the left as you near the place. Coming out of Elgol the road is very steep and you should take great care while driving it.

Bugs

Make sure you get decent repellent and that means some with a good percentage of DEET in it. If you are camping make sure you have good mesh on your tent. Bugs called ‘midges’ are common here.

Weather

Skye derives from the Norwegian word for cloud, ‘skyen.’ Gaelic speakers talk of the ‘Island of Mist, or Eilean a’ Cheo, and that is very apropos for Skye. You will most likely get only rain and mist, unless you’re lucky. If you come to climb or hike make sure to bring full weather gear, and a an accurate topographical map to guide you when the extreme weather affects visibility. If you are hiking in the rain be aware of the level of streams. There are streams and many walks become an exercise in ecology. Hike from Sligachan up the Glen Sligachan, a valley that separates the Red Cuillin to the east from the Black Cuillin to the west.

Editor’s note: The information contained on this page was compiled using real traveler reviews about Isle of Skye.