Aviemore and
The Cairngorms

Inverness, Nairn
and Loch Ness

East Northern Highlands

West Northern Highlands

Isle of Skye and Lochalsh

Fort William and Lochaber

Heard the song, now see the place. Of course I speak of Skye, that magical, romantic island where Flora Macdonald took the fleeing Prince Charlie on his escape from the dreaded ' Red Coats'.
' Speed bonnie boat like a bird on the wing, over the sea to Skye ', yes, we all had to sing it at some point in our school life and the memory lingers on. Whether you're a Jacobite or a government man, the sound of that haunting music whether sung by a school class or trained choir, stirs the blood and moves the hairs on the back of ones' head.

Every country has its favourite song and legend, which can stir the emotions, and for Scotland we are no exception. The story of Flora Macdonald's bravery and devotion to her Prince and his cause is world famous and this is where it all happened. If you have never looked across to Skye from the mainland then you have missed an experience. It is almost as though you were actually there in times past, watching that small craft, with it's fleeing occupants, make its way towards the Island. The sense of history seems to overpower you as you scan the horizon. It is truly a magical moment as many would testify .

Going further back in time these lands were hotly disputed over by the Picts, Scots, Celts and Vikings and in Macbeth's time many a raid or small battle happened in the region. History records however, that, during the time of Macbeth's reign, it was one of Scotlands most peaceable periods.
The number of castles in the area must however give an indication as to the vulnerability of the region and there were many of these fortifications some of which may still be seen today.
Skye itself is a wonderful place attracting many visitors from all over the world and not just because of the romance surrounding the place but also for the variety of things to do.
Mountaineering, hillwalking, sightseeing, boating, fishing, golfing, tennis, castles and museums are just some of many activities available.

Lochalsh on the mainland is the place where the old ferry service to the Island left. A modern bridge has now replaced the ferry much to the disappointment of the romantics. In the summer months the village is a hive of industry with tourists and affords great views across the water. Take the chance to see the village for a stopover or holiday because the surrounding country is beautiful.
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Raasay just off Skye to the east is a cracker of an Island but has to be reached by ferry from Skye. Those into watersports of a wildish nature gather here as this is the place to be.

Towns and travel can be accessed through the site facility.

Comments or photos to improve this page most welcome.

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