The Young and the Old – 2 Days on Skye

The oldest working distillery on the Isle of Skye, at Talisker you will experience the beautiful landscape and the intense and powerful flavours of Talisker, a whisky as wild, raw and yet refined as the island itself.

Nestled amongst the Red and Black Cuillins, with the sparkling waters of Loch Sligachan to its front, the hotel has served mountaineers, walkers and lovers of the wild Highland scenery since 1830. Not only a great spot for climbers, the Hotel is located at an important crossroads in the centre of the Island, offering a great opportunity to maximise sightseeing on Skye. Relax in front of the open fire and enjoy a rare malt in Mackenzies Bar, or sit back in Collie’s Lounge and admire the unparalleled views of the surrounding scenery from the curved picture window. Meals prepared using the finest locally sourced produce can be enjoyed in the Harta Restaurant or an informal meal can be had in the adjoining Seumas’ Bar. Should the hotel’s history be of interest, there is a small climbing museum with guest information dating back to the 1800’s.

Free to visit at any time, the Fairy Pools are located at Glenbrittle on the Isle of Skye. The Fairy Pools are beautiful rock pools of translucent mountain spring water fed by a series of waterfalls from the Cuillin Mountains. Many tributaries of the River Brittle run down from the Cuillin into the glen including a stream with waterfalls known as the Fairy Pools, a popular place for walkers. Visitors can embark on the stunning 2.4km walk from the car park to the Fairy Pools via the gravel path bordered with grass, heather, peat and rocks up towards the largest waterfall, or walk further up the path and explore some of the smaller pools which lie ahead. The water of the Fairy Pools is crystal-clear, perfect for any adventurous swimmers brave enough to enter the icy waters. It is advisable to bring a wetsuit for this activity as these beautiful rock pools can be bracing.