Isle of Skye
Portree
About
Portree
The capital of the Isle of Skye, Portree lies around 74 miles from Inverness. It is a picturesque and well-known holiday spot, surrounded by a natural harbour with a pier created by Thomas Telford. The town provides activities including boat excursions, pony-trekking, and swimming, and the port is still active with fishing boats and pleasure crafts. There are hotels, bed and breakfasts, hostels and a nearby campsite. Portree is also Skye’s cultural centre, with the Aros Centre hosting films, plays and concerts. It’s the ideal base for exploring the island, particularly the breathtaking Trotternish Ridge, which is home to striking rock formations including the Quiraing, Kilt Rock and the Old Man of Storr. The range of shops, restaurants and the local charm add to its appeal. At Hopscotch Travel, we have a number multi-day tours , which incorporate Portree, including our 5 day Skye & Highland private day and 3 Day Isle of Skye private tour .
Things to see & do
FAQs
Portree is the most photographed town on Skye, thanks to its row of painted houses above the harbour. Staffin and Uig are lovely too, each in their own way.
Portree makes the best base, with the widest choice of places to stay, eat and shop, and a central position for reaching the island's main sights.
It's known for its colourful harbour, a line of painted houses above a working fishing quay, and as the capital of Skye. It was here that Bonnie Prince Charlie parted from Flora MacDonald after the 1745 Jacobite Rising.
As one of Skye's busiest towns, prices run higher, especially in July and August. There are options across the range though, and the harbour fish and chip van makes an excellent, affordable lunch.
Book a private tour and explore
Portree
with a local expert guide.
Tours visiting this attraction
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