As I gazed out at the Atlantic Ocean, the frigid wind and rain blowing so hard against my face I could barely open my eyes, a huge smile spread across my face.
I had finally made it to the mystical Isle of Skye; a place so staggeringly beautiful its rock pinnacles and mountain ranges are said to have been formed by mythical creatures.
Wild scenery is the norm here, from striking sea cliffs to windswept valleys, glistening lochs and black sand beaches. The landscape is extreme and diverse, and it seemed almost otherworldly at times.
Relentless rolling fog and low-hanging mist created an air of mystery, and I began to understand why the island is associated with folklore, spirits, and legends. With castles and fairy pools, many parts of Skye look like a fairytale come to life; a place where you could almost imagine giants and fairies roaming about.
My visit to the Isle of Skye was a literal – and figurative – breath of fresh air. It was the first time I had been in an awe-inspiring natural setting, surrounded by raw, rugged beauty and unspoiled landscapes in a long while, and I felt an overwhelming sense of calm while I was there.
I carried the serenity and solace back with me to Edinburgh, and as the familiar facades of the city that I’ve come to love so dearly started to come into view, I realized my mind was still preoccupied with the vistas of Skye. The misty air and salty ocean breeze lingered on my damp clothes, and images of cascading waterfalls and craggy mountains danced through my head.
A week after visiting, Skye remains vividly in the back of my mind. This isle shrouded in mystery and magic still calls to me, and it’s a place I won’t soon forget.
18 Comments
Love this, Ash! I’m hoping to go this summer so will need to get all the information from you 🙂 x
Thanks, Ash! 🙂 So exciting that you’re going this summer! I will definitely give you some info!
I have yet to go to the Highlands but it looks so beautiful! To me there really is something about Scotland, I’d love to go on some kind of road trip there to see the Loch Ness, some of the castles, lakes and islands. It looks incredible <3 xx
The scenery is so beautiful! I’d love to do a longer road trip as well – there’s still so much more to see!
The scenery looks beautiful. I’d love to go someday!
The scenery is breathtaking – I’m sure you’d love it!
I have a thing for islands so to me they’re all a bit magical 🙂 I’d heard about the beauty of Skye before – it looks stunning, but that weather, ugh!
http://www.camilleinwonderlands.com
I know – the weather was pretty horrendous, but the beautiful scenery made up for it!
Ahh it looks beautiful! Can’t wait to read more on Scotland!
It is such a stunning place! I’m glad you’re looking forward to more Scotland posts, Amanda 🙂
Fantastic views.
They are fantastic views indeed 🙂
The Isle of Skye is one my dream destinations, and your pictures are amazing! Its beauty is haunting.
Thanks so much! It is such a beautiful place. Hopefully you’ll have the chance to see it when you visit Scotland next year!
I stayed on the Isle of Skye about 12 years ago and it still lingers in my mind as the most hauntingly beautiful place I’ve ever been.
That doesn’t surprise me in the slightest! It’s definitely one of those places that will stay with you long after you’ve left.
Haven’t been to the Isle of Skye yet, but Isle of Man exudes a calming magic. There’s a serenity in the land I’ve never felt anywhere else. It’s a wonder.
I’ve heard great things about Isle of Man, but I haven’t been! Definitely sounds similar to Skye’s enchanting vibe.