The Sleat peninsula is commonly known as ‘the garden of Skye’ due to its beautiful scenery of heather clad mountains and sparkling blue waters. There are miles of coastline to explore and a lovely sandy beach just 15 minutes’ drive away at Ord.

The peninsula can be accessed via a 30 minute ferry ride from Mallaig in Lochaber, or if you prefer, the Skye Bridge is only 25 minutes’ drive away, meaning that the mainland is easily reachable for day trips. The nearest settlement is the little hamlet of Armadale (2.75 miles) where there is a petrol station/PO and a farm shop where you can stock up on local produce.

The waters around Skye are prime sailing territory and bareboat and skippered yacht charters are available from the harbour. Boat trips also launch from there where you can spot a range of sealife/wildlife including seals, dolphins and whales.

Sleat offers some of the best dining on the island with several excellent restaurants within a short drive including Toravaig House, Duisdale House and Kinloch Lodge. There is also a bar/restaurant near the little village of Isleornsay (5 miles) in a picturesque spot looking out toward the Isle of Ornsay. There is a little gallery and a boutique there that sells clothing and accessories including traditional tweed and cashmere. There is fishing in the surrounding lochs and rivers with day or week permits available and experienced ghillies with expert local knowledge.

Broadford (13 miles) is the best place to stock up on supermarket supplies and if you fancy a touch of adventure you can even take a seaplane trip out from nearby Ashaig for an aerial tour of the island and the surrounding area.

The Clan Donald Skye Estate is a 20,000 acre country estate that offers country pursuits and charming walks around Armadale Castle which, although in ruins, is still an impressive building that forms a striking backdrop to its 40 acres of attractive gardens. A particularly picturesque walking trail leads from Aird (7 miles) out to the lighthouse at the Point of Sleat, the most southerly tip of the island, via the beautiful sandy beach at Camas Daraich. For a bit more of a challenge the famous Cuillin mountains offer a range of different peaks to tackle, as well as the chance to ‘bag’ some munros.