Isle of Skye
80 miles | 2.5 hours driving | Google Map
Today you’ll head west and over the sea to the magical Isle of Skye. You’ll take the A830, a road best known locally as the “Road to the Isles”, to Mallaig, where the ferry departs for Skye.
Book a mid-afternoon ferry to give yourself plenty of time in the morning for breakfast at your hotel, visiting Glenfinnan, and arriving at the ferry without feeling rushed.
Road to the Isles
Glenfinnan Viaduct
Start your day at the spectacular Glenfinnan Viaduct. It’s also one of Scotland’s most iconic places, steeped in Jacobite history and heritage – this is where Bonnie Prince Charlie landed on his quest for the crown and to overthrow British rule.
This is a popular spot, so be aware that it can get busy, and parking in the morning before the train crosses the viaduct is a premium. We cannot stress enough - if you want to see the train cross the bridge, arrive early to avoid parking issues!
Note: at the time of writing, the Jacobite Steam Train is not running; however, the train operator is hopeful it will run over the summer. If you’re looking to see the train cross the bridge, please sign up for updates.
Unless you’re staying in the immediate area, park in the main car park (£5 fee) and walk up the main road to the Glenfinnan Dining Car for breakfast, brunch or coffee and a cake (15-minute walk). It’s a unique dining experience in an old train carriage, featuring only quality local produce.
On a nice day, I suggest walking the scenic Glenfinnan Trail between the dining car and the viaduct. The path is usually muddy, so you’ll need suitable footwear. But it’s otherwise an easy trail with stunning views of the mountains and lochs.
Turn left out of the carriage and down the steps to the Viaduct Trail. It takes you on a path past numerous viewpoints over Loch Shiel & the viaduct. The walk from the dining car to the viewpoint takes approximately 30 minutes, but it’s best to arrive early.
If you have time, you can walk out to Glenfinnan Monument at the head of Loch Shiel.
Directions: Glenfinnan car park (pay-and-display)
Route Note
Glenfinnan → Mallaig
From Glenfinnan, join the A830 heading west toward Mallaig. This is the main road connecting Fort William with the west coast and is a well-maintained, single-carriageway route.
Shortly after leaving Glenfinnan, the road runs alongside Loch Eilt. Traffic is generally light, though you may encounter campervans and tour coaches, so allow a little flexibility with timing. Continue west through Lochailort, where the road briefly meets the sea before turning inland again. The route remains straightforward, with clear signage and no major junctions to navigate - simply stay on the A830 all the way to Mallaig.
The distance from Glenfinnan to Mallaig is approximately 30 miles and typically takes 45–50 minutes without stops. However, if the weather is good, then you’ll want to allow time to visit the wild beaches around Arisaig:
Mallaig + Skye Ferry
As you approach Mallaig, follow signs for the harbour or town centre, depending on your onward plans.
If you get into Mallaig with time to spare before your ferry, there are a few nice cafes & bakeries to visit. Don't plan too much time here, as it's an industrial port town. Generally, you’ll need to check in 30 minutes before your departure time; check your ticket for specifics.
For food, head to The Bakehouse & Crannog (a great bakery & coffee shop on the waterfront) or Bloom & Graze (picnic snack boxes for the ferry).
Directions: Mallaig Ferry terminal
Ferry terminal: join the ferry queue at the terminal as directed by CalMac staff.
Town parking: West Bay car park
Over the sea
The Isle of Skye
You’ll find all the information to book this journey - which takes around 45 minutes - in your “transport essentials” tab. This is a popular ferry route, so be sure to book this ferry in advance. If you’re hoping to spend more time at Glenfinnan in the morning, we recommend booking an afternoon ferry to give yourself plenty of time to get here.
On the other side, stop at:
Bar Am Praban & Pràban na Linne
A secluded pier surrounded by quaint whitewashed buildings. On a nice day, it’s perfect for a drink or lunch on the grassy area with picnic benches. Pràban translates to shebeen, the black pot / illicit still used by smugglers. The bar serves fresh seafood landed on the pier opposite. The langoustines are excellent and highly recommended if you enjoy seafood.
Eas a' Bhradain waterfall
If it’s been raining, Eas a' Bhradain waterfall is worth stopping to see. You pass it from the road, but if it’s not flowing, it’s not worth stopping. You need to cross the busy road, then walk along it for a short distance. It’s very boggy if you want to get close, so wear suitable footwear.
Check In At Your Hotel
You’ll arrive at your accommodation sometime later in the afternoon or early evening. We suggest taking some time to relax after a busy day of driving and enjoying your stay. You’ll find recommended eateries in your Skye essentials section. Be sure to book your table in advance.