Best attractions and places to see around Struan, a village on the Isle of Skye, Scotland, offers a range of natural and historical points of interest. The area is characterized by its coastal location, providing views of the sea and surrounding landscapes. Visitors can explore ancient sites and enjoy walks through diverse terrain. The local economy is supported by tourism, fishing, and crofting.
Last updated: August 25, 2026
Highlight • Bridge
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Highlight (Segment) • Trail
Tip by
Sign up now to discover places like this
Get recommendations on the best single tracks, peaks, & plenty of other exciting outdoor places.
Sign up for free
Highlight • Settlement
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Highlight • Settlement
Tip by
Highlight • River
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Sign up for free to discover even more attractions around Struan.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Portree harbour lies deep in a sheltered bay, where colourful gables along the quay contrast with dark cliffs and the ever-changing light of Skye. Fishing boats, tour boats and the tide create a lively, almost cinematic backdrop. From the waterline, you look out towards the hills around Ben Tianavaig, which give the bay an intimate, natural embrace.
1
0
The harbour of Portree is the heart of the main town on the Isle of Skye and significantly shapes the townscape. Nestled in a sheltered bay, it serves both fishing boats and excursion ships and remains economically important to this day. The harbour is particularly known for the colourful houses on the promenade, which, together with the boats, form a picturesque panorama. The surrounding hills enhance the impressive backdrop. For visitors, the harbour is a central starting point for walks, boat trips, and experiencing the typically maritime atmosphere of Portree.
0
0
The harbor of Portree is the heart of the main town of the Isle of Skye and decisively shapes the cityscape. Nestled in a sheltered bay, it serves both fishing boats and excursion ships and remains economically important to this day. The harbor is particularly known for the colorful houses on the promenade, which, together with the boats, form a picturesque panorama. The surrounding hills enhance the impressive backdrop. For visitors, the harbor is a central starting point for walks, boat trips, and experiencing the typically maritime atmosphere of Portree.
1
0
The River Sligachan is located on the Isle of Skye in Scotland and is known for its picturesque landscape and the impressive backdrop of the Cuillin mountains. The clear water of the river flows through a wild, rocky landscape, which is particularly popular with photographers and hikers. One of the most famous sights is the old stone bridge of Sligachan, which blends harmoniously into the surroundings and is a popular photo motif. The river is famous for its crystal-clear water and the legend that whoever dips their face in the water will attain eternal beauty. The Sligachan area is a popular starting point for hikes into the Cuillin Hills and is also excellent for fly fishing. Especially in the evening hours, when the mountains glow in the light of the setting sun, the river unfolds its full romantic atmosphere.
0
0
The river collects a lot of water from the path and lets it flow into the sea as expected.
0
0
Portree is a relatively small capital - only around 2,100 people live here. Nevertheless, it is rightly the centre of life on Skye, as it divides the island into a northern and a southern half. As a Skye tourist, you can hardly avoid Portree. It is the transport hub; all of the island's major bus routes start from the town's central square, Somerled Square.
0
0
The folklore surrounding the River Sligachan is centred on the legend of the warrior woman Scáthach and her encounter with the Irish hero Cú Chulainn. According to the tale, Scáthach was a formidable warrior who trained heroes in the art of combat. She and Cú Chulainn engaged in a fierce battle, but eventually, they made peace. The legend goes that the waters beneath the Sligachan Bridge are enchanted. It is said that if you dip your face in these waters, you will be granted eternal beauty.
0
0
Portree (Scottish Gaelic: Port Rìgh) is the largest town on the Isle of Skye in Scotland. Portree is located on the eastern side of the island, flanked by high cliffs. The town has approximately 4,000 inhabitants. The town is situated on the A87, which connects it to the mainland via the Skye Bridge. Portree is a tourist centre on Skye, and several bus services connect Portree to the rest of the island. Portree has a number of shopping streets, a harbour, a tourist office and a hospital. The island's only secondary school is located in Portree. In the 18th century, the town was a popular departure point for journeys to America. Many Scots left their land here to build a better life and escape poverty. During a major food shortage in 1846 (the Highland Potato Famine), the town began exporting fish, which greatly boosted the local economy. The harbour was often used as a rest stop for onward travel to the Outer Hebrides. Portree had the last manual telephone exchange in the UK, which closed in 1976.
0
0
Struan, located on the Isle of Skye, offers a variety of outdoor activities. You can find numerous hiking trails, including easy walks and more challenging routes. For instance, the Scorrybreac Circuit near Portree provides brilliant views over Raasay and Portree Harbour. There are also dedicated guides for easy hikes, MTB trails, and running trails in the area, catering to different fitness levels and interests.
Yes, the area around Struan is rich in history. You can visit the Sligachan Old Bridge, an impressive three-arched structure built between 1810 and 1818, steeped in local myths. Another significant historical site is Dunvegan Castle, a notable landmark in the wider Skye area with wide views of the sea. Additionally, the Collie and Mackenzie Statue near Sligachan commemorates pioneering mountaineers of the Cuillin Hills.
Struan is surrounded by stunning natural beauty. Beyond the historical sites, you can experience the vibrant Portree Harbour, known for its colorful scenery and fresh fish and chips. The wider Isle of Skye offers iconic natural features such as the Old Man of Storr, the enchanting Fairy Pools with their clear waters and waterfalls, the dramatic cliffs of Kilt Rock, and the scenic Talisker Bay Beach. The majestic Cuillin Hills also dominate the landscape, attracting climbers and hikers.
Many attractions around Struan are suitable for families. The Sligachan Old Bridge is an easy stop with a fascinating myth. Dunvegan Castle offers historical exploration in a beautiful setting. Portree Harbour is a lovely spot for a stroll and enjoying the atmosphere. The Collie and Mackenzie Statue is also a family-friendly point of interest.
Visitors particularly appreciate the blend of natural beauty and historical significance. The Sligachan Old Bridge is often highlighted as a good place to rest and enjoy the myths. The Scorrybreac Circuit is praised for its brilliant views over Raasay and Portree Harbour. The overall appeal lies in the stunning landscapes, the rich history, and the opportunities for scenic walks and exploration.
For easy walks, consider the easy hikes guide around Struan. Options include routes like the Path to Oronsay loop from Ullinish or the Talisker Distillery loop from Carbost, which are generally shorter and less strenuous. The Struan Hill Road Forest Track, about 4.5 miles from Portree, also offers an accessible linear walk with great views.
Yes, many attractions around Struan offer excellent viewpoints. The Scorrybreac Circuit provides fantastic views of the sea, meadows, and Portree Harbour. Dunvegan Castle also boasts wide views of the sea. Additionally, the Struan Hill Road Forest Track offers glimpses of Glamaig and the Cuillins, while the Old Man of Storr and Kilt Rock provide dramatic natural vistas.
The Isle of Skye, including Struan, is popular during the warmer months, typically from spring to autumn (April to October), when the weather is milder and daylight hours are longer, making outdoor exploration more comfortable. However, the dramatic landscapes can be equally captivating in winter, though some facilities or paths might be less accessible due to weather conditions.
While Struan itself is a small village, nearby Portree, the main town on the Isle of Skye, offers various options for food and accommodation. Portree Harbour is a great place to enjoy fish and chips, and the town has campsites, B&Bs, hotels, and hostels. It's advisable to reserve tables at restaurants, especially during peak season.
Yes, Dun Beag, located northwest of Struan village, is one of Scotland's best-preserved Iron Age brochs. It offers a fascinating glimpse into ancient history and has no entrance charge, making it an accessible historical site for visitors.
The Sligachan Old Bridge, designed by Thomas Telford and built between 1810 and 1818, is not only an impressive piece of engineering but also holds local mythical significance. One legend suggests that dipping one's face into the River Sligachan beneath the bridge bestows eternal beauty, provided you don't dry your face afterwards.
Yes, there are mountain biking opportunities around Struan. You can explore various routes, including challenging ones like the Portree to Quairaing Pass loop, or moderate trails such as the Wind Farm Descent loop. For more details, refer to the MTB Trails around Struan guide.


Still not found the Highlight you’re looking for? See guides of the top attractions in other regions: