Island Hopping Dreams: Sail Away to Skye and Harris

Forget airport stress, passport queues and 100ml limits. Travelling by ferry invites you to slow down and savour the journey. From secret beaches and sweeping hill walks to castle ruins and candlelit dinners, Scotland’s islands offer a wilder, more soulful kind of escape. Let the sea set the pace, the views reset your head, and the food and drink fuel your next adventure.

Knipoch House Hotel, Oban

Known as the Gateway to the Isles, Oban is your perfect springboard for ferry adventures. Just a short drive from town, Knipoch House Hotel is a warm and welcoming country house overlooking Loch Feochan. Think roaring fires, lochside views, and a hint of Highland grandeur.

The jewel in its crown? 1635 – the hotel’s seven-course tasting experience showcasing the best local produce from land and sea. From scallops to venison, each dish tells a story of Argyll.

There’s plenty to do nearby too – wild swims, boat trips, hill walks and distillery tours are all on the doorstep.

Duisdale House Hotel, Skye

Step off the ferry at Armadale and into a Highland haven. Just 15 minutes from the terminal, Duisdale House Hotel is a former Victorian mansion with views over the Sound of Sleat and the rugged Knoydart mountains.

Inside, expect contemporary comfort and two AA-rosette dining celebrating Skye’s seasonal larder. Arriving by yacht? There’s even a private mooring just in front of the hotel (£15 per night).

While here, wander the romantic grounds of Armadale Castle, dip into a smoky dram at Torabhaig Distillery, or time your visit to Talisker Bay for an unforgettable sunset.

Skeabost House Hotel, Skye

Heading north? Skeabost House Hotel, just outside Portree, is full of Highland romance – complete with a river for salmon fishing, panoramic views and brasserie-style dining.

This is your base for exploring Skye’s cinematic north – from the mystical ruins of Trumpan Church to the striking cliffs of Neist Point and the luminous sands of Coral Beach.

Come back to a fireside dram and supper that warms you to your core.

Isle of Harris Distillery

Step off the ferry at Tarbert and straight into the spirit of the Hebrides. The Isle of Harris Distillery is more than just a place to sip gin and whisky – it’s a love letter to island life.

Their now-iconic Isle of Harris Gin, distilled with hand-harvested sugar kelp, has become a cult favourite, and the release of their first single malt – The Hearach – marks a new chapter in island storytelling.

Join a tasting, take a warehouse tour, and pick up a bottle to take a little Harris magic home with you.

Set Sail with CalMac

Make the journey part of the experience with Caledonian MacBrayne. Whether you're planning a weekend escape or a multi-island road trip, CalMac ferries link up some of Scotland’s most scenic coastal routes, letting you island-hop with ease and plenty of photo opportunities.