If you’re heading to the Isle of Skye, chances are you’ll find yourself in Portree at some point. It is the island’s friendly capital, a colourful waterfront town nestled in a sheltered bay, and one of Scotland’s most inviting places to begin an adventure.
In this guide, we’ll explore What to Do in Portree, how to reach it, the best nearby attractions, and the flavours and culture that make this destination unforgettable.
Where is Portree?
Portree lies on Scotland’s west coast, roughly halfway up the east side of the Isle of Skye. It sits about 35 miles (56 km) north of the Skye Bridge at Kyle of Lochalsh, making it a natural stopping point once you arrive on the island.
The town’s iconic painted harbourside is tucked into a natural inlet, protected by rocky headlands and woodland slopes. This setting gives Portree an intimate, almost theatre-like feel: fishing boats bob in the bay, seagulls circle overhead, and the Cuillin Hills rise dramatically to the south - reminding visitors they are on the doorstep of wild landscapes.
A Glimpse into Portree History
Portree has served as Skye’s central hub for centuries. Its name may derive from the Gaelic “Port Rìgh,” meaning “King’s Harbour,” after King James V, who is said to have visited in the 16th century. The town grew into a fishing and trading port, eventually becoming a service and education centre for the entire island.
In the 19th century, Portree became a vital departure point during the Highland Clearances, when many families left for Canada, America, and Australia. This sorrowful chapter is still felt through local memory and folklore.
The harbour area - now filled with pastel-coloured buildings - was once a busy working dock. Today, it remains active but is more associated with leisure cruises and seafood restaurants than with commercial shipping.
Despite its modern conveniences, Portree hasn’t lost its Gaelic identity. You’ll see bilingual signage, hear Gaelic music in pubs, and encounter locals who use Gaelic as part of everyday life. For visitors, this cultural richness is not merely a backdrop; it’s an invitation to experience Skye authentically.
Exploring the Town: Shops, Cafés, and Harbour Views
The best way to arrive in Portree is on foot - with time to wander. Begin your stroll in Somerled Square, the heart of the town. Independent boutiques, outdoor clothing stores, and local craft shops line the surrounding streets.
Portree is a treasure trove of handmade goods: ceramic pieces inspired by Skye’s coastal tones, Celtic jewellery crafted from silver or Skye marble, and warm knitwear made for island weather.
Follow the gentle slope down to the harbour, and you’ll find postcard-perfect views. This is one of the most photographed locations in Scotland. If you’re lucky enough to visit early or near sunset, the colours of the houses reflect on the water, making the bay shimmer like a painting. Benches along the pier are ideal for watching fishing boats return or simply breathing in the salty island air.
Restaurants in Portree
Dining in Portree offers an impressive range of choices for such a small town. Seafood is a highlight—think freshly landed langoustines, hake, and scallops - often prepared simply to let their natural flavour shine. You’ll also find traditional Scottish pubs serving hearty fare: venison pies, smoked salmon, haggis, and comforting soups on chilly days.
Many restaurants in Portree emphasise local sourcing, a philosophy that fits naturally with island life. Expect menus that change with the season and the sea.
If seafood isn’t your passion, you’ll still find excellent options, from Italian bistros to modern cafés, bakeries, and casual takeaways.
Check out our blog for more information on dining options.
Booking ahead is wise, especially in summer, when dining rooms fill up quickly.
Outdoor Activities and Scenic Walks
One of the town’s best-kept secrets is how close it is to excellent walking routes. Just a short climb above the harbour lies Scorrybreac, a circular coastal path that loops around cliffs and woodland, offering panoramic views toward Raasay.
It’s an easy-to-moderate walk that rewards visitors with some of the most impressive photo opportunities on Skye, all without leaving town.
Things to Do Near Portree
Portree is a gateway to some of Skye’s most iconic landscapes. North of the town lies the Trotternish Peninsula, a looping ridge of basalt cliffs and pinnacles that looks almost prehistoric.
The Old Man of Storr, just a 15-minute drive away, is perhaps Skye’s most recognisable landmark. A short, steep hike leads to views that stretch over the Sound of Raasay and the mainland Highlands. The farther you go, the better it gets: the jagged ridges above the tower feel like stepping into a fantasy world.
Continue north to the Quiraing, a landslip unlike anything else in Britain. Its cliffs, spires, and shadowed valleys create an otherworldly landscape. Photographers, filmmakers, and hikers flock here year-round.
For a gentler, atmospheric spot, wander the maze-like hills of the Fairy Glen near Uig, where nature seems to have sculpted miniature towers and terraces.
Along the coast, Kilt Rock and Mealt Falls offer a dramatic viewpoint, with basalt columns resembling pleats of tartan and a waterfall plunging straight into the sea. Dino enthusiasts should stop at Staffin Beach, where preserved dinosaur footprints can sometimes be seen at low tide.
On the Water: Cruises and Wildlife
Portree Harbour is the starting point for scenic wildlife cruises.
Boats venture into the nearby waters in search of dolphins, seals, and the magnificent white-tailed sea eagle - one of Europe’s largest birds of prey. Sightings are common, especially in spring and summer.
Some trips take you along the cliffs, while others head toward Raasay or Rona, giving you a fresh perspective on the island’s wild coastline.
How to Get to Portree
Reaching Portree is easier than many first-time visitors expect. Most travellers arrive by road via the Skye Bridge at Kyle of Lochalsh, which connects the island to the mainland without tolls. From there, follow the A87 north, winding along lochs, hills, and sea inlets before reaching the town.
Public transport is available, with bus services from Inverness, Fort William, and Glasgow connecting to Skye - though schedules can be limited. Many visitors rent a car to explore at their own pace. For those wondering about the route from Scotland’s capital, Edinburgh to Portree, it typically takes around 5½ to 6½ hours by car, depending on traffic and stops.
The drive is spectacular: you’ll pass through the Highlands, cross the Skye Bridge, and then follow island roads into town.
Visit Portree with Scottish Tours
If you’d rather leave the driving and planning to someone else, an escorted tour is an excellent way to experience Skye. The island’s winding single-track roads and remote terrain are best navigated with an expert guide, and we have a wide choice of Isle of Skye tours available.
Whether you fancy a one-day excursion from Inverness, a 3-day Isle of Skye tour from Edinburgh or a 4-day adventure from London, we’ve got it covered.
Browse our Scotland tours today.