Is it just us, or does it seem as though everyone is looking for a week away with substance, and a bit of adventure (all within a stone’s throw, of course)?
Located on the North-West coast of Scotland, joined to the mainland only by bridge, you will find the Isle of Skye aka Cloud Island (which sounds pretty whimsical before you even hit Google). Brimming with honey-coloured views, seafood like you’ve never had before and hiking trails for miles, it’s no wonder that this dreamy destination is on everybody’s bucket list (and ticks all the boxes for said week away).
Keep reading for the Caperberry 4-1-1 on our favourite hidden treasures, hideaways and beaches in this Scottish oasis.
THE BOTHY: Stonechat Bothy
Stonechat Bothy is one of those spaces you could see yourself returning to time after time. There is nothing that hasn’t been thought of, from kindling for the wood-burner (provided year round) to binoculars on the window sill, yet it feels far from cluttered. Think: a dash of Scandi minimalism combined with cosy cottage. It’s both humble and welcoming and feels like home the moment you walk in.
With a view of only the rugged highlands in sight, but within walking distance of friendly locals, driving distance to the supermarket – the Bothy is both the perfect amount secluded and accessible.
The panoramic window was one of our favourite features of the space. From watching the sun go down to watching the light change throughout the afternoon. In the summer months, it doesn’t get dark until nearly 11pm, meaning optimum viewing time (with a glass of red and bowl of olives, of course). And in the Winter there’s a chance you’ll see the Northern Lights, making the hardest decision choosing when to go!
Max wears: Septembers Charlie Shirt , Frej Pants & Peri Sweater (All in Navy)
The quaint ‘capital’, Portree, is a very pretty 40 minutes drive away, beaches surround the island and lochs are around every corner. We spent five days exploring and could have easily spent another five – Believe us when we say there is a lot to see and a lot to do.
We couldn’t say more great things about this stunning spot and it’s surrounding natural wonderland. This family run Bothy has the feel of a place that’ll bring you a little more magic each time you come.
THE FOOD: The Oyster Shed
‘The Oyster Shed’ in Carbost was probably our favourite. Located on a hillside, just 1 minute from Talisker Brewery and 5 minutes from Talisker Bay (more on this stunning black sand beach below) and with unbeatable views of the Cuillins. Once inside, relax and order yourself half a dozen oysters (harvested daily from their farm in Loch Harport) and a side of chips, and rest assured that the buzzing atmosphere is absolutely reflective of just how feel-good a place this is, and how out-of-this world fresh the food is.
As well as oysters, the family business serves and sells a whole range of seafood and produce from Skye, the Highlands and the Islands – Including fresh crab, lobster, mussels, venison and cheese. So, stock up for supper back at The Bothy.
THE BEACH: Talisker Bay
This beach was, hands-down, our beach of choice. There are a million and one stunning little beaches, lochs and rivers to visit (we’re on an island in the middle of the Scottish Highlands, remember!) but this beach and this day – nothing could beat it.
Max wears: Shirley Bredal Classic Cardigan & Everyday Hat | Bonton Overalls | Kuling Caracas Rubber Boots | Olivia wears: Faithfull The Brand Scelsi Pant
Just a short, very pretty, 20 minutes walk from what some might call a car park, what we would call enough space to park a small handful of cars along the road leading up to a working farm, you’ll find Talisker Bay. Reach the end of the track and there it is – And what a treat. This black-sand beach surrounded by impressive cliffs is striking but also very (kid) friendly. The limited parking and short walk means it’s unlikely to come close to crowded. A serious ‘must’, whatever the weather. Be sure to check tide times, low tide is essential for building sand castles!
Max wears: Shirley Bredal Classic Cardigan & Everyday Hat | Bonton Overalls | Kuling Caracas Rubber Boots
Oh, and as you drive through Carbost, opposite the distillery, you’ll find the Caora Dhub Coffee Company – do not pass by without stopping! This place does the best coffee and millionaire shortbread on the island and the staff will remind you of the way to the beach!
THE CAR: Land Rover Discovery
When it emerged that Land Rover wanted to be involved in our Highland adventure, it was a plain straight (and rather excited) ‘yes’ from us. In fact, we chose to drive that little bit further and started the road trip from Glasgow Airport rather than it’s slightly closer Inverness counterpart. The option to drive through Glen Coe was a big factor in this decision too, because well, if there’s one thing we know for certain, this Land Rover was begging for some off-roading, wiggly worming and gliding it’s way through the Scottish Highlands. To sum up just how smooth this vehicle was, our 15 month old slept almost the whole way to The Bothy. Total dream.
THIS (without a doubt) HELPED TOO: The Cybex Sirona S i-Size
Which brings us onto…
THE JOURNEY: or more specifically, THE PITSTOP: Loch Fyne Seafood & Grill
On the (just over 4 hour) return journey from Stonechat to Glasgow Airport, we stopped at Loch Fyne Seafood & Grill (not to be confused with the well-known chain). About 1 hour from the airport, this makes an ideal last supper/lunch of the trip.
The place is fresh, fun and there are simply are no words for the food! Well, actually there are, read up just how mind-blowing-delicious the seafood platter, the size of our heads, really was: HERE
WHAT TO PACK:
Layers, layers, it’s all about the layers. And pack for all weathers, forecasts mean nothing!
1. OneTeaspoon Chalk Brandos Relaxed Fit Denim Short
2. Kuling Black Caracas Rubber Boots
3. Kuling Always Black Bristol Shell Coverall
4. Septembers Charlie Shirt , Frej Pants & Peri Sweater (All in Navy)
5. Caramel Hollyhock Baby Jumper
6. The Animals Observatory White Wasp Baby Body
Olivia wears: Sir The Label Constance Open Ruffle Back Gown
CAPER TIPS:
Just down the road from the Broadford Co-op store (5 minutes drive from Stonechat Bothy) you’ll find Claymore Shellfish Shack. Ring the bell for fresh seafood, from lobsters to prawns. Just don’t forget the chips!
Drive the Trotternish loop – this will take about half a day and you’ll see the sights you’ve been dreaming of since booking this trip (we planned to do the drive on our final day, which was inevitably and unfortunately too cloudy to see the sights, so we flagged it) – which leads us onto out next tip…
The weather forecast means nothing here! It can go from downpours to blinding sunshine within minutes. See What To Pack!
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Inspiration/Image Credits: thecaperberrycollective.com
