Scotland presents its most gay-friendly island: Skye

May 16 2011

by Marc Dedonder

When we are preparing to select our next gay friendly destination, we look at what is possible within our budget and the best time to discover our temporary adopted country.

Islands always attract tourists. Especially among gays. We can think of Hvar in Croatia, Sicily in Italy or Ibiza in Spain. Why not change and discover a new destination. Scotland presents its most gay friendly island!

The Isle of Skye has been on everyone's lips since it won the prestigious annual award for the best European island according to the readers of Condé Nast Traveller. This highly symbolic distinction follows a major award from National Geographic.

Fashionable often means gay friendly! The Isle of Skye is in full tourist development. The infrastructures to welcome gay tourists are still to be made, but its population remains very welcoming and open to this cultural diversity.

Don't look for a gay bar because there is simply none. That doesn't mean you can't have fun. For now, the Isle of Skye is exploring all the alternative tourist attractions that might appeal to a diverse clientele. But in return, you'll find many gay-friendly hotels that welcome same-sex couples with respect.

Isle of Skye: a beauty made in Scotland
The Isle of Skye is located on the west coast of Scotland. Dynamic and diverse, there is much to do on the Isle of Skye. Whether it's getting up close and personal with wildlife, art and culture, or playing sports, there's something for everyone on this island of a thousand and one legends.
The museums and visitor centers have been inspired by the cultural heritage and environmental factors that have shaped the community and lives of the islanders for centuries.

Cland Donald Castle
Located on a vast 20,000 acre site on the Sleat Peninsula, this estate offers an incredible castle and garden tour. Today, it is also home to one of Skye's premier historical museums.

Eilean Donan Castle
No visit to Skye would be complete without a visit to Eilean Donan Castle, one of Scotland's iconic images. Winner of an award for best tourist attraction, the castle is now photographed by thousands of tourists every summer. The must-see attraction on the Isle of Skye.

Dunvagan Castle & Gardens
This magnificent castle represents a pride for the Scots. Dunvagan Castle is the oldest permanently inhabited castle in Scotland. In the summer, you can discover its 800 years of history and go back in time. The castle's gardens are as impressive as its architecture.

The Isle of Skye offers an alternative destination that is respectful of gay tourists. For those who are looking for something different, Skye is the place to be!