Portree is a small harbor town on the Isle of Skye, and sits around a sheltered bay, where brightly painted houses line the waterfront and fishing boats gently bob in the harbor. It is the main town on Skye, yet it still feels wonderfully relaxed and easy to explore on foot.
Staying in Portree makes exploring the island simple. Scenic drives lead in every direction to some of Skye’s most famous landscapes, including the towering rocks of the Old Man of Storr, the dramatic hills of the Quiraing, and the crystal-clear pools beneath the Cuillin mountains at the Fairy Pools.
After a day exploring Skye’s wild scenery, returning to Portree feels just right. Cosy guesthouses, welcoming small hotels, and rooms with sweeping sea views create a comfortable base for your stay. Here are some of the most beautiful places to stay in Portree.
These are the kind of views you want to wake up to…
WHY WE RECOMMEND: This Hotel has an exceptional setting above Portree Bay. Rooms and gardens face the dramatic Black Cuillin Mountains, creating one of the most beautiful viewpoints on Skye. It is peaceful, elegant, and just minutes from the centre of Portree.
Guests dine at The View restaurant while looking across Portree Bay toward the dramatic Cuillin Mountains, making breakfast or dinner here one of the most memorable dining settings on Skye.
Book a room with a view – you can thank us later… 🙂
TRAVEL TIP:
Stroll Along the Harbour where the colorful waterfront houses reflect in the calm waters, creating picture-perfect moments. Pop into a small café for a hot drink while you watch fishing boats drift by.
WHY WE RECOMMEND: We recommend this hotel for its elegant rooms housed in a traditional mansion surrounded by peaceful estate land near Portree. The hotel has a highly rated on‑site restaurant and cozy lounges with views over the gardens and nearby hills.
Classic charm, expansive grounds, terrific food.
TRAVEL TIP:
Taste the Local Seafood – Small restaurants in town serve fresh scallops, crab, and smoked salmon. I’d recommend trying a traditional fish and chips by the water for a simple, satisfying experience.
TRAVEL TIP:
Shop for Local Crafts – Browse independent shops for woollen scarves, pottery, and Skye whisky. The little galleries and gift stores have treasures you won’t find anywhere else.
WHY WE RECOMMEND: The next hotel, we recommend for its stylish, contemporary design and excellent location just above the harbor in Portree. Many of the hotel rooms have wide views across Portree Bay, and the on-site restaurant is well known for modern Scottish cuisine.
Lovely views, beautiful interior, excellent service.
TRAVEL TIP:
Sunset from The Pier – Wrap up the day with the sun sinking behind the hills. The sky often paints itself in pinks and golds, reflecting in the harbour. It’s one of those moments that feels like it’s just for you.
WHY WE RECOMMEND: A purpose-built, one-bedroom property tucked away on a crag above the sea in Portree. The cottage offers uninterrupted panoramic views, a private driveway, and easy walking access to shops, restaurants, and local services while still feeling completely island‑remote.
Luxury, privacy, stunning sea views.
TRAVEL TIP:
Start Early for the Iconic Spots – Places like the Old Man of Storr and Kilt Rock get busy by mid-morning. Hitting them at sunrise or early morning gives you quiet trails and the best light for photos.
WHY WE RECOMMEND: This place is a highly rated self‑catering apartment set in the dramatic landscape of Trotternish Ridge, just a short drive from Portree. Each self-catering unit has a fully equipped kitchen and easy access to walking trails and loch views.
Comfortable rooms, scenic countryside location, great base for hikes.
TRAVEL TIP:
Fuel Up Locally – Pop into Portree bakeries or cafés for a hearty breakfast before heading out. Fresh pastries, local smoked salmon, and coffee make for a scenic picnic on the road.
TRAVEL TIP:
Pack Snacks and Water – Many hikes and viewpoints don’t have shops nearby. Having a small backpack with water, snacks, and maybe a thermos of tea lets you linger longer at the stunning spots without worrying about finding food.
WHY WE RECOMMEND: We recommend this one bedroom holiday home for its views, set in Waternish, a scenic area about 25 minutes’ drive from Portree.
Each cottage has contemporary interiors, a fully equipped kitchen, and beautiful views over the surrounding countryside — perfect for a couple going on the Isle of Skye road trip.
Comfortable design, peaceful setting, easy base for exploring Skye.
If Scotland’s heritage speaks to you, explore the country’s UNESCO World Heritage Sites — from ancient Neolithic landscapes to engineering marvels that shaped modern Scotland.
WHY WE RECOMMEND: A modern, one‑bedroom holiday home perched in the Scottish countryside with views over Loch Snizort and the hills beyond. The setting is perfect. From the terrace/living room you see open countryside, sea glimpses, and often sheep grazing nearby. The quiet position feels peaceful — much quieter than staying right in town, but you’re still only about a 15‑minute drive from Portree centre.
Watch our video of the colorful houses Portree is famous for >>>
After settling in, drive or stroll to Portree Harbour and grab a table at a waterfront eatery, enjoying fresh scallops or local fish and chips. Time your meal so you can step outside just before sunset — the colourful houses reflecting in the calm harbour water create a perfect scene. Sip a warm drink, breathe in the sea air, and let the golden light slowly fade behind the surrounding hills.
WHY WE RECOMMEND: This is a three‑bedroom self‑catering vacation home that sleeps up to five people — great if you want more room than a typical hotel and a proper home base for your Skye days. It’s a single‑storey house with a large open‑plan living area, kitchen, dining space and cozy sitting corner with a fireplace that makes unwinding easy after exploring the island.
Portree has a quiet way of sneaking into your heart. Even a short visit leaves memories that linger long after you’ve left the Isle of Skye, and it’s easy to imagine returning, drawn again by its calm, rugged beauty.
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