The stars have fascinated people since the beginning of time; their beauty visible from millions of miles away. Our large cities block the view of the night sky, but there’s one area of Scotland where the skies are still as deep and dark as they were a hundred years ago. The island of Lochalsh, Scotland also known as the Isle of Skye, is known for their beautifully dark skies that have been relatively unaffected by light pollution from major cities.
Isle of Skye – Photo Courtesy of Moyan Brenn
Being able to see a couple of stars may seem that important as we’ve surely all gazed upon the stars. But once you step outside in the dusk in the Isle of Skye you’ll be shocked with the wonder of the cosmos that stretches out before you. Like a kid spotting the Big Dipper for the first time it will fill you with excitement and awe.
The stars isn’t all there is to see in this quaint Celtic area. Once all instruments were banned by the strict Presbyterian Church but now this are once again thrives with tradition singers, award-winning fiddlers, pipers and accordion players that will have you step-dancing with the locals in no time. The Syke Festival (Fèis en Eilein) celebrated in the summer bring together local talents and the beauty of the sky.
When there is not a festival going on music can be heard floating out of the pubs and café’s along with the wonderful smells of fresh highland foods. Fresh seafood is brought everyday and goes straight from the port to the plate combined with salads, herbs, berries and cheeses all produced in Lochalsh. Enjoy your meal with a pint of ale from the local brewery or choose from one of the other 14 drinks produced at the distillery, brewery or microbrewery all located on the island.