Pictures of the Isle of Skye - I have mentioned previously how I believe that the landscape of Scotland lends itself to the art of photography and nowhere is this truer, than on the Isle of Skye. There are plenty pictures to be had on Skye. I have spent most of my visits to Skye climbing it's magnificent hills but my future visits will be spent behind the camera trying to capture it's splendour and many moods.

The Isle of Skye is referred to in Gaelic poetry as Eilean a' Cheo` ( The Misty Isle ) An Island of history, romance and stunning landscape, an Island of poetry and music. From the days of the Vikings and the Fairy Flag of the MacLeods, to the tales of Bonnie Prince Charlie during his wanderings after Culloden and the incredible barbarism of the clearances and the famous "Battle Of The Braes " the Island is steeped in history. The poetry of Sorley MacLean and the pipe music of the MacCrimmon family have also played their part in the islands worldwide popularity and of course in recent years the music of "Runrig" has helped maintain the profile of both Skye and the Gaelic language. This glorious part of Scotland has everything for the visitor and whether you visit on your own or with the family there is plenty to see and do for all ages.

The hills of the Black Cuillin dominate the southern end of the island and along with the Red Hills and Bla Bheinn (Blaven) they attract climbers and walkers from around the world. The north of the island is also popular with the hill lover and a great day can be had amid the pinnacles and towers of the Quiraing or The Old Man of Storr.

Elgol sits on the west coast of the Strathaird peninsula and this photograph is taken looking accross Loch Scavaig to the Cuillin ridge. Driving along the single track B8083 from Broadford you will journey through some wonderful scenery, passing through the village of Torrin round the head of Loch Slapin the magnificent Bla Bheinn seems to rise straight out of the waters of the Loch. On arrival at Elgol walk North along the coastline of Loch Scavaig to Camasunary an ideal spot for a picnic. Another route to Camasunary is from Kilmarie which you pass on the road to Elgol. For the serious walker you can continue form Camasunary to the hidden jewel of the Cuillin, Loch Coruisk, but before reaching your goal you have to negotiate the "Bad Step" a gap which you must step over with nothing below you but the sea. It sounds worse than it is. From the Jetty at Elgol you can walk south along the headland to reach yet another Bonnie Prince Charlie cave, this is reputed to be his last hiding place on Skye before leaving for Morar.

Loch Coruisk is a magical spot, sitting under the Cuillin ridge the peace and tranquility to be found here is truly beautiful. It can also be reached by a fairly long but easy walk from Sligachan. A less energetic way of reaching this unique spot is to take a boat trip from Elgol.

There is so much more to see in this area of Skye, so when you visit Scotland make sure The Misty Isle is on your must visit list and don't forget the camera.