Some of my closest friends have had babies within the last year, but they're not the type to let parenthood stop them from getting out there and having adventures with their kids.
So it got me thinking: how do parents fare on Skye with their little ones? Is it still possible to see beautiful things when you've got to slow down for little legs? (Andrew has to do this with me.)
I thought I would create a mini itinerary for parents who want their weans to get out there and experience the outdoors.
Day 1
The Old Man of Storr
Ok this might sound too adventurous for little ones, but the hike is actually very well paved until you get to the top. I'm not suggesting that you take your kids all the way up to the Storr, or even the Sanctuary (where the Old Man is), but as far as the path's end still gives some pretty nice views.
I've seen people of all ages attempt this hike, it's a little steep in places, but I'm sure you can pop your baby in your backpack and march on up there for a good workout. If I can make it with my little legs, then so can your kids.
An Corran
What better way to rest after a morning's exertion than to have a picnic on a beach - with dinosaur footprints! Make it a treasure hunt with your little explorers, looking for the dino prints. Just make sure you go when the tide is out so you have a higher chance of seeing them.
Day 2
Boat trip from Elgol
Depending on how wild the weather is, a boat trip from Elgol is a good way to get the little ones out on the water and up close to the abundant wildlife present in the waters around Skye.
There are various trips you can choose from - wildlife spotting trips, an excursion to Loch Coruisk, etc. Take a picnic and have a stroll by the loch - it's a great way to experience being in the Cuillins without needing to climb or a strenuous walk.
Day 3
Fairy Pools
The Fairy Pools is a relatively easy hike for little legs - some friends of ours did it with their 3 year old recently and she absolutely loved it. There are some fairly wide stepping stones that I struggle with, but little kids can be carried or helped across, and it's not dangerous - unless you really don't like getting your feet wet.
There are little pools along the trail that older kids (and grown-ups) can have a paddle in, and again, it's a good chance to be among the mountains but not have to do some serious climbing. You can turn around at any point because there's not really an "end point" as such, and you'll still feel like you've had a lovely walk.
"Look mum, we found the dinosaur prints!"
Claigan Coral Beach
Claigan coral beach is a magical place for a family picnic. The "sand" is made of crushed coral-like seaweed and tiny shells. It's around a 3.6km return trip from the car park to the beach, taking about 25 minutes each way. It's quite an easy, well-paved route with an almost tropical feel with the clear blue sea and white sand. There are some rock pools further along the beach where you can search for interesting creatures.
At low tide there is a coral causeway out to the small island - Lampay - giving a great opportunity to explore further. Just make sure you come back before the tide comes in!
There is also a small hill next to the beach, a two minute climb, which gives lovely views.
Rainy Day Activities
Of course, there will more than likely be days when it rains and you just don't feel like braving the weather. So here are some family-friendly suggestions for what to do when it's a dreich day:
ACE Target Sports
This is still an outdoor activity, but it's mostly undercover, so you can still have fun in the rain. Channel your child's inner Viking with some axe throwing or archery, and they will get to meet the cute dogs that call the ACE Base home.
Dunvegan Castle
If your child enjoys learning, this is a great place to find out about the McLeods of Skye, and see historical artwork and artefacts. If the weather breaks, you can move out into the beautifully landscaped gardens and enjoy the views over the coastline.
AROS Centre
AROS is a great place to spend a rainy couple of hours. There is a play area for the kids, a restaurant, and often different workshops and exhibitions that the whole family can get involved in.
There are also lots of shops and places to eat in the towns and villages, different tours, and other activities and museums all over the island. For a more detailed itinerary, or for one tailored to you and your family's interests, contact me and I can help you plan.
So there you have it!! Skye has so much to offer for all ages and abilities. From climbing the Cuillins, to taking a stroll along a beach, even with tiny children it's possible to get out there and explore and enjoy the great outdoors.
Let me know what your thoughts are, and what you love doing with your kids on Skye.
Tioraidh!
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