Colour House Viewpoint, Portree: A Vibrant Harbour Panorama
Experience the iconic, colorful harbour views of Portree from the vibrant and lively Colour House Viewpoint on the Isle of Skye.
The Colour House Viewpoint in Portree offers a captivating panorama of the town’s iconic brightly painted houses lining the harbour. Set along Bosville Terrace, this viewpoint provides stunning views over Portree Bay, framed by fishing boats and the rolling hills of the Isle of Skye. Despite its modest setting beside a busy road, it remains one of the most photographed and cherished scenes on the island.
A brief summary to Colour House Viewpoint
- 9-1 Bosville Terrace, Portree, IV51 9DG, GB
- Duration: 0.25 to 1 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 12 am-12 am
- Tuesday 12 am-12 am
- Wednesday 12 am-12 am
- Thursday 12 am-12 am
- Friday 12 am-12 am
- Saturday 12 am-12 am
- Sunday 12 am-12 am
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning or late afternoon for the best natural light and fewer crowds.
- Be cautious of traffic as the viewpoint is beside a busy road without a pavement on one side.
- Parking near the viewpoint is limited; use public car parks in Portree town centre and walk.
- Bring a camera or smartphone to capture the vibrant houses and harbour activity.
- In summer, foliage may partially obscure views, so explore different angles for the best shot.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Public Bus
Local bus services connect Portree town centre with nearby villages and the Isle of Skye’s main attractions. From Portree bus station, it is a 5-10 minute walk to the Colour House Viewpoint. Bus fares typically range from £2 to £5 depending on the route, with frequent daily services during tourist season.
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Car
Driving to Portree and parking in one of the town’s public car parks is recommended, as no dedicated parking exists at the viewpoint. From central Portree, the viewpoint is a 5-minute walk. Parking fees range from free to around £3 per day depending on location. Roads are narrow and can be busy during peak season.
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Walking
The viewpoint is accessible on foot from Portree town centre within 10-15 minutes via paved streets and gentle inclines. The walk offers views of the town and harbour but requires some care crossing roads as pavements are limited near the viewpoint.
Colour House Viewpoint location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Windy Conditions
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Colour House Viewpoint
A Window into Portree’s Colourful Character
The Colour House Viewpoint is famed for its striking vista of Portree’s harbour lined with a row of vividly painted houses. These buildings, in hues of red, yellow, blue, and green, create a postcard-perfect scene that captures the quaint charm and maritime heritage of this Isle of Skye town. The viewpoint overlooks the bustling harbour where fishing boats and pleasure crafts bob gently on the water, set against a backdrop of softly rolling hills and distant mountains.Setting and Atmosphere Amidst Everyday Life
Located on Bosville Terrace, the viewpoint is a small, unassuming spot nestled beside a stone wall and the main A885 road. Visitors often find themselves standing near parked cars and bins, sharing the space with local traffic and pedestrians. Despite this humble setting and the lack of dedicated parking or formal viewing facilities, the vibrant colours and the harbour activity combine to create a lively and authentic atmosphere that reflects the daily rhythm of Portree’s community.Photographic Appeal and Seasonal Nuances
This viewpoint is a magnet for photographers and travellers eager to capture the quintessential image of Skye. The angle offers a sweeping panorama that is especially enchanting at sunrise or sunset when the light enhances the colours and casts reflections on the water. In summer, foliage around the viewpoint can partially obscure views, requiring some patience and creativity to find the best photographic frame. The viewpoint’s popularity means it can be busy, but the scene’s timeless beauty rewards the effort.Historical and Cultural Layers
Portree’s colourful houses are more than just visually appealing; they speak to the town’s fishing village roots and its evolution as a cultural hub on Skye. The bright colours were traditionally used to help fishermen identify their homes from the sea. Today, they symbolize the town’s vibrant spirit and are a beloved feature of its identity, drawing visitors from around the world to admire and celebrate this unique coastal community.Nearby Amenities and Visitor Experience
While the viewpoint itself is modest, Portree offers a range of amenities nearby, including cafes, restaurants, and accommodation options from boutique hotels to cozy B&Bs. Visitors can enjoy local seafood, explore artisan shops, or simply stroll through the town’s charming streets after taking in the harbour views. The viewpoint serves as a perfect introduction to Portree’s welcoming character and scenic beauty.Access and Practical Considerations
The viewpoint is easily accessible on foot from Portree’s centre, though parking near the viewpoint is limited and often requires using public car parks farther away. Visitors should be cautious of traffic as the viewpoint is adjacent to a busy road without a sidewalk on one side. Despite these practicalities, the Colour House Viewpoint remains a must-see for its iconic views and authentic island atmosphere.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Clachan Erisco Standing stones, Borve, Isle of Skye
5.5 km
Discover the timeless mystery of Clachan Erisco Standing Stones, where ancient history meets Skye’s wild coastal beauty.
Iron age broch
18.6 km
Explore a uniquely Scottish Iron Age broch perched above Portree, revealing ancient stone craftsmanship and commanding views of Skye’s dramatic landscape.
Dun Osdale
24.4 km
Discover Dun Osdale, an ancient Iron Age fort on Skye where history meets faerie legend amidst rugged coastal beauty.
Old Ruins
30.3 km
Discover the haunting Old Ruins near Portree, where ancient history and rugged coastal beauty converge on the Isle of Skye.
Ardmore Arches
31.5 km
Discover the rugged beauty of Ardmore Arches, striking natural sea arches on Skye’s wild Waternish Peninsula.
Clan MacLeod Memorial Cairn
32.0 km
A windswept stone cairn on Skye’s east coast, honoring the legacy of Clan MacLeod and their deep roots in the Hebrides.
Neist Point Lighthouse
35.8 km
Iconic lighthouse on Skye’s westernmost point, framed by dramatic cliffs and rich wildlife, perfect for stunning coastal views and serene walks.
Kylerhea Minor Lighthouse
37.1 km
Historic 19th-century octagonal lighthouse overlooking the narrow Kyle Rhea strait, offering stunning coastal views and maritime heritage on the Isle of Skye.
Eilean Donan Castle
43.3 km
Discover Scotland’s most iconic castle set on a tranquil island where history, nature, and legend converge in breathtaking Highland scenery.
Eilean Glas Lighthouse
56.2 km
A historic white lighthouse on the wild northern tip of the Isle of Scalpay, offering sweeping sea views and a taste of remote Hebridean life.
Harris House
65.0 km
Discover the perfect blend of care and natural beauty at Harris House in the enchanting Isle of Harris.
Sound of Harris
66.8 km
A dramatic eight-mile maritime passage through Scotland's remote Outer Hebrides, where tidal waters and rocky islands create an unforgettable crossing.
Temple Harris
67.8 km
A modern café and deli in Northton, Isle of Harris, serving great coffee, soups and local produce with stunning sea views across the bay.
Pairc an t-Srath Guest House
68.2 km
Charming guest house on Isle of Harris with stunning sea views, warm hospitality, and delicious home-cooked meals near beautiful beaches.
Glenfinnan Viaduct
75.2 km
Explore the enchanting Glenfinnan Viaduct, a marvel of engineering surrounded by stunning Scottish landscapes and rich history.
Unmissable attractions to see
Uig/Portree Isle of Sky
0.2 km
Portree, Isle of Skye’s charming harbour town, blends vibrant local culture with breathtaking mountain and sea views.
The Lump
0.3 km
Discover The Lump, a scenic hilltop in Portree with historic tower, panoramic views, and a rich Highland Games heritage.
Isle of Skye Candle Co. Visitor Centre
1.4 km
Discover artisan candles, delicious pizza, and cultural events at Portree’s vibrant Isle of Skye Candle Co. Visitor Centre.
Loch Fada
5.3 km
Discover the tranquil beauty of Loch Fada, a serene freshwater loch framed by the iconic Old Man of Storr on the Isle of Skye.
St. Columba’s Isle
8.2 km
Explore St. Columba’s Isle, a sacred burial ground and historic ecclesiastical site embodying centuries of Skye’s spiritual heritage.
Bearreaig Bay
9.8 km
Secluded Jurassic fossil bay with dramatic cliffs, peaceful pebble beach, and rich natural and industrial heritage on the Isle of Skye.
Allt Dubh View Point
11.9 km
Discover breathtaking mountain and river views framed by a historic stone bridge at Allt Dubh View Point on the Isle of Skye.
Sligachan Old Bridge
13.7 km
Historic 19th-century stone bridge with stunning Cuillin mountain views and legendary enchanted waters on the Isle of Skye.
Amar River Viewpoint
14.6 km
Discover tranquil vistas and natural beauty at Amar River Viewpoint, a serene Highland escape on the Isle of Skye.
Rigg Viewpoint
14.6 km
Experience breathtaking panoramic views of Scotland’s rugged coastline and islands from the tranquil Rigg Viewpoint on the Isle of Skye.
Gesto Bay Viewpoint
14.8 km
Discover sweeping coastal panoramas and tranquil natural beauty at Gesto Bay Viewpoint, a serene gem on the Isle of Skye.
Bruach Na Frithe junction cairn
16.0 km
Serene gateway to the Black Cuillin’s rugged peaks, offering accessible hiking and breathtaking Highland panoramas.
Lou Lou Designs on Skye
16.5 km
Discover unique, handmade Harris Tweed handbags and accessories crafted with passion on the Isle of Skye’s scenic Carbostbeg.
Carbost Burn Waterfall
16.7 km
Discover the tranquil charm of Carbost Burn Waterfall, a serene and accessible natural cascade on the Isle of Skye.
Dun Ardtreck
16.8 km
Explore Dun Ardtreck, a striking Iron Age fort perched on Skye’s rugged coast, blending ancient history with breathtaking Highland vistas.
Essential places to dine
Scorrybreac Restaurant
0.0 km
Elegant small plates and innovative Scottish cuisine with a French twist, set above Portree harbour on the scenic Isle of Skye.
Tianavaig Restaurant
0.1 km
A friendly, casual restaurant in Portree serving classic Scottish dishes with fresh local ingredients and warm hospitality.
The Caledonian Cafe
0.2 km
Cozy cafe in Portree offering hearty local breakfast and lunch with friendly service and a welcoming atmosphere on the Isle of Skye.
Sea Breezes
0.2 km
Intimate harbourfront seafood restaurant showcasing Skye's finest local catches with contemporary technique
Cuchullin Restaurant
0.2 km
Experience the freshest Scottish seafood in the heart of Portree’s lively Somerled Square at Cuchullin Restaurant.
Antlers Bar and Grill
0.2 km
A welcoming Highland pub and grill in Portree, serving fresh local seafood, Highland beef, and inclusive menus with lively live music.
The View Restaurant
0.5 km
Savor exquisite Scottish cuisine with breathtaking harbor views at The View Restaurant, Portree’s premier dining destination on the Isle of Skye.
Gasta Port Righ
1.4 km
A vibrant pizzeria and artisan candle hub blending local flavors, crafts, and culture in the heart of Portree on the Isle of Skye.
The Noost
12.0 km
Charming waterside takeaway café in Sconser offering superb coffee, homemade cakes, and scenic outdoor seating by the Raasay ferry terminal.
Seumas' Bar
13.7 km
Experience authentic Scottish cuisine at Seumas' Bar on the Isle of Skye—where local flavors meet stunning views.
North Harbour Bistro and Tearoom
20.9 km
Exceptional seafood dining with stunning harbour views on the tranquil Isle of Scalpay, blending local flavors and warm hospitality.
Old School Restaurant
23.0 km
Historic family-run restaurant in Dunvegan serving fresh local seafood and Scottish fare with warm hospitality and a cozy atmosphere.
The Bistro at Atholl House Skye
23.1 km
Cozy dining with seasonal Scottish fare and warm hospitality in the heart of Dunvegan, Isle of Skye.
The Dunvegan, Isle of Skye
23.6 km
Cozy Argentinian-inspired fire-cooked dining and charming lodging in the heart of Dunvegan, Isle of Skye.
Cafe Sia & Siaway
25.1 km
Charming island café serving fresh pizzas and quality coffee in a relaxed, friendly setting on the Isle of Skye.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Cuillin Crafts
0.1 km
Authentic island craftsmanship and locally made treasures in the heart of Portree.
Isle of Skye Crafts @ Over the Rainbow
0.1 km
Discover authentic Isle of Skye crafts and unique handmade treasures in the heart of Portree’s vibrant harbour town.
Tippecanoe
0.1 km
Discover unique Scottish crafts and fair-trade treasures in the heart of Portree’s vibrant main street.
ÒR
0.1 km
Discover exquisite handmade jewellery inspired by Skye’s heritage at ÒR, a charming boutique in the heart of Portree.
Skye souvenirs
0.2 km
Authentic Isle of Skye souvenirs in a traditional black house setting, celebrating local craftsmanship and heritage in Portree.
Isle of Skye Distillers
0.2 km
Discover the heart of Skye’s craft spirits with Misty Isle Gin, immersive gin-making, and a vibrant shop in Portree’s center.
Skye Batiks
0.3 km
Discover vibrant Celtic batiks and handloomed textiles crafted with passion in the heart of Portree on the Isle of Skye.
Home in the Highlands Portree
0.3 km
Discover authentic Highland crafts and souvenirs at Home in the Highlands Portree, a cozy gift shop nestled in the heart of Isle of Skye’s vibrant town center.
Isle of Skye Aromatics
14.2 km
Discover authentic Highland scents and handmade gifts at Isle of Skye Aromatics in charming Carbost.
Carbost Community Shop
15.8 km
A welcoming community-run shop offering local and vegan delights in the heart of Carbost, Isle of Skye’s charming village life.
Anna Eastwood Jewellery
18.0 km
Discover handcrafted jewellery inspired by the rugged beauty and heritage of the Isle of Skye at Anna Eastwood Jewellery in Fiscavaig.
Hendersons World
22.4 km
Explore Hendersons World in Uig for unique gifts, toys, and games that capture the spirit of Scotland.
Fasgadh Stores
23.5 km
Your friendly village shop in Dunvegan, offering local produce, essentials, and a warm welcome on the Isle of Skye.
Buzy Vee
25.4 km
Discover authentic Scottish crafts and quality sewing supplies in Broadford’s welcoming Buzy Vee gift shop.
The Blue Skye gift co.
25.5 km
Discover authentic Scottish gifts and enjoy great coffee in the heart of Broadford, Isle of Skye’s charming local treasure.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Bar at Scorrybreac
0.0 km
An intimate cocktail and whisky bar with stunning Portree Harbour views, blending classic recipes with Hebridean flavors on the Isle of Skye.
Merchant Bar
0.1 km
Experience authentic Isle of Skye hospitality with local ales, fine whiskies, and hearty Highland fare in the cozy Merchant Bar of Portree.
An Talla Mòr Eighteen Twenty
0.2 km
Historic church-turned-pub in Portree offering local ales, live music, and authentic Scottish hospitality in a charming, lively setting.
West Highlands Bar
0.2 km
Cozy Highland pub in Portree offering local whiskies, Isle of Skye brews, live music, and a warm, inviting atmosphere year-round.
The Isles Inn
0.3 km
A lively traditional pub and cozy inn in Portree, offering hearty Scottish fare, live folk music, and comfortable rooms in the heart of Isle of Skye.
The Auld Bridge Inn
3.7 km
A cozy Highland bar on Skye offering local drinks and scenic views, perfect for relaxing after exploring the island’s stunning landscapes.
The Old Inn & Waterfront Bunkhouse
15.7 km
Charming Scottish inn with stunning Loch Harport views, local cuisine, live traditional music, and cozy accommodation on the Isle of Skye.
The Ferry Inn
22.2 km
A stylish 19th-century inn in Uig offering cozy rooms, exceptional local cuisine, and stunning views over Skye’s northern bay.
Gabbro Bar
25.3 km
A cozy, dog-friendly local pub in Broadford serving Skye-inspired drinks, hearty snacks, and lively entertainment in a welcoming atmosphere.
The Stein Inn
25.5 km
Historic pub and hotel on Skye offering fresh seafood, cozy rooms, and stunning Loch Bay views in a charming coastal village.
The King Haakon Bar
31.8 km
A lively Scottish pub in Kyleakin offering fresh seafood, malt whiskies, live traditional music, and stunning views of the Skye Bridge.
Nanny's
34.4 km
Cozy cafe in Shieldaig serving homemade soups, local seafood, and fresh coffee in a charming Highland village setting.
Bar Am Praban
37.9 km
Cozy up with hearty Highland fare and fresh seafood in a welcoming pub setting on the scenic Isle of Skye.
Beinn Bar
41.7 km
Cozy up with Scotland’s finest whiskies, ales, and gins in a historic Highland bar nestled within The Torridon estate.
The Badachro Inn
42.2 km
Coastal Highland inn renowned for fresh seafood, stunning bay views, and warm, rustic charm in the heart of Badachro.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Skye Camanachd Social Club
1.4 km
Experience the vibrant social heartbeat of Portree at Skye Camanachd Social Club, where tradition meets lively nightlife on the Isle of Skye.
Number 5
59.9 km
Charming stone cottage hostel with sea views, cozy fires, kayak rentals, and warm hospitality on the scenic Isle of Harris.
The Scaladale Centre
73.1 km
A premier outdoor adventure centre and hostel on Isle of Harris, offering year-round activities and comfortable group accommodation in stunning Hebridean surroundings.
Roobarb
92.8 km
Experience Fort William’s vibrant nightlife at Roobarb, the welcoming nightclub where music and dancing light up weekend nights.
Red fox
92.9 km
Red Fox on the Isle of Lewis: Dive into a vibrant adult entertainment scene amidst breathtaking landscapes.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Scenic
- Lively
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Colorful Aesthetics
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Viewpoints
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Waterfront
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
