Gesto Bay Viewpoint on the Isle of Skye
Discover sweeping coastal panoramas and tranquil natural beauty at Gesto Bay Viewpoint, a serene gem on the Isle of Skye.
Gesto Bay Viewpoint offers breathtaking panoramic views of the Isle of Skye’s rugged coastline, including the shimmering waters of Loch Bracadale and Loch Harport, framed by the dramatic Cuillin Hills. This serene vantage point is a favorite for photographers and nature lovers seeking to capture Skye’s wild beauty and ever-changing light.
A brief summary to Gesto Bay Viewpoint
- A863, Isle of Skye, IV56 8FX, GB
- Duration: 0.5 to 2 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 3 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 during late autumn or early spring for magical light and fewer crowds.
- Bring a camera to capture the dramatic views of the Cuillin Hills and sea lochs.
- Wear sturdy footwear if exploring the nearby coastal paths.
- Check weather forecasts as conditions can change rapidly on Skye.
- Combine your visit with nearby attractions like Bracadale and the Cuillin mountain range.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
- Trash Bins
Getting There
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Car
Driving from Portree, the Isle of Skye’s main town, takes approximately 30 to 40 minutes via the A863. Parking is available near the viewpoint, but spaces may be limited during peak seasons. No parking fees apply.
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Bus
Local bus services connect Portree to nearby villages such as Bracadale, with a stop within walking distance of Gesto Bay Viewpoint. Service frequency is limited, typically a few times per day, and tickets cost around £5-£8 one way.
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Walking
For those staying nearby, a scenic 30-minute walk from Bracadale village leads to the viewpoint via well-maintained rural paths. Terrain is mostly flat but can be uneven in places; suitable for most fitness levels.
Gesto Bay 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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Cold Weather
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Gesto Bay Viewpoint
A Window to Skye's Majestic Coastal Landscape
Perched along the A863 on the Isle of Skye, Gesto Bay Viewpoint is a compact yet spectacular spot that commands sweeping views over Gesto Bay, Loch Bracadale, and Loch Harport. The vista stretches across tranquil sea lochs and rugged hills, with the iconic Cuillin mountain range forming a dramatic backdrop. The interplay of water, hills, and sky creates a dynamic landscape that shifts with the seasons and weather, from misty mornings to golden sunsets.The Natural Character and Atmosphere of Gesto Bay
This viewpoint is renowned for its peaceful and unspoiled atmosphere, making it a perfect place for quiet contemplation or photography. The surrounding area is a mix of coastal moorland and rocky shoreline, where seabirds and occasional wildlife add life to the scene. The light here, especially in late autumn, casts magical patterns on the hillsides, enhancing the natural palette of blues, greens, and earth tones.Historical and Cultural Context of the Area
While Gesto Bay Viewpoint itself is primarily a natural attraction, it sits within a landscape rich with Gaelic heritage and crofting history. The nearby villages and hamlets reflect centuries of Highland life, and the viewpoint offers a sense of connection to the island’s cultural roots through its timeless scenery.Visitor Experience and Seasonal Highlights
Visitors often come here to enjoy the calm and the views, especially during the quieter shoulder seasons when the light is softer and the crowds are fewer. The viewpoint is accessible year-round, though weather can be changeable. In summer, the area buzzes with wildlife and vibrant greenery, while winter brings stark, moody vistas. Photographers prize this spot for sunrise and sunset shots, capturing the shifting colors over the bay and hills.Nearby Attractions and Complementary Sights
Gesto Bay Viewpoint is conveniently located near other scenic highlights on Skye, including the famous Cuillin Hills for hiking enthusiasts and the charming village of Bracadale. The area also offers access to coastal walks and other viewpoints, making it an excellent base for exploring the island’s natural beauty.Preservation and Accessibility
The viewpoint is maintained as a natural, low-impact site with minimal infrastructure, preserving its tranquil character. It is easily accessible by car and suitable for visitors seeking a peaceful encounter with Skye’s landscape without strenuous hiking. Facilities nearby are limited, emphasizing the site’s raw and authentic appeal.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Iron age broch
8.8 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
14.5 km
Discover Dun Osdale, an ancient Iron Age fort on Skye where history meets faerie legend amidst rugged coastal beauty.
Clachan Erisco Standing stones, Borve, Isle of Skye
14.9 km
Discover the timeless mystery of Clachan Erisco Standing Stones, where ancient history meets Skye’s wild coastal beauty.
Neist Point Lighthouse
24.6 km
Iconic lighthouse on Skye’s westernmost point, framed by dramatic cliffs and rich wildlife, perfect for stunning coastal views and serene walks.
Ardmore Arches
26.9 km
Discover the rugged beauty of Ardmore Arches, striking natural sea arches on Skye’s wild Waternish Peninsula.
Clan MacLeod Memorial Cairn
28.8 km
A windswept stone cairn on Skye’s east coast, honoring the legacy of Clan MacLeod and their deep roots in the Hebrides.
Old Ruins
38.1 km
Discover the haunting Old Ruins near Portree, where ancient history and rugged coastal beauty converge on the Isle of Skye.
Kylerhea Minor Lighthouse
46.0 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
53.9 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
58.5 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.
Sound of Harris
61.9 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
64.2 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.
Harris House
65.8 km
Discover the perfect blend of care and natural beauty at Harris House in the enchanting Isle of Harris.
Pairc an t-Srath Guest House
66.1 km
Charming guest house on Isle of Harris with stunning sea views, warm hospitality, and delicious home-cooked meals near beautiful beaches.
North Harris Eagle Observatory
75.9 km
Discover the awe-inspiring North Harris Eagle Observatory, a nature reserve that offers mesmerizing views of golden eagles in the stunning landscapes of Isle of Harris.
Unmissable attractions to see
Amar River Viewpoint
0.7 km
Discover tranquil vistas and natural beauty at Amar River Viewpoint, a serene Highland escape on the Isle of Skye.
Dun Ardtreck
2.0 km
Explore Dun Ardtreck, a striking Iron Age fort perched on Skye’s rugged coast, blending ancient history with breathtaking Highland vistas.
Lou Lou Designs on Skye
6.0 km
Discover unique, handmade Harris Tweed handbags and accessories crafted with passion on the Isle of Skye’s scenic Carbostbeg.
Carbost Burn Waterfall
6.3 km
Discover the tranquil charm of Carbost Burn Waterfall, a serene and accessible natural cascade on the Isle of Skye.
Talisker Waterfall
7.3 km
Experience the stunning 60-meter Talisker Waterfall and serene Talisker Bay Beach, a natural gem on the Isle of Skye's rugged west coast.
Talisker Bay Beach
7.8 km
Discover Talisker Bay Beach, where dramatic cliffs, a towering waterfall, and a sea stack meet the wild beauty of Skye’s west coast.
Heath Falls
7.8 km
Discover the tranquil beauty of Heath Falls, a hidden waterfall nestled in the wild landscapes of the Isle of Skye.
Talisker Bay Stack
8.1 km
Dramatic cliffs, wind-blown waterfall, and golden sands where Skye's wild spirit meets the Atlantic.
Picnic bench
11.9 km
Discover the serene beauty of the Isle of Skye at the Picnic Bench, an idyllic spot for relaxation and breathtaking views.
St. Columba’s Isle
13.3 km
Explore St. Columba’s Isle, a sacred burial ground and historic ecclesiastical site embodying centuries of Skye’s spiritual heritage.
Isle of Skye Candle Co. Visitor Centre
13.7 km
Discover artisan candles, delicious pizza, and cultural events at Portree’s vibrant Isle of Skye Candle Co. Visitor Centre.
Allt Dubh View Point
13.7 km
Discover breathtaking mountain and river views framed by a historic stone bridge at Allt Dubh View Point on the Isle of Skye.
Bruach Na Frithe junction cairn
13.7 km
Serene gateway to the Black Cuillin’s rugged peaks, offering accessible hiking and breathtaking Highland panoramas.
Fairy Pools
13.8 km
Discover the magical waterfalls and crystal-clear pools of Skye’s Fairy Pools, set beneath the dramatic Black Cuillin mountains.
Giant Angus MacAskill Museum
14.5 km
Discover the life and legend of Angus MacAskill, the tallest true giant, in a charming Highland croft museum on the Isle of Skye.
Essential places to dine
Gasta Port Righ
13.7 km
A vibrant pizzeria and artisan candle hub blending local flavors, crafts, and culture in the heart of Portree on the Isle of Skye.
Old School Restaurant
13.9 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
14.0 km
Cozy dining with seasonal Scottish fare and warm hospitality in the heart of Dunvegan, Isle of Skye.
Antlers Bar and Grill
14.6 km
A welcoming Highland pub and grill in Portree, serving fresh local seafood, Highland beef, and inclusive menus with lively live music.
The Dunvegan, Isle of Skye
14.7 km
Cozy Argentinian-inspired fire-cooked dining and charming lodging in the heart of Dunvegan, Isle of Skye.
Cuchullin Restaurant
14.7 km
Experience the freshest Scottish seafood in the heart of Portree’s lively Somerled Square at Cuchullin Restaurant.
The Caledonian Cafe
14.7 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
14.7 km
Intimate harbourfront seafood restaurant showcasing Skye's finest local catches with contemporary technique
Tianavaig Restaurant
14.7 km
A friendly, casual restaurant in Portree serving classic Scottish dishes with fresh local ingredients and warm hospitality.
Scorrybreac Restaurant
14.8 km
Elegant small plates and innovative Scottish cuisine with a French twist, set above Portree harbour on the scenic Isle of Skye.
Seumas' Bar
15.1 km
Experience authentic Scottish cuisine at Seumas' Bar on the Isle of Skye—where local flavors meet stunning views.
The View Restaurant
15.3 km
Savor exquisite Scottish cuisine with breathtaking harbor views at The View Restaurant, Portree’s premier dining destination on the Isle of Skye.
The Three Chimneys and The House Over-by
17.9 km
A celebrated Isle of Skye restaurant and hotel blending local flavors with innovative cuisine in a stunning lochside setting.
The Noost
17.9 km
Charming waterside takeaway café in Sconser offering superb coffee, homemade cakes, and scenic outdoor seating by the Raasay ferry terminal.
Loch Bay Restaurant
21.3 km
Intimate Michelin-starred seafood dining in a cozy cottage overlooking the stunning waters of Loch Bay on the Isle of Skye.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Anna Eastwood Jewellery
3.4 km
Discover handcrafted jewellery inspired by the rugged beauty and heritage of the Isle of Skye at Anna Eastwood Jewellery in Fiscavaig.
Carbost Community Shop
5.9 km
A welcoming community-run shop offering local and vegan delights in the heart of Carbost, Isle of Skye’s charming village life.
Isle of Skye Aromatics
7.6 km
Discover authentic Highland scents and handmade gifts at Isle of Skye Aromatics in charming Carbost.
Fasgadh Stores
14.5 km
Your friendly village shop in Dunvegan, offering local produce, essentials, and a warm welcome on the Isle of Skye.
Home in the Highlands Portree
14.6 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.
Skye Batiks
14.6 km
Discover vibrant Celtic batiks and handloomed textiles crafted with passion in the heart of Portree on the Isle of Skye.
Isle of Skye Distillers
14.7 km
Discover the heart of Skye’s craft spirits with Misty Isle Gin, immersive gin-making, and a vibrant shop in Portree’s center.
Tippecanoe
14.7 km
Discover unique Scottish crafts and fair-trade treasures in the heart of Portree’s vibrant main street.
Skye souvenirs
14.7 km
Authentic Isle of Skye souvenirs in a traditional black house setting, celebrating local craftsmanship and heritage in Portree.
ÒR
14.7 km
Discover exquisite handmade jewellery inspired by Skye’s heritage at ÒR, a charming boutique in the heart of Portree.
Isle of Skye Crafts @ Over the Rainbow
14.7 km
Discover authentic Isle of Skye crafts and unique handmade treasures in the heart of Portree’s vibrant harbour town.
Cuillin Crafts
14.7 km
Authentic island craftsmanship and locally made treasures in the heart of Portree.
GIFTSHOP
23.3 km
Discover authentic Scottish crafts and warm hospitality at Triskele Gift Shop, a charming retreat near Neist Point on the Isle of Skye.
Kelpie Gallery & Gift Shop
24.0 km
Discover authentic Scottish artistry and handcrafted treasures from Isle of Skye's creative community.
Scottish Tablet from Isle of Skye - Highland Favours
26.9 km
Experience the rich, buttery sweetness of authentic Scottish tablet crafted with care on the Isle of Skye at Highland Favours.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Old Inn & Waterfront Bunkhouse
5.8 km
Charming Scottish inn with stunning Loch Harport views, local cuisine, live traditional music, and cozy accommodation on the Isle of Skye.
The Auld Bridge Inn
13.2 km
A cozy Highland bar on Skye offering local drinks and scenic views, perfect for relaxing after exploring the island’s stunning landscapes.
The Isles Inn
14.6 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.
West Highlands Bar
14.6 km
Cozy Highland pub in Portree offering local whiskies, Isle of Skye brews, live music, and a warm, inviting atmosphere year-round.
An Talla Mòr Eighteen Twenty
14.6 km
Historic church-turned-pub in Portree offering local ales, live music, and authentic Scottish hospitality in a charming, lively setting.
Merchant Bar
14.7 km
Experience authentic Isle of Skye hospitality with local ales, fine whiskies, and hearty Highland fare in the cozy Merchant Bar of Portree.
The Bar at Scorrybreac
14.8 km
An intimate cocktail and whisky bar with stunning Portree Harbour views, blending classic recipes with Hebridean flavors on the Isle of Skye.
The Stein Inn
21.3 km
Historic pub and hotel on Skye offering fresh seafood, cozy rooms, and stunning Loch Bay views in a charming coastal village.
The Ferry Inn
27.4 km
A stylish 19th-century inn in Uig offering cozy rooms, exceptional local cuisine, and stunning views over Skye’s northern bay.
Gabbro Bar
31.7 km
A cozy, dog-friendly local pub in Broadford serving Skye-inspired drinks, hearty snacks, and lively entertainment in a welcoming atmosphere.
The King Haakon Bar
41.4 km
A lively Scottish pub in Kyleakin offering fresh seafood, malt whiskies, live traditional music, and stunning views of the Skye Bridge.
Bar Am Praban
42.7 km
Cozy up with hearty Highland fare and fresh seafood in a welcoming pub setting on the scenic Isle of Skye.
Macnamara & Bothin Bar
43.7 km
A cozy bar in Ardvasar offering local whiskies, stunning Isle of Skye views, and warm Scottish hospitality in a rustic setting.
Nanny's
49.0 km
Cozy cafe in Shieldaig serving homemade soups, local seafood, and fresh coffee in a charming Highland village setting.
Rockvilla Hotel, Rooms, Restaurant & Bar - Lochcarron - NC500 Route
55.5 km
Charming Highland guest house with stunning loch views, excellent local cuisine, and warm hospitality on the NC500 route.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Skye Camanachd Social Club
13.7 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
60.5 km
Charming stone cottage hostel with sea views, cozy fires, kayak rentals, and warm hospitality on the scenic Isle of Harris.
The Scaladale Centre
75.2 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
97.7 km
Experience Fort William’s vibrant nightlife at Roobarb, the welcoming nightclub where music and dancing light up weekend nights.
Red fox
99.9 km
Red Fox on the Isle of Lewis: Dive into a vibrant adult entertainment scene amidst breathtaking landscapes.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Unique
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Viewpoints
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Low Impact
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Leave-No-Trace Critical
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Nature Escape
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
- Cultural Heritage
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
