Loch Fada: Tranquil Jewel of the Isle of Skye
Discover the tranquil beauty of Loch Fada, a serene freshwater loch framed by the iconic Old Man of Storr on the Isle of Skye.
Loch Fada is a serene freshwater loch located just north of Portree on the Isle of Skye, Scotland. Known for its calm waters and stunning backdrop of the Old Man of Storr, it offers a peaceful escape for nature lovers, photographers, and anglers. Surrounded by lush greenery and rugged landscapes, Loch Fada provides excellent opportunities for walking, birdwatching, and capturing breathtaking reflections at sunrise and sunset.
A brief summary to Loch Fada
- Loch Fada, Portree, IV51 9HT, GB
- Duration: 1 to 3 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 at dawn for the best chance to capture stunning reflections of the Old Man of Storr on the loch’s calm waters.
- Bring binoculars for birdwatching, as the area hosts a variety of local bird species.
- Wear sturdy footwear if you plan to walk along the loch’s edges or explore nearby trails.
- Fishing is permitted; check local regulations and bring appropriate gear for a peaceful angling experience.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Car
From Portree, drive north on the A855 for about 5 km to reach Loch Fada. There is a small parking area near the loch. Parking is limited, so arrive early during peak seasons. No parking fees apply.
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Public Transport
Take the Stagecoach bus to Portree from other parts of the Isle of Skye. From Portree bus station, it is approximately a 30-minute walk north along the A855 to Loch Fada. Wear comfortable shoes and be prepared for uneven terrain.
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Walking
If staying in Portree, you can walk to Loch Fada via the A855 road. The walk covers roughly 5 km and includes some gentle inclines and rural road sections. Suitable for most fitness levels but not wheelchair accessible.
Loch Fada location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Clear Skies
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Mild Temperatures
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Windy Conditions
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Cold Weather
Discover more about Loch Fada
A Picturesque Setting on the Isle of Skye
Nestled on the Trotternish Peninsula, a few miles north of Portree, Loch Fada is one of the two Storr Lochs, alongside Loch Leathan. This freshwater loch is embraced by the dramatic landscapes of the Isle of Skye, with the iconic Old Man of Storr rock formation towering nearby. The loch’s calm waters often mirror the sky and surrounding hills, creating captivating reflections that enchant photographers and visitors alike.Natural Beauty and Wildlife
The area around Loch Fada is rich in natural beauty, characterized by lush greenery, rugged terrain, and diverse wildlife. Birdwatchers find the loch’s surroundings ideal for spotting various species, while anglers appreciate the tranquil fishing opportunities the loch provides. The peaceful atmosphere invites visitors to immerse themselves in the sounds of nature, from gentle water ripples to the calls of local birds.Photographic Opportunities and Scenic Views
Loch Fada is a favored spot for landscape photography, especially at dawn when the light softly illuminates the Old Man of Storr, and the loch’s surface is still enough to create perfect reflections. The small island within the loch adds a charming foreground element to shots of the towering pinnacles. Photographers and nature lovers often visit to capture the changing moods of the loch throughout the day and seasons.Recreational Activities and Visitor Experience
Visitors can enjoy leisurely walks along the water’s edge, taking in panoramic views of the Trotternish Ridge. The loch’s accessibility makes it a popular destination for day trips from Portree, offering a peaceful retreat from busier tourist sites. Fishing enthusiasts can engage in angling, while others may simply relax and picnic in the scenic surroundings.Accessibility and Surrounding Attractions
Loch Fada is easily reachable by car or on foot from Portree, with a small parking area nearby. The walk from Portree along the A855 offers beautiful vistas of the peninsula’s landscape. Its proximity to the Old Man of Storr makes it an excellent complement to visits to this famous landmark, allowing visitors to experience both dramatic rock formations and tranquil waters in one outing.Seasonal Highlights and Atmosphere
The loch’s atmosphere shifts with the seasons, from snow-dusted winter scenes to vibrant summer greenery. Clear skies provide spectacular sunrise and sunset views, while misty mornings add a mystical quality to the landscape. Loch Fada’s serene environment makes it a perfect spot for mindfulness, nature escapes, and quiet contemplation throughout the year.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Clachan Erisco Standing stones, Borve, Isle of Skye
4.1 km
Discover the timeless mystery of Clachan Erisco Standing Stones, where ancient history meets Skye’s wild coastal beauty.
Iron age broch
19.9 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
25.0 km
Discover Dun Osdale, an ancient Iron Age fort on Skye where history meets faerie legend amidst rugged coastal beauty.
Old Ruins
25.2 km
Discover the haunting Old Ruins near Portree, where ancient history and rugged coastal beauty converge on the Isle of Skye.
Ardmore Arches
29.7 km
Discover the rugged beauty of Ardmore Arches, striking natural sea arches on Skye’s wild Waternish Peninsula.
Clan MacLeod Memorial Cairn
29.7 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
36.4 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
39.8 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
45.1 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
51.8 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
60.8 km
Discover the perfect blend of care and natural beauty at Harris House in the enchanting Isle of Harris.
Sound of Harris
64.3 km
A dramatic eight-mile maritime passage through Scotland's remote Outer Hebrides, where tidal waters and rocky islands create an unforgettable crossing.
Pairc an t-Srath Guest House
64.8 km
Charming guest house on Isle of Harris with stunning sea views, warm hospitality, and delicious home-cooked meals near beautiful beaches.
Temple Harris
64.9 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.
North Harris Eagle Observatory
71.4 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
Bearreaig Bay
4.7 km
Secluded Jurassic fossil bay with dramatic cliffs, peaceful pebble beach, and rich natural and industrial heritage on the Isle of Skye.
Colour House Viewpoint
5.3 km
Experience the iconic, colorful harbour views of Portree from the vibrant and lively Colour House Viewpoint on the Isle of Skye.
Uig/Portree Isle of Sky
5.5 km
Portree, Isle of Skye’s charming harbour town, blends vibrant local culture with breathtaking mountain and sea views.
The Lump
5.6 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
6.6 km
Discover artisan candles, delicious pizza, and cultural events at Portree’s vibrant Isle of Skye Candle Co. Visitor Centre.
St. Columba’s Isle
7.3 km
Explore St. Columba’s Isle, a sacred burial ground and historic ecclesiastical site embodying centuries of Skye’s spiritual heritage.
Rigg Viewpoint
9.4 km
Experience breathtaking panoramic views of Scotland’s rugged coastline and islands from the tranquil Rigg Viewpoint on the Isle of Skye.
An leth-allt view point
11.9 km
Experience Skye’s breathtaking Lealt Gorge and historic coastal views at An Leth-Allt View Point near Portree.
Croc Rock
14.2 km
Discover Millport’s beloved Croc Rock, a century-old painted stone crocodile that charms visitors on the scenic Isle of Cumbrae beach.
The Brother's Point
14.3 km
Explore the dramatic cliffs, ancient dinosaur footprints, and panoramic sea views of Isle of Skye’s hidden coastal treasure.
Castle Ewen
16.0 km
Discover Castle Ewen, the natural basalt fortress of Fairy Glen, where ancient geology meets enchanting landscapes on the Isle of Skye.
Allt Dubh View Point
17.2 km
Discover breathtaking mountain and river views framed by a historic stone bridge at Allt Dubh View Point on the Isle of Skye.
Amar River Viewpoint
18.0 km
Discover tranquil vistas and natural beauty at Amar River Viewpoint, a serene Highland escape on the Isle of Skye.
Gesto Bay Viewpoint
18.3 km
Discover sweeping coastal panoramas and tranquil natural beauty at Gesto Bay Viewpoint, a serene gem on the Isle of Skye.
Sligachan Old Bridge
19.0 km
Historic 19th-century stone bridge with stunning Cuillin mountain views and legendary enchanted waters on the Isle of Skye.
Essential places to dine
The View Restaurant
5.0 km
Savor exquisite Scottish cuisine with breathtaking harbor views at The View Restaurant, Portree’s premier dining destination on the Isle of Skye.
Scorrybreac Restaurant
5.3 km
Elegant small plates and innovative Scottish cuisine with a French twist, set above Portree harbour on the scenic Isle of Skye.
Cuchullin Restaurant
5.3 km
Experience the freshest Scottish seafood in the heart of Portree’s lively Somerled Square at Cuchullin Restaurant.
The Caledonian Cafe
5.3 km
Cozy cafe in Portree offering hearty local breakfast and lunch with friendly service and a welcoming atmosphere on the Isle of Skye.
Antlers Bar and Grill
5.3 km
A welcoming Highland pub and grill in Portree, serving fresh local seafood, Highland beef, and inclusive menus with lively live music.
Tianavaig Restaurant
5.4 km
A friendly, casual restaurant in Portree serving classic Scottish dishes with fresh local ingredients and warm hospitality.
Sea Breezes
5.5 km
Intimate harbourfront seafood restaurant showcasing Skye's finest local catches with contemporary technique
Gasta Port Righ
6.6 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
16.9 km
Charming waterside takeaway café in Sconser offering superb coffee, homemade cakes, and scenic outdoor seating by the Raasay ferry terminal.
Seumas' Bar
18.9 km
Experience authentic Scottish cuisine at Seumas' Bar on the Isle of Skye—where local flavors meet stunning views.
SKYE Restaurant
23.1 km
Historic Victorian lodge on Isle of Skye’s northern coast with stunning sea views, refined dining, and access to iconic Highland landscapes.
Old School Restaurant
23.5 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
23.6 km
Cozy dining with seasonal Scottish fare and warm hospitality in the heart of Dunvegan, Isle of Skye.
Loch Bay Restaurant
23.9 km
Intimate Michelin-starred seafood dining in a cozy cottage overlooking the stunning waters of Loch Bay on the Isle of Skye.
The Dunvegan, Isle of Skye
23.9 km
Cozy Argentinian-inspired fire-cooked dining and charming lodging in the heart of Dunvegan, Isle of Skye.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Skye souvenirs
5.3 km
Authentic Isle of Skye souvenirs in a traditional black house setting, celebrating local craftsmanship and heritage in Portree.
ÒR
5.3 km
Discover exquisite handmade jewellery inspired by Skye’s heritage at ÒR, a charming boutique in the heart of Portree.
Cuillin Crafts
5.3 km
Authentic island craftsmanship and locally made treasures in the heart of Portree.
Isle of Skye Distillers
5.3 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
5.3 km
Discover unique Scottish crafts and fair-trade treasures in the heart of Portree’s vibrant main street.
Isle of Skye Crafts @ Over the Rainbow
5.4 km
Discover authentic Isle of Skye crafts and unique handmade treasures in the heart of Portree’s vibrant harbour town.
Home in the Highlands Portree
5.4 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
5.4 km
Discover vibrant Celtic batiks and handloomed textiles crafted with passion in the heart of Portree on the Isle of Skye.
Hendersons World
18.1 km
Explore Hendersons World in Uig for unique gifts, toys, and games that capture the spirit of Scotland.
Isle of Skye Aromatics
19.1 km
Discover authentic Highland scents and handmade gifts at Isle of Skye Aromatics in charming Carbost.
Carbost Community Shop
20.4 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
21.7 km
Discover handcrafted jewellery inspired by the rugged beauty and heritage of the Isle of Skye at Anna Eastwood Jewellery in Fiscavaig.
Fasgadh Stores
23.8 km
Your friendly village shop in Dunvegan, offering local produce, essentials, and a warm welcome on the Isle of Skye.
Scottish Tablet from Isle of Skye - Highland Favours
26.4 km
Experience the rich, buttery sweetness of authentic Scottish tablet crafted with care on the Isle of Skye at Highland Favours.
Buzy Vee
29.3 km
Discover authentic Scottish crafts and quality sewing supplies in Broadford’s welcoming Buzy Vee gift shop.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Isles Inn
5.3 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 Bar at Scorrybreac
5.3 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
5.3 km
Experience authentic Isle of Skye hospitality with local ales, fine whiskies, and hearty Highland fare in the cozy Merchant Bar of Portree.
West Highlands Bar
5.3 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
5.4 km
Historic church-turned-pub in Portree offering local ales, live music, and authentic Scottish hospitality in a charming, lively setting.
The Auld Bridge Inn
9.0 km
A cozy Highland bar on Skye offering local drinks and scenic views, perfect for relaxing after exploring the island’s stunning landscapes.
The Ferry Inn
17.8 km
A stylish 19th-century inn in Uig offering cozy rooms, exceptional local cuisine, and stunning views over Skye’s northern bay.
The Old Inn & Waterfront Bunkhouse
20.3 km
Charming Scottish inn with stunning Loch Harport views, local cuisine, live traditional music, and cozy accommodation on the Isle of Skye.
The Stein Inn
24.0 km
Historic pub and hotel on Skye offering fresh seafood, cozy rooms, and stunning Loch Bay views in a charming coastal village.
Gabbro Bar
29.3 km
A cozy, dog-friendly local pub in Broadford serving Skye-inspired drinks, hearty snacks, and lively entertainment in a welcoming atmosphere.
Nanny's
32.5 km
Cozy cafe in Shieldaig serving homemade soups, local seafood, and fresh coffee in a charming Highland village setting.
The King Haakon Bar
34.3 km
A lively Scottish pub in Kyleakin offering fresh seafood, malt whiskies, live traditional music, and stunning views of the Skye Bridge.
The Badachro Inn
38.1 km
Coastal Highland inn renowned for fresh seafood, stunning bay views, and warm, rustic charm in the heart of Badachro.
Beinn Bar
39.9 km
Cozy up with Scotland’s finest whiskies, ales, and gins in a historic Highland bar nestled within The Torridon estate.
Bar Am Praban
42.0 km
Cozy up with hearty Highland fare and fresh seafood in a welcoming pub setting on the scenic Isle of Skye.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Skye Camanachd Social Club
5.6 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
55.9 km
Charming stone cottage hostel with sea views, cozy fires, kayak rentals, and warm hospitality on the scenic Isle of Harris.
The Scaladale Centre
68.6 km
A premier outdoor adventure centre and hostel on Isle of Harris, offering year-round activities and comfortable group accommodation in stunning Hebridean surroundings.
Red fox
87.7 km
Red Fox on the Isle of Lewis: Dive into a vibrant adult entertainment scene amidst breathtaking landscapes.
Roobarb
96.4 km
Experience Fort William’s vibrant nightlife at Roobarb, the welcoming nightclub where music and dancing light up weekend nights.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Relaxing
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
- Vintage Styles
For the architecture buff
- Landmarks
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Sunrise Spots
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Eco-Friendly
- Low Impact
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Leave-No-Trace Critical
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Nature Escape
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Cultural Heritage
- Mindfulness
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Pet Friendly
