Old Ruins near Portree on the Isle of Skye
Discover the haunting Old Ruins near Portree, where ancient history and rugged coastal beauty converge on the Isle of Skye.
Nestled along the A855 near Portree, the Old Ruins offer a glimpse into the Isle of Skye’s rich historical tapestry. These evocative remains, perched on rugged coastal terrain, hint at centuries of human activity from prehistoric times through clan conflicts. Visitors can explore the atmospheric site surrounded by dramatic sea views and steep cliffs, reflecting Skye’s layered past of ancient settlements, medieval fortifications, and fishing heritage.
A brief summary to Old Ruins
- A855, IV51, Portree, GB
- Duration: 0.5 to 2 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 3 out of 5
Local tips
- Wear sturdy footwear as the terrain around the ruins is uneven and can be slippery, especially near the cliffs.
- Visit in clear weather for the best views of the coastline and surrounding sea from the ruins.
- Combine your visit with nearby historic sites like Duntulm Castle and Portree Harbour for a fuller experience of Skye’s heritage.
- Bring a camera to capture the dramatic landscapes and atmospheric ruins, especially during golden hour.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Bus
Take the local bus service from Portree town center to the A855 route near the ruins, with a travel time of approximately 15-20 minutes. Services run several times daily but check schedules in advance as frequency varies seasonally. No direct stops at the ruins; a short walk on uneven ground is required.
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Car
Drive from Portree via the A855 road, taking about 10 minutes. Limited roadside parking is available near the ruins, but spaces are few and the area is not developed for large vehicles. Suitable for visitors comfortable with walking on rough terrain from parking to the site.
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Walking
For active visitors, a scenic walk from Portree town center to the ruins takes around 1.5 to 2 hours along coastal paths and minor roads. The route involves uneven surfaces and some inclines, so appropriate footwear and fitness are recommended.
Old Ruins 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 Old Ruins
Echoes of Ancient Settlements on Skye’s Coast
The Old Ruins near Portree stand as silent witnesses to a long continuum of human presence on the Isle of Skye. Archaeological evidence from the region reveals occupation dating back to the Early Bronze Age, with stone tools and pottery fragments suggesting even earlier Neolithic activity. The ruins likely overlay earlier fortifications, possibly including prehistoric duns or brochs—circular defensive towers common in northern Scotland—used by early inhabitants to watch over the sea and protect their communities.Medieval Clans and Castle Remnants
In the medieval period, this area was shaped by the fierce rivalries of Scottish clans, notably the MacLeods and MacDonalds. Nearby castles such as Duntulm, built in the 14th and 15th centuries, reflect the strategic importance of this coastal landscape. The Old Ruins may include remnants related to these clan conflicts, with stone structures perched on basalt promontories overlooking the sea, offering natural defense and commanding views. Over time, many such sites were abandoned or repurposed, leaving evocative ruins that tell of a turbulent past.A Maritime Heritage Interwoven with the Land
Portree’s proximity to the ruins underscores the town’s historical role as a vital fishing and trading hub. The coastline around the ruins once hosted salmon fishing stations and fishermen’s bothies—simple shelters for workers. The sea shaped local livelihoods for centuries, and the ruins’ location near the shore connects visitors to this maritime heritage, where the rhythms of tides and fishing seasons influenced community life.Atmosphere and Visitor Experience
Visiting the Old Ruins offers a contemplative experience amid Skye’s rugged natural beauty. The site’s elevated position provides sweeping panoramas of the surrounding cliffs and sea, inviting reflection on the passage of time and the resilience of those who lived here. The ruins themselves, weathered by centuries of Atlantic winds, evoke a sense of mystery and discovery. This spot is ideal for travelers interested in history, archaeology, and scenic coastal landscapes.Preservation and Significance
While not formally claimed or extensively developed as a tourist site, the Old Ruins contribute to the Isle of Skye’s rich cultural heritage. They form part of a network of historical landmarks that illustrate the island’s layered past—from prehistoric times through clan wars to modern-day Portree. The ruins remind visitors of the enduring human connection to this dramatic landscape and the importance of preserving such sites for future generations.Integration with Portree and Surrounding Attractions
Located just off the A855 near Portree, the ruins are accessible as part of a broader exploration of Skye’s northern peninsula. Nearby attractions include the colorful harbor of Portree, the Apothecary’s Tower, and other historic sites like Duntulm Castle. Together, these landmarks provide a rich context for understanding the island’s history and culture, making the Old Ruins a meaningful stop on any itinerary through this scenic and storied region.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Old Ruins
0.0 km
Discover the haunting Old Ruins near Portree, where ancient history and rugged coastal beauty converge on the Isle of Skye.
Clan MacLeod Memorial Cairn
24.5 km
A windswept stone cairn on Skye’s east coast, honoring the legacy of Clan MacLeod and their deep roots in the Hebrides.
Clachan Erisco Standing stones, Borve, Isle of Skye
25.7 km
Discover the timeless mystery of Clachan Erisco Standing Stones, where ancient history meets Skye’s wild coastal beauty.
Ardmore Arches
27.1 km
Discover the rugged beauty of Ardmore Arches, striking natural sea arches on Skye’s wild Waternish Peninsula.
Eilean Glas Lighthouse
29.1 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.
Iron age broch
33.4 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
34.4 km
Discover Dun Osdale, an ancient Iron Age fort on Skye where history meets faerie legend amidst rugged coastal beauty.
Harris House
39.1 km
Discover the perfect blend of care and natural beauty at Harris House in the enchanting Isle of Harris.
Neist Point Lighthouse
41.9 km
Iconic lighthouse on Skye’s westernmost point, framed by dramatic cliffs and rich wildlife, perfect for stunning coastal views and serene walks.
Pairc an t-Srath Guest House
46.6 km
Charming guest house on Isle of Harris with stunning sea views, warm hospitality, and delicious home-cooked meals near beautiful beaches.
Temple Harris
48.9 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.
Sound of Harris
50.5 km
A dramatic eight-mile maritime passage through Scotland's remote Outer Hebrides, where tidal waters and rocky islands create an unforgettable crossing.
Cravadale
58.6 km
Experience the majestic beauty of Cravadale on the Isle of Harris, a scenic point perfect for nature lovers and photographers seeking stunning landscapes.
Attadale Gardens
58.7 km
Discover the enchanting beauty of Attadale Gardens, a serene escape in the Scottish Highlands with lush landscapes and stunning views.
Kylerhea Minor Lighthouse
61.5 km
Historic 19th-century octagonal lighthouse overlooking the narrow Kyle Rhea strait, offering stunning coastal views and maritime heritage on the Isle of Skye.
Unmissable attractions to see
An Corran Beach
6.6 km
Discover An Corran Beach’s ancient dinosaur footprints and breathtaking Highland scenery on the Isle of Skye’s rugged northeast coast.
Skye Monkstadt 1745 Restaurant with Rooms
9.5 km
Historic Clan McDonald lodge offering luxurious suites, exquisite local cuisine, and breathtaking Skye views in a serene, remote setting.
Castle Ewen
11.4 km
Discover Castle Ewen, the natural basalt fortress of Fairy Glen, where ancient geology meets enchanting landscapes on the Isle of Skye.
The Brother's Point
13.3 km
Explore the dramatic cliffs, ancient dinosaur footprints, and panoramic sea views of Isle of Skye’s hidden coastal treasure.
Croc Rock
13.3 km
Discover Millport’s beloved Croc Rock, a century-old painted stone crocodile that charms visitors on the scenic Isle of Cumbrae beach.
An leth-allt view point
14.9 km
Experience Skye’s breathtaking Lealt Gorge and historic coastal views at An Leth-Allt View Point near Portree.
Rigg Viewpoint
17.4 km
Experience breathtaking panoramic views of Scotland’s rugged coastline and islands from the tranquil Rigg Viewpoint on the Isle of Skye.
Bearreaig Bay
21.7 km
Secluded Jurassic fossil bay with dramatic cliffs, peaceful pebble beach, and rich natural and industrial heritage on the Isle of Skye.
Loch Fada
25.2 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
25.4 km
Explore St. Columba’s Isle, a sacred burial ground and historic ecclesiastical site embodying centuries of Skye’s spiritual heritage.
Scalpay Bothy
29.2 km
A peaceful stone shelter beside Eilean Glas Lighthouse, blending heritage, marine conservation, and tranquil coastal views on Isle of Scalpay.
Colour House Viewpoint
30.3 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
30.5 km
Portree, Isle of Skye’s charming harbour town, blends vibrant local culture with breathtaking mountain and sea views.
The Lump
30.6 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
31.4 km
Discover artisan candles, delicious pizza, and cultural events at Portree’s vibrant Isle of Skye Candle Co. Visitor Centre.
Essential places to dine
SKYE Restaurant
2.3 km
Historic Victorian lodge on Isle of Skye’s northern coast with stunning sea views, refined dining, and access to iconic Highland landscapes.
Loch Bay Restaurant
25.5 km
Intimate Michelin-starred seafood dining in a cozy cottage overlooking the stunning waters of Loch Bay on the Isle of Skye.
The View Restaurant
30.1 km
Savor exquisite Scottish cuisine with breathtaking harbor views at The View Restaurant, Portree’s premier dining destination on the Isle of Skye.
Cuchullin Restaurant
30.2 km
Experience the freshest Scottish seafood in the heart of Portree’s lively Somerled Square at Cuchullin Restaurant.
Antlers Bar and Grill
30.3 km
A welcoming Highland pub and grill in Portree, serving fresh local seafood, Highland beef, and inclusive menus with lively live music.
The Caledonian Cafe
30.3 km
Cozy cafe in Portree offering hearty local breakfast and lunch with friendly service and a welcoming atmosphere on the Isle of Skye.
Scorrybreac Restaurant
30.3 km
Elegant small plates and innovative Scottish cuisine with a French twist, set above Portree harbour on the scenic Isle of Skye.
Tianavaig Restaurant
30.3 km
A friendly, casual restaurant in Portree serving classic Scottish dishes with fresh local ingredients and warm hospitality.
Sea Breezes
30.5 km
Intimate harbourfront seafood restaurant showcasing Skye's finest local catches with contemporary technique
Gasta Port Righ
31.4 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 Dunvegan, Isle of Skye
32.8 km
Cozy Argentinian-inspired fire-cooked dining and charming lodging in the heart of Dunvegan, Isle of Skye.
The Bistro at Atholl House Skye
32.9 km
Cozy dining with seasonal Scottish fare and warm hospitality in the heart of Dunvegan, Isle of Skye.
Old School Restaurant
32.9 km
Historic family-run restaurant in Dunvegan serving fresh local seafood and Scottish fare with warm hospitality and a cozy atmosphere.
North Harbour Bistro
32.9 km
Exquisite seafood dining with stunning harbour views and warm island hospitality on the Isle of Scalpay.
The Three Chimneys and The House Over-by
34.3 km
A celebrated Isle of Skye restaurant and hotel blending local flavors with innovative cuisine in a stunning lochside setting.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Hendersons World
11.2 km
Explore Hendersons World in Uig for unique gifts, toys, and games that capture the spirit of Scotland.
Scottish Tablet from Isle of Skye - Highland Favours
21.8 km
Experience the rich, buttery sweetness of authentic Scottish tablet crafted with care on the Isle of Skye at Highland Favours.
Skye souvenirs
30.3 km
Authentic Isle of Skye souvenirs in a traditional black house setting, celebrating local craftsmanship and heritage in Portree.
ÒR
30.3 km
Discover exquisite handmade jewellery inspired by Skye’s heritage at ÒR, a charming boutique in the heart of Portree.
Isle of Skye Distillers
30.3 km
Discover the heart of Skye’s craft spirits with Misty Isle Gin, immersive gin-making, and a vibrant shop in Portree’s center.
Cuillin Crafts
30.3 km
Authentic island craftsmanship and locally made treasures in the heart of Portree.
Home in the Highlands Portree
30.3 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.
Tippecanoe
30.3 km
Discover unique Scottish crafts and fair-trade treasures in the heart of Portree’s vibrant main street.
Skye Batiks
30.3 km
Discover vibrant Celtic batiks and handloomed textiles crafted with passion in the heart of Portree on the Isle of Skye.
Isle of Skye Crafts @ Over the Rainbow
30.3 km
Discover authentic Isle of Skye crafts and unique handmade treasures in the heart of Portree’s vibrant harbour town.
LT Crafts
31.6 km
Discover unique craft supplies and inspiring novelty items in the heart of the Scottish Highlands at LT Crafts.
Fasgadh Stores
32.8 km
Your friendly village shop in Dunvegan, offering local produce, essentials, and a warm welcome on the Isle of Skye.
Harris with Love
33.7 km
Discover authentic Hebridean artistry and handcrafted treasures at Harris with Love, a charming boutique in Scalpay on the Isle of Harris.
Harris Tweed and Knitwear
34.7 km
Authentic handwoven Harris Tweed products crafted in the Outer Hebrides, blending heritage, quality, and island tradition.
Gairloch Gifts
35.3 km
Discover authentic Scottish crafts and heartfelt souvenirs at Gairloch Gifts, your charming Highland stop on the scenic North Coast 500.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Ferry Inn
11.1 km
A stylish 19th-century inn in Uig offering cozy rooms, exceptional local cuisine, and stunning views over Skye’s northern bay.
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 Isles Inn
30.2 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.
Merchant Bar
30.3 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
30.3 km
An intimate cocktail and whisky bar with stunning Portree Harbour views, blending classic recipes with Hebridean flavors on the Isle of Skye.
West Highlands Bar
30.3 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
30.4 km
Historic church-turned-pub in Portree offering local ales, live music, and authentic Scottish hospitality in a charming, lively setting.
The Badachro Inn
32.9 km
Coastal Highland inn renowned for fresh seafood, stunning bay views, and warm, rustic charm in the heart of Badachro.
The Auld Bridge Inn
33.9 km
A cozy Highland bar on Skye offering local drinks and scenic views, perfect for relaxing after exploring the island’s stunning landscapes.
Nanny's
41.3 km
Cozy cafe in Shieldaig serving homemade soups, local seafood, and fresh coffee in a charming Highland village setting.
The Old Inn & Waterfront Bunkhouse
42.5 km
Charming Scottish inn with stunning Loch Harport views, local cuisine, live traditional music, and cozy accommodation on the Isle of Skye.
Ardhasaig House Hotel and Restaurant
43.3 km
A tranquil Hebridean escape offering cozy rooms, exquisite local cuisine, and stunning mountain and sea views on the Isle of Harris.
Isle of Harris Brewery
45.4 km
Crafting island-brewed beers and fresh Hebridean fare in a lively waterfront taproom on the Isle of Harris.
The Bothy
45.5 km
A cozy pub and café in Leverburgh offering local ales, hearty meals, and warm island hospitality on the Isle of Harris.
Beinn Bar
47.8 km
Cozy up with Scotland’s finest whiskies, ales, and gins in a historic Highland bar nestled within The Torridon estate.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Skye Camanachd Social Club
30.1 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
34.9 km
Charming stone cottage hostel with sea views, cozy fires, kayak rentals, and warm hospitality on the scenic Isle of Harris.
The Scaladale Centre
45.2 km
A premier outdoor adventure centre and hostel on Isle of Harris, offering year-round activities and comfortable group accommodation in stunning Hebridean surroundings.
Red fox
62.7 km
Red Fox on the Isle of Lewis: Dive into a vibrant adult entertainment scene amidst breathtaking landscapes.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Waterfront
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Low Impact
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Leave-No-Trace Critical
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Nature Escape
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
