Best lakes around Struan, a name found in various locations, often refers to the area around Struan on the Isle of Skye, Scotland. This region is characterized by its dramatic lochs and coastal scenery, offering diverse natural landscapes. The area provides opportunities for exploring both freshwater and sea lochs, set against a backdrop of mountains and rugged coastlines. Struan serves as a gateway to some of Scotland's notable lochs, making it a point of interest for outdoor enthusiasts.
Last updated: June 19, 2026
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Portree harbour lies deep in a sheltered bay, where colourful gables along the quay contrast with dark cliffs and the ever-changing light of Skye. Fishing boats, tour boats and the tide create a lively, almost cinematic backdrop. From the waterline, you look out towards the hills around Ben Tianavaig, which give the bay an intimate, natural embrace.
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The harbor of Portree is the heart of the main town of the Isle of Skye and decisively shapes the cityscape. Nestled in a sheltered bay, it serves both fishing boats and excursion ships and remains economically important to this day. The harbor is particularly known for the colorful houses on the promenade, which, together with the boats, form a picturesque panorama. The surrounding hills enhance the impressive backdrop. For visitors, the harbor is a central starting point for walks, boat trips, and experiencing the typically maritime atmosphere of Portree.
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A beautiful campsite with terraces. From the top terraces you have a beautiful view of the Kinloch. The town with its beautiful old cemetery and Dunvegan Castle are within walking distance.
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Lovely views of Isle Oronsay, Ullinish and in the distance MacLeods Table.
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The name “Kinloch” is derived from Scottish Gaelic, where “Ceann Loch” translates to “head of the loch.” This name is fitting as the campsite is located at the head of Loch Dunvegan, offering beautiful views and easy access to the loch.
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Mosquito free !!
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Nice spot to take pictures with all these stones and the black sand and rippels from the creek.
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Struan is situated on the shores of Loch Beag, an inlet of the larger Loch Bracadale, both sea lochs offering picturesque coastal scenery. Other notable lochs on Skye include freshwater Loch Leathan, known for its tranquil atmosphere and views of the Old Man of Storr, and the dramatic Loch Coruisk, nestled within the Black Cuillin mountains.
The area around Struan offers a diverse range of natural features. You can find dramatic coastal scenery, rugged mountains like the Black Cuillins, and tranquil freshwater lochs reflecting the sky. Talisker Beach, for example, provides stunning views from its cliffs, including MacLeods Daughters and Table.
Yes, several spots are suitable for families. Portree Harbour is a family-friendly settlement where you can enjoy the colorful harbor and find amenities. Talisker Beach is also listed as family-friendly, offering a chance to enjoy the coast. Additionally, Kinloch Campsite at Loch Dunvegan is a family-friendly facility with beautiful views.
The region offers a variety of outdoor activities. For cycling enthusiasts, there are routes like the 'Portnalong Pier – Talisker Beach loop' or 'Talisker Distillery – Peacock Farm loop'. Mountain biking is also popular, with routes such as 'Portree to Quairaing Pass loop'. For hikers, there are easy trails like the 'Path to Oronsay – Cliffs of Oronsay loop' near Ullinish. You can find more details on these activities in the Cycling around Struan, MTB Trails around Struan, and Easy hikes around Struan guides.
Yes, there are several easy hiking trails available. For example, you can explore the 'Path to Oronsay – Cliffs of Oronsay loop from Ullinish', which is an easy 4.5 km route. Another easy option is the 'Talisker Distillery – Talisker Distillery loop from Carbost', covering about 3.8 km. These trails offer accessible ways to experience the scenic beauty of the area. More easy hikes can be found in the Easy hikes around Struan guide.
Portree Harbour is the main town on the Isle of Skye and offers various amenities, including accommodation, a Co-op Food store, and an outdoor gear shop. It's also well-connected by bus. For camping, Kinloch Campsite at Loch Dunvegan provides beautiful views and is within walking distance of Dunvegan Castle.
Visitors particularly appreciate the stunning natural beauty and dramatic landscapes. Highlights like Talisker Beach are loved for their sunset views and cliff scenery. The vibrant atmosphere of Portree Harbour and the scenic vistas from View of Fiskavaig Bay are also highly rated by the komoot community.
Yes, the area is rich in viewpoints. View of Fiskavaig Bay offers lovely views of Isle Oronsay, Ullinish, and MacLeods Table. The cliffs at Talisker Beach also provide beautiful perspectives of the coastline. Additionally, Portree Harbour itself serves as a viewpoint, showcasing the colorful town and its surroundings.
Yes, Kinloch Campsite at Loch Dunvegan is a notable option. It's located at the head of Loch Dunvegan, offering beautiful views and easy access to the loch. The campsite features terraces, with the top ones providing particularly good vistas.
The Isle of Skye, including the Struan area, experiences a temperate climate. While specific 'best times' are subjective, the summer and autumn months generally offer milder weather and longer daylight hours, which are ideal for outdoor activities and enjoying the scenery. However, the dramatic landscapes are beautiful year-round, with each season offering a unique experience.
While the region is known for its dramatic lochs, specific designated wild swimming spots are not prominently highlighted for the immediate Struan area on Skye. Loch Coruisk, for instance, is remote and known for its 'inky blue' waters, making it more of a wilderness experience than a casual swimming spot. Always exercise caution and research local conditions if considering wild swimming.
The Struan area on the Isle of Skye features both sea lochs and freshwater lochs. Loch Beag and Loch Bracadale are examples of sea lochs, which are inlets of the sea. Freshwater lochs like Loch Leathan and the remote Loch Coruisk are also prominent, offering diverse aquatic environments and landscapes.


Still not found your perfect lake around Struan? Check out the guides of these regions to see even more beautiful places.