Skye is a place famous for its sweeping, fairytale landscapes and dramatic, almost-otherworldly rock formations. You’ve probably seen it featured as a movie location or backdrop to a high-end commercial. Visitors travel from across the globe to immerse themselves amidst the iconic jagged spires of The Storr and Quiraing. But, while these sights are popular attractions for a reason (they are truly spectacular), there is so much more of ‘The Misty Isle’ to be discovered if you step off the tourist trail.

Skye is a place of contrasts… a busy working island, both homely and wild all at once. Sometimes peaceful, sometimes bustling. It’s many things but never boring. Whether you want to taste local produce, find a secret hike, discover independent artists and makers or spot world-class wildlife there is just so much to do.

I’ve lived on Skye for a decade now and I’m still finding new things each week. Here’s an introductory guide to some of my favourite, lesser-known things to see and do around the island. I hope that they will serve as a springboard for you to explore Skye and discover your own ‘hidden gems’.

Stay curious, you never know what you’ll find around the corner…

By buying local you help to support our small community. There’s also no better way to immerse yourself in island life than meeting its artists and makers! Skye is bursting with creativity. From jewellers to knitters, photographers to painters, there is something for every taste…

Skyeworks, Raven Press and Aird Old Church are all independent galleries that showcase a range of contemporary artwork and gifts inspired by nature and the rugged beauty of Skye’s landscapes.

Many artists have home galleries or open studios and the best way to discover them is to simply keep your eyes peeled for signs whilst travelling around the island. Some even use honesty boxes for selling their artwork so look out for those too!

If you’re a knitter you mustn’t miss a visit to the Isle of Skye Natural Dye Co. Situated South of Staffin at the Glenview, maker Kirsty uses natural dyes sourced from local plants to create stunning yarns in shades both earthy and vibrant. In the shop you’ll find a range of lovely gifts and knitting supplies, from DIY kits to finished pieces -all made with Skye’s natural landscape in mind.

Another traditional craft can be found at Skyeskyns in Waternish, the last trading tannery in Scotland. They offer a fascinating tour that takes you behind the scenes to see how they process these otherwise-wasted skins and how they use modern ideas to make this historic craft more eco-friendly. Whether you’re looking for a sheepskin rug or just want to learn more about their unique process, this place is worth a visit.

For those who love clay and ceramics there’s a wealth of studios and workshops to visit. You can watch artisans hard at work at Edinbane Pottery and Quirky Clay or browse the striking pieces by Maggie Zerafa at her shop near Armadale Pier.

“If you don’t like the weather in Scotland, just wait five minutes!”

It’s a phrase used often because it’s true! Hebridean weather can be unpredictable and it often rains as much in summers as it does in winter. On the plus side it means that Skye is a land of rainbows, but it also means that it’s really important to be prepared for the weather to change at any moment.

Decent waterproofs can make the difference between a brilliant walk and a miserable one. But, with that said, sometimes even the hardiest outdoor enthusiast needs a day to dry out so here are some more ways to escape the wet weather…

Dry doesn’t mean dull and Ace Target Sports offers adventurous activities including axe-throwing, archery and shooting at their off-grid base just outside of Portree. With expert guidance and a friendly atmosphere it’s a really fun place to release your competitive side!

It’s not hard to imagine dinosaurs roaming the island and you can peep a glimpse of its prehistoric inhabitants by visiting the Dinosaur Museum near Staffin. This tiny museum is home to some world-class fossils and the knowledgeable staff are always keen to share their interesting stories and facts about Skye’s fascinating past.

Another hidden gem is the Museum of Island Life in Kilmuir. It’s a small, unassuming spot that many tourists miss, but it offers a fascinating glimpse into how islanders lived centuries ago. Walking through the traditional thatched cottages, you can almost feel the history seep through the stone walls. Visiting here will make you see Skye in a different way and it’s well-worth making time for.

Of course, these suggestions barely scratch the surface of what our beautiful island has to offer but use them as a starting point and you’ll soon create your own adventures. So take your time, talk to local folk and don’t rush.

Do this and you’ll soon discover that Skye has a soul far beyond the Instagram-worthy spots.

Katie Tunn is an artist and ocean advocate living in the North of Skye. She has collaborated with Talisker whisky to create a limited edition bottle ‘inspired by the sea’ and was their first ever artist-in-residence. When not in her studio she can usually be found somewhere on the shore.

You can follow Katie on Instagram at @KatieTunn (personal) or @katietunnart (artwork) or visit her website at www.katietunn.com.