The Isle of Skye is a little bit of heaven on earth if you enjoy history, scenery and outdoor pursuits. There is plenty for walkers, climbers and water sports enthusiasts - and if all you want to do is relax - you'll find Skye one of the most tranquil places on earth.

Driving to Skye takes you through the Scottish highlands at their most majestic - you pass through Glen Shiel with the glassy surface loch on your left - dominated by Eilean Donan Castle at the head of Loch Shiel - and with the spectacular slopes of the five sisters of Kintail to your right. Passing Kyle of Lochalsh and Plockton you soon reach the mighty sweep of the new Skye bridge. The bridge is now free to cross and gives wonderful views of the Minch and its rocky inlets. Once over the bridge your on Skye at last - the famous island of romantic mists and legend.

Skye's peninsulas and central mountain area offer you lots of different areas of interest - from true remoteness and seclusion, beach combing on deserted beaches, clan history, whisky distilling, crafts, castles and much more too.

The Island of Skye is also a major centre for Gaelic life and culture with a dedicated Gaelic college at the south end of the island. You'll see road signs written in both English and Gaelic all over the island and are likely to hear Gaelic spoken by the locals as their first language.

Take a trip to the Isle of Skye for a truly memorable and romantic vacation.

Gary Hill is a travel writer based in Scotland. You'll find great tips and advice for planning your european package vacation and a wideranging review of the best vacation websites