The Isle of Skye

Skye’s main industry is tourism which is fairly seasonal as the population of the island can triple in the summer months. There is a plethora of hotels, bed and breakfasts, restaurants and pubs.

Crofting is under threat but in some areas of the island is still a way of life but the vast majority of islanders work full-time in other jobs. The public sector employs a lot of people on Skye with the Highland Council, Highlands and Islands Enterprise, Scottish Executive Environment and Rural Affairs Department, Scottish Natural Heritage and the Scottish Agricultural College all having offices in Portree. The private sector is also important with Portree boasting a number of small and large traders from small craft shops to large supermarkets.

The island also has a malt whisky distillery and a brewery. Fish farming on Skye has declined in recent years but still accounts for a substancial number of jobs.