Skye
largest and most northerly large island in the Inner Hebrides of Scotland / From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
Skye is the largest and most northerly island in the Inner Hebrides of Scotland.[1] More than 9000 people live there, and half of the people speak Gaelic. The main settlement is Portree, known for its picturesque harbour.
The island has been occupied since the mesolithic period and has a colourful history. It was rule by the Norse for 400 years, then dominated by Clan MacLeod and Clan Donald. The Highland Clearances of the 19th century caused a decline in the population from over 20,000 to around 9,200 in the early 21st century. The population has risen 4% from the census of 1991.[2] The main industries are tourism, agriculture, fishing and whisky-distilling.
Skye is part of the Highland Council local government area and is now linked to the mainland by a road bridge.[3] The island is renowned for its spectacular scenery, vibrant culture and heritage, and its abundant wildlife, including the Golden Eagle, Red Deer and Atlantic Salmon.