Scotland is renowned for its breathtaking landscapes, including the majestic Scottish Highlands and Loch Ness.
Tourists flock to the country to immerse themselves in its natural beauty and iconic attractions such as ancient castles. The nation is equally celebrated for its rich cultural heritage, boasting an array of whisky varieties, tartan kilts, bagpipes, and the traditional delicacy haggis.
While Scotland is often seen as a tranquil retreat from the hustle and bustle of England’s major cities, one woman has revealed the stark reality of living on the country’s most beloved island, the Isle of Skye. Spanning 50 miles, it’s the largest island in the Inner Hebrides, acclaimed for its dramatic scenery and charming fishing villages.
Niamh Mackinnon offers a glimpse into her island life through her TikTok and YouTube videos. In a recent TikTok update, the Scottish local remarked: “I live on the most popular island in Scotland and the reason we’re so popular is because of specific landscapes, one of them being the Old Man of Storr, so I thought today I would show you what it’s like at the height of summer because it might not be the picturesque, tranquil, peaceful dream that you are being sold online sometimes but we’ll see, let’s go.”
The Old Man of Storr, a large rock feature on the Trotternish Ridge, is reputed to be the most celebrated walk on the Isle of Skye. Preparing for her trip to the famed site, Niamh bundled up in several layers, put on some waterproof trousers, and laced up her walking boots.
As she arrived, she was greeted by rows of parked cars and dreary weather, prompting a craving for coffee before embarking on the trek to the Old Man of Storr. She said: “I’m not trying to just complain in this vlog but the midges are so bad. I need to get a move on and look how busy it is.”
As Niamh walked up to the rocky landmark, she faced dismal conditions with grey skies, rain, and fog, navigating a slippery, muddy path flanked by grass. The 22-year-old reflected: “I’m not even that old and there was a time when I was younger where you would come up here and know every single person that you passed. Tragic.”
Sitting amidst the bustle, she pondered: “I’m just sitting here like looking at how busy it is and everything and I don’t know, this is when I start to feel a bit like hypocritical or like bad about how much I post Skye online because it also makes me sad seeing this place so busy when I remember a time when it was so quiet and peaceful. And of course it’s nice for other people in the world to get to experience this and it’s on my doorstep so I don’t wanna be greedy but yeah, it’s a weird feeling to be honest.”
In her video, the famous rocky formation is barely visible through the thick fog. Ultimately, Niamh chose to conclude her video and head back down due to the wet conditions, crowds, and the obscured view of the Storr.
She pointed out that this is “just the reality of Skye sometimes.” Niamh’s TikTok video has racked up a staggering 2.4 million views alongside thousands of likes and comments.
A stunned viewer questioned: “This is…the HEIGHT of summer???” Another user related their own experience: “I know this weird feeling. It’s the same here in the Swiss alps.
“As a kid you knew almost everyone you met on a hike. Now it’s packed and most tourists don’t even say hello.”
Someone else expressed concern for the local area: “A lot of places seem to struggle with excessive tourism having a negative impact. Hope that a happy balance can be found for the area you live in.”