The Isle of Skye, and the adjacent area of Lochalsh, are home to a wealth of fascinating history, heritage, wildlife and activities of all kinds. The pinemarten, shown in the picture below, is one of Scotland's rarest mammals - pictured here at the Lodge at Christmas 2000. To help you make the most of your vacation, we recommend that you visit the best website about Skye, Lochalsh and Raasay at www.skye.co.uk.

The nearest food store, general merchant and post office is 2 miles away at Balmacara. The store is happy to offer a delivery service 6 days a week, except Sunday. Orders can be telephoned, faxed or sent my e-mail. Call McRae Jones Stores on 01599 566226 fax 01599 566341 or email www.mcraejonesstores@skye.co.uk

Other shops and services, including a supermarket, pharmacy, butcher, hardware store, bank, post office and other small shops are located at Kyle of Lochalsh, 5 miles away. This is also the location of the doctor, dentist, veterinary surgeon and the visitor information centre.

Plockton, 2 miles away, has a fine pub and several restaurants. One of the best for eating and drinking is the Plockton Hotel.

Other sites that may be of interest are:

• www.undiscoveredscotland.co.uk where you can discover the hidden delights of the country for yourself
• www.eileandonancastle.com which is, without doubt, Scotland's most romantic castle - only 10 miles away
• www.castles.org where you can explore all of Scotland's castles and their history
• www.rspb.org.uk where you can find out all about the country's birdlife and bird reserves
• www.nts.org.uk where you can find out more about the wide range of mountains, gardens and historic properties owned by the National Trust for Scotland, including Inverewe Gardens and the Balmacara Estate, which surrounds Duirinish
• www.otter.org features some of the special wildlife of the area
• www.bellajane.co.uk is where you can find out about one of the most wonderful boat trips in the area - from Elgol to Loch Coruisk on Skye, which includes seal sightings
• www.nwfrontiers.com has information about guided and non-guided walking trips in the Highlands and Islands
• www.scotland-info.co.uk also offers more information on the area and about Scotland in general
• www.visitscotland.com is the official national visitor information site for Scotland