Just outside Portree, on the road towards the iconic Old Man of Storr, there’s a place that most people drive past… without ever realising what they’ve missed.
It’s called Untethered — a farm experience created by local farmer Andrew Banks.
And if you do stop, even just for a coffee, you might find yourself feeding Highland cows, chatting about island life, or stepping into a side of Skye that most visitors never see.
For me, it’s more than just a stop on the road — it’s a place that captures what Skye is really about: being out in the elements, embracing nature, and feeling part of the island.
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A Real Isle of Skye Farm Experience (Not a Tourist Attraction)
Untethered isn’t a staged experience. It’s real life on Skye.
Andrew was born and bred on Skye, a farmer first and foremost, and what he’s created here is something refreshingly simple — a place where people can connect with the land, the animals, and the rhythm of island life.
There’s no entrance fee. No barriers. No pressure.
You simply arrive… and experience it.
Visitors can meet the Highland cows, feed them using specially prepared feed provided on-site (nutrient-rich pellets designed for their health), and get up close in a way that feels completely natural.
It’s not unusual to see people standing quietly, hand outstretched, while one of these gentle animals leans in — a moment that tends to stay with you long after you’ve left.
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Highland Cows Up Close – One of Skye’s Most Memorable Moments
Highland cows are one of Scotland’s most iconic animals — but here, you don’t just photograph them from a distance.
You meet them.
You feed them.
You laugh when their long fringe covers their eyes.
You realise just how gentle they are.
Andrew often shares stories about the herd — from personalities to pregnancies — giving visitors a deeper understanding of what life as a farmer actually looks like.
It’s these conversations that turn a simple stop into something much more meaningful.
Coffee, Toasties & a Proper Skye Welcome
Right beside the fields sits a small coffee spot that perfectly complements the experience.
Fresh coffee.
Homemade sweet treats.
Simple, well-made toasties.
It’s the kind of place where you grab a coffee “for the road”… and end up staying longer than planned.
Inside, you’ll also find locally inspired merchandise — from Highland cow jumpers to hats and tote bags — small reminders of a place that feels authentic rather than commercial.
And that’s the key difference here.
Nothing feels forced.
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Beyond the Fence: The Experiences You Don’t See Coming
What makes places like Untethered even more special for me isn’t just what’s visible — it’s what can happen behind the scenes.
Because of my relationship with Andrew, there are moments that occasionally unfold which most visitors would never even know exist.
One day, while guiding guests through Skye, he had seen me out and about and called me to say, “We are shearing sheep down at the barn, come down.”
We took a slight detour… and suddenly found ourselves standing inside a working barn, watching skilled shearers move with speed and precision — a raw, fascinating glimpse into traditional farming life.
There were no crowds.
No tickets.
No signs.
Just a real moment — shared between locals and a handful of lucky travellers.
That’s the difference local connections make.
More Than a Stop: Accommodation on the Isle of Skye
Andrew’s work doesn’t stop at Untethered.
He’s also created a range of unique accommodation options in and around Portree — perfect for travellers looking to stay somewhere with character.
Shepherd’s Huts – Quiet, Cosy & Surrounded by Nature
Tucked away in peaceful surroundings, these huts offer a true escape.
Log burners, grazing animals nearby, and a sense of stillness that’s increasingly hard to find.
Stormy B&B – A Relaxed Stay in Portree
Located on Stormy Hill, this is a comfortable and welcoming base.
What makes it stand out is the flexibility — with food and essentials available throughout the day, giving guests that “home away from home” feeling rather than a rigid B&B schedule.
Portree Bay Cottage – Perfect for Families
A full house available to rent, ideal for families or groups wanting privacy while staying close to Portree.
It’s another example of Andrew creating spaces that feel personal rather than commercial.
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How Experiences Like This Shape My Tours
Anyone can drive to the Old Man of Storr.
Anyone can stop in Portree.
But not everyone gets access to places and moments like these.
This is where my tours are different.
It’s not just about the locations — it’s about the people behind them.
Through local relationships built over time, experiences like:
•Feeding Highland cows at Untethered
•Watching sheep shearing in a working barn
•Discovering places you’d never find alone
…become part of the journey.
These moments can happen on a 1-day, 2-day, or 3-day experience — it’s never scripted, and that’s exactly the point.
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Why Untethered Is a Hidden Gem on the Isle of Skye
In a place as popular as Skye, finding something that still feels undiscovered is rare.
Untethered is one of those places.
It’s simple.
It’s real.
And it’s rooted in the life of the island.
Whether you stop for a coffee, meet the cows, or experience something completely unexpected…
…it’s the kind of place that quietly becomes one of the highlights of your trip.
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Planning Your Visit (Or Letting the Road Lead You There)
If you’re travelling through Skye, keep an eye out as you leave Portree towards the Storr.
Better yet — let someone who knows the island take you there.
If you’re curious about experiencing places like Untethered, or want to build a journey around these kinds of moments, feel free to get in touch.
Whether it’s one of my set tours or a completely bespoke adventure starting from Inverness, Skye, Glasgow or Edinburgh…
…the best experiences on Skye are rarely the ones you plan in advance.