IT is a rugged jewel in Scotland's tourism crown, second only to Edinburgh for pulling crowds from across the globe to view its natural wonders.
Yet when the attractions of the misty Isle of Skye became too popular, it was declared 'full' by business owners fed-up with hordes of tourists clogging its single-track roads and crowding its iconic scenic spots.
Two years ago islanders said Skye had a limit after encountering congestion even at isolated spots during the summer months because of the swarms of visitors, leading business owners to speak out about congestion and the local police to ask that sightseers make sure they have accommodation before arriving.
And the backlash against tourists was felt round the world, with the US broadcaster CNN last year declaring the island a place to for holiday makers to avoid, saying that Skye's infrastructure had "creaked under the pressure" in 2017 with jams and gridlock on its narrow roads thanks to the influx of coaches and cars.
The Old Man of Storr
Lumbering campervans were said to be a chief problem, while grass verges alongside popular spots were strewn with parked vehicles from morning to night.
READ MORE: Strategy plea to help Skye cope with its tourism surge
The US media organisation also highlighted other problems, saying "Eventually, the residents of beautiful Skye said enough was enough after complaints of noise, overcrowding and even visitors urinating in public."
But now the news channel has performed an abrupt about-face, and urged its viewers to travel to the Scottish Hebrides - with Skye firmly back on the itinerary - in a list of the 19 must-see destinations for 2019.
CNN Travel Writer Franscesca Street said: “You might have heard stories about Scotland’s fine white sand dunes, turquoise waters, rugged mountains, crumbling castles – but nothing can prepare you for seeing the Hebridean Islands.
“The most famous of the lot, the Isle of Skye, makes it onto many travellers’ must-see lists, but the lesser-visited Lewis and Harris, the most northerly Outer Hebridean Island, also deserves to be there.
She added: “Each Hebridean island has its own distinctive vibe, but they’re all grounded in a similar small-town community spirit.
“On Islay, head to atmospheric Loch Finlaggan, the late medieval meeting place of the Lords of the Isles, the former rulers of the Hebrides.”
“The ride to the Isle of Barra is worth it to experience one of the world’s most picturesque plane landings, descending onto a stunning sandy beach.”
The view at Elgol
The popularity of Skye has been attributed to a number of factors, not least the island’s appearing as a backdrop in films and music videos. In the past decade, Skye has provided scenery for TV series Outlander and films The BFG, MacBeth, and Prometheus.
READ MORE: Skye sites may soon not be free
But it is mainly its world-class landscape and windswept locations, such as the Fairy Pools at Glen Brittle, the iconic sunset spot at Elgol and the Old Man of Storr rock outcrop, which visitors regard as unmissable.
Local MSP Kate Forbes, who was prompted to invite CNN to visit Skye in the hopes the broadcaster would reassess its verdict, welcomed the u-turn.
She said: “When the American news outlet first published a story recommending tourists did not visit Skye, I was utterly dismayed.
“For all the challenges that we face in remote and rural parts of the Highlands, the economy is fragile and small changes can have big impacts.
“Tourism is a vital driver of growth, creating jobs, generating income and keeping people local."
She added: “Yes, there have been frustrations – but these are isolated to certain areas – and it would be catastrophic if tourists were told not to come. I am pleased that CNN has changed its tune.”
Kate Forbes, MSP, at the Skye Bridge
CNN's list of 19 places to visit in 2019 also includes Hawaii, New York City, the Indian state of Kerala, the Oman desert, the Normandy coast and the Grand Canyon.
Last year's list of '12 destinations travellers might want to avoid' saw Skye blacklisted alongside Barcelona, which was also said to be too crowded, the Taj Mahal, described as polluted and crumbling, and the picturesque island of Santorini in Greece, criticised for its ethically dubious donkey rides and the number of tourists.
READ MORE: US newlyweds misjudge Skye's stormy weather
Other hotspots CNN urged people to steer well clear of included Venice, the Inca stronghold of Machu Picchu in Peru, Mount Everest and the Galapagos islands.
Chris Taylor, Regional Leadership Director at VisitScotland, said: “Skye and the Hebrides offer such a unique visitor experience that it is no wonder they have been chosen by CNN Travel amongst the top destinations in the world to visit this year.
"It’s the potent mix of stunning landscapes, rich history and heritage, inspiring culture and warmth of the people, which makes the islands the go-to place for the discerning traveller looking for an adventure in Scotland.”
The Fairy Pools
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