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Fair Isle: The remote Scottish island with spectacular scenery, bird watching and knitwear

Uk's most geographically remote inhabited island is fascinating, especially during winter.

Atlantic puffins are a common site on Fair Isle, Shetland. Getty Images

The guidebooks will tell you the best time to visit Scotland's Fair Isle is summer, when the golden beams of "da simmer dim" – which means “the twilight of a Shetland summer evening” – ensure more than 19 hours of sunlight.

But winter is a time unlike any other at Fair Isle , the most geographically remote inhabited island in the UK .

It’s when Mother Nature unleashes her blistering, raw power: tumultuous winds, crashing waves and stinging breezes. There are also barely six hours of light a day.

Named Fridarey, the “island of peace”, by Norse settlers, this tiny island – barely 5km long and 2.4km wide – is half-way between Orkney and Shetland.

Now owned by the National Trust for Scotland, it is famed for its birdlife, knitwear and historic shipwrecks.

The scenery at 60 degrees north is wild, stark and beautiful during the winter, and the deeply indented coasts, riddled with voes (fjords) and enclosed by steep hills come alive.

I watch the stunning sunset show as deep violets coalesce with warm oranges, and golden yellows blend into light pinks.

My genial host tells me that I could catch a glimpse of the stunning aurora borealis , locally called "mirrie dancers" (mirrie translates into blur), if I am lucky.

I gaze hard into the big, clear skies, but the shimmering dancers fail to show up.

Winters are mild on the isle despite it being so far north, only 644km south of the Arctic Circle, due to the Gulf Stream warming the surrounding sea. The temperature rarely drops below freezing, typically hovering around an average of 2°C.

The Force 5 wind, however, is strong and can be accompanied by powerful rain and gales. It feels even fiercer as trees are few and far between.

Shetland folklore says the stormy periods are caused by a battle between two gods, Da Sea Midder and Teran, vying to dominate the seasons.

For centuries, until the discovery of oil, the people of Fair Isle made a living from fishing and crofting. Life on the island, home to barely 50 people now, is far from easy, even in today’s connected times.

Getting there is an adventure. One can travel by sea or air (booking is essential), but disruptions can occur in any season because of high winds, fog and other weather disturbances.

Those landscapes and seascapes are so wild and dramatic, however, it makes islanders content with the one shop, one school and one community hall to which they have access.

Marie Bruhat, a textile artist and knitwear designer, first visited Fair Isle in 2015 and was bowled over by its beauty.

Originally from Auvergne in France , she made the island her home in 2017. “You don’t have a job, you aren’t one thing, you’re an ‘islander'," she says.

“What is important when living in a place like Fair Isle is flexibility," Bruhat says. "You learn to make the most of the weather, and it’s important to be able to adapt to anything that happens."

The islanders, challenged by the elements each day, tend to be inventive, resourceful and rely on each other.

No two days are the same as the sun and the sea create ever-changing vistas.

This is also one of the best places in Europe for birdlife sightings. Many rare birds stop off on their migration routes in spring and autumn, while varied species of seabirds nest in the cliffs every summer.

At least 350 unique species have been identified in the area until now, with reported sightings of rare birds such as the brown-headed cowbird, red-rumped swallow and white-tailed eagle.

The black-and-white puffins can always be relied on to provide a show, but it can be tougher to spot the Arctic tern, black guillemot and northern gannet.

On my visit, I enjoy otter watching. The playful creatures gambol excitedly as they try to get in their fill of the short daylight hours.

From April to August, the cliffs are packed with seabirds such as razorbills, storm petrels, northern fulmars, kittiwakes and guillemots.

There's plenty more to do than simply bird watch here, however. The dramatic cliffs and changing shorelines also offer plenty of opportunities to walk, cycle, sail, angle, kayak, dive, surf and climb.

Then there's the George Waterston Memorial Centre and Museum, named after the man who bought the island after the Second World War, where visitors learn about the history of the island, the many shipwrecks off its coast and its acclaimed knitwear.

There is also the North Lighthouse and South Lighthouse, built by the famed Stevenson brothers, Charles and David. These were first illuminated in 1892 using paraffin and turned by clockwork. Today, they stand tall as a reminder of Shetland’s glorious seafaring past.

Elsewhere, the Fair Isle Bird Observatory has been renowned for its scientific research on bird migration and the seabird breeding colonies for more than 55 years.

"The observatory burned down in 2019 and a rebuild is under way to restore the property,” says Janette Budge, a true-blue Shetlander, knitwear designer and tutor.

She says Fair Isle is world renowned for its traditional knitwear. Made popular by royals and celebrities, the technique has geometric patterns, such as the crosses and hexagons of the popular Oxo pattern, and symbols related to life on the islands, such as flowers and ram horns.

Local lore goes that a ship from the Spanish Armada in 1588 ran aground on Fair Isle.

The 17 households that then lived on the island took the sailors in and were taught the colourful patterned knitting by the Spaniards. But locals and experts don’t agree, citing Scandinavian influences instead.

Life on an island can seem romantic, but all islanders know they must be practical and pragmatic. On Fair Isle, this means almost everyone has several jobs – their day jobs and other maintenance gigs. Most islanders believe that the ability to “muck in as and when needed” keeps everyone going.

For Bruhat, that includes running her knitting studio and artistic practice, as well as hosting individually tailored, week-long knitting holidays that are her idea of a “dream” break.

"It’s a week to live with someone local, learn about the culture, immerse in the island’s beauty and knit something unique," she says.

Social events are also woven into chores and community activities. These include events in the crofting calendar, such as baling and Sheep Hill (when sheep are driven off the northern half of the island).

There’s also an annual harvest festival, a pantomime and dance at Christmas, and "guizing" at Hogmanay, when people disguise themselves and play pranks.

Life on Fair Isle may not be easy, especially in winter, but once here it’s easy to fall into the inescapable rhythm of island living.

As the days shorten and night lengthens its grip on the sky, people wait for Up Helly Aa, fire festivals held annually from January to March to mark the end of the Yule season.

The marches end in a torch-lit procession and the burning of a galley, a celebration of Shetlanders’ Viking roots.

As Shetlander, travel writer and guide Laurie Goodlad writes: “Up Helly Aa is a celebration of the return of the light after a long, dark winter.”

Just like the island, it's a sight to behold.

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Watch the island’s highly skilled craftspeople at work – spinning, weaving and of course knitting Fair Isle jumpers.

Fair Isle is a birdwatcher’s paradise – it’s a vital stopping-off point for migrating birds and more than 350 species have been recorded here.

See signs of the island’s fascinating past everywhere, from remnants of Iron Age settlements to places named after Viking invaders and the wreck of a World War II German plane.

Walk the length of the 3 mile island – there’s a Stevenson lighthouse at each end.

Today's Opening Hours

Entry prices.

At all Trust places, admission is free for members.

Handmade Fair Isle knitwear

A circus of puffins stand near a cliff on Fair Isle

A close-up of the Fair Isle South Lighthouse on a sunny day

Two lambs take a rest on the grass on Fair Isle

Explore the rocky coastline of Fair Isle.

About this place

Truly get away from it all with a visit to Fair Isle.

Immortalised in the shipping news, and famous for its distinctive knitwear, Fair Isle is the most remote thriving community in the UK. It lies almost exactly halfway between Shetland and Orkney and can be reached by boat or small plane.

Ashore is a warm, welcoming community, consisting mainly of craftspeople, conservationists, boat-builders and crofters. Renowned as a place to see birds, there are lots of other things to discover – from archaeological remains to the famous Stevenson lighthouses.

Fair Isle is a birdwatcher’s paradise, being a vital stopping-off place for migrating birds, and more than 350 species have been recorded here.

Mingulay seabirds’ strong season

2017 figures show the island has had its best seabird season since 2000

Seabirds, camera, action!

We would love you to submit photos of seabirds carrying fish at any National Trust for Scotland place. This will help us monitor what food seabirds are finding to feed their chicks.

Scottish island adventures

Sail across sparkling seas and visit these splendid Scottish islands. Incredible scenery, fresh sea air and family-friendly adventures await.

The eagle with the sunlit eye

We take a look at the history of the national reintroduction programme for the sea eagle (also known as the white-tailed eagle), and our charity’s important role in that.

Fair Isle Bird Observatory & Guesthouse

Fair isle marine environment and tourism initiative, biosecurity for life, stay in touch.

Be the first to hear about our latest news, get inspiration for great days out and learn about the work we do for the love of Scotland.

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• Shetland Visitor Guide

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Fair Isle is the most isolated of Britain's inhabited islands. Only three miles long by 1 1/2 miles wide, the island has a population of around 70 and is best known for its intricately patterned knitwear, which is still produced by a co-operative, Fair Isle Crafts. Co-operative could be said to sum up the friendly islanders, whose lifestyle is based on mutual help and community effort.

Phone code: 01595 24 miles SW of Sumburgh and 27 miles NE of North Ronaldsay in Orkney

Travel Directions to Fair Isle

Getting to Fair Isle requires patience, persistence and a strong stomach to survive the white-knuckle 4 1/2-hr ferry sailing. There are also flights from Tingwall Airport. See Transport below.

For more information on Fair Isle visit www.fairisle.org.uk, or call the National Trust for Scotland (Tel. 0141-616 2266, The National Trust for Scotland .

A day-return flight allows about 6 hrs on the island. You can also fly from Kirkwall on Orkney, which allows 2 1/2 hrs on the island, Tel. 01856-872420. Ferries should be booked with J W Stout, Tel. 760222.

Local Sights & Activities for Fair Isle

Fair Isle is a paradise for birdwatchers, and keen ornithologists form the majority of the island's visitors. Celebrity birdwatcher and former Goodie, Bill Oddie, has dubbed it the "the Hilton of the bird world". It stands in the flight path of many thousands of migrating birds, and over 340 species have been recorded here at the Fair Isle Bird Observatory, which also offers accommodation and where visitors are welcome to take part. As well as the almost obscenely rich birdlife there are around 240 species of flowering plants, making the island an especially beautiful haven for naturalists. Fair Isle's coastline, especially in the north and west, also boasts some outstanding cliff scenery.

The bird observatory was the brainchild of George Waterston, an ornithologist who first visited in 1935 and then bought the island in 1948 to begin his task of building the observatory. The island was given to the National Trust for Scotland in 1954 and declared a National Scenic Area. It was recently designated a place of outstanding natural beauty and cultural heritage by the Council of Europe. The George Waterston Memorial Centre has exhibits and photographs detailing the island's natural history, as well as the history of crofting, fishing, archaeology and knitwear. Info - May to mid-Sep Mon and Fri 1400-1600, Wed 1030-1200. Donations welcome.

Fair Isle Hotels & Accommodation

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• Exploring Fair Isle with Leah
• Inspiration

The island of Fair Isle is synonymous with knitwear but the southernmost Shetland island is also a fantastic place for a holiday, as local lass and influencer Leah recently discovered.

In the second of her island hopping adventures this summer, Leah visited Fair Isle, one of the only inhabited Shetland islands she’d never been to before. Flying in on the small plane from Tingwall for a 4-night stay, Leah, who runs the popular Instagram account Shetland Islands With Leah , was overwhelmed by the warmth and charm of the island community.

Here are her top tips if you’re planning a visit to Fair Isle…

1. See the puffins in summer

It was very emotional going to Fair Isle. I’d heard so much about it but had never been before. Flying in on a bright, sunny day, I was struck by how beautiful it was from above.

As a Shetlander, I’m a huge fan of puffins and seen them countless times before, but nothing prepared me for the sheer number of them on Fair Isle. Seeing them up close at the North Lighthouse at sunset is a memory I’ll treasure forever. Another great place to see them is the cliffs around the ferry terminal, looking southwards towards Sheep Rock.

As well as puffins, there’s so much more bird and wildlife to encounter. See the Fair Isle Bird Observatory website for more information.

2. Look at the lighthouses

Fair Isle has two lighthouses at either end of the island – North and South – and each has a fascinating history. Both were built by the famous Stevenson brothers, Charles and David, and were first illuminated in 1892. The South Lighthouse is the tallest in Shetland and stands at 85 feet high. It’s well worth a walk to both lighthouses and to have a read of the information placards outside.

The South Lighthouse is also home to a small six-hole golf course and you can book and play a round, all equipment supplied. I don’t play golf but the experience of hitting golf balls surrounded by sea and cliffs is quite an experience!

3. Visit the museum

Fair Isle lies 24 miles south of the Mainland and has its own unique history, so a visit to the George Waterston Memorial Centre and Museum during your stay is a must. As a Shetlander, I found it fascinating. I learnt all about the history of the island, and about its acclaimed knitwear and all the shipwrecks there’s been over the years.

The museum is named after the man who bought the island after the Second World War and co-founded the island’s bird observatory in 1948. Fair Isle is now owned by the National Trust for Scotland.

4. Buy authentic Fair Isle knitwear

Fair Isle knitwear is known around the world and the patterns have been copied and interpreted by designers for decades, but if you want the real deal, you need to head to Fair Isle. There are a number of locals who continue to create genuine Fair Isle knitwear to this day. The best way to see what’s available is to ask a local when you arrive and they’ll point you in the direction of the knitters and crafters. I picked up a beautiful kep (hat) and it will always remind me of my time in Fair Isle.

5. Attend a Sunday service

If you’re visiting Fair Isle over a weekend, it’s definitely worth going along to the church service on Sunday morning. Even if you’re not overly religious, it’s a beautiful experience. The whole community come together and to hear the congregation sing is just amazing.

When you visit a small island you might expect people to be stand-offish but that couldn’t be further from the truth. Everyone on the island was so friendly, inviting me into their homes and making me feel welcome. It was so heartening.

6. Enjoy a coastal walk

Fair Isle is 3 miles long and 1.5 miles wide, so ideal for hiking around over a day or two. The views and cliffs are just spectacular, with plenty of stacks and arches to admire from above. The highest point on the isle is Ward Hill, which is marked by a cairn.

7. Shop local

Fair Isle has a brilliant, fully stocked shop, Stackhoull Stores. If you’re planning a visit, resist the urge to take too much of your own groceries with you as it’s well stocked with food and drink. Money spent on the island goes back into the community and supports the economy. The shop is open every day in the summer, except Thursdays and Sundays.

See more of Leah’s adventures in Fair Isle on our Instagram page . Simply click on Leah: Fair Isle in our highlights.

Visiting Fair Isle

• There are regular flights to Fair Isle from the Shetland Mainland. See the Airtask website for the latest timetable and prices.
• The Good Shepherd IV ferry takes 2.5 hours from Grutness in the South Mainland and must be pre-booked. See the SIC ferry website for more details.
• Flights to Fair Isle have limited baggage allowance, so if your luggage exceeds the limit you can arrange for it to be taken in on the ferry in advance of your arrival. Ring the booking office for more information: +44 (0)1595 760363
• There’s rental and bed and breakfast accommodation available.
• Stackhoull Stores sells groceries, household items and has a post office.

Discover more about Fair Isle

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• Birdwatching

Birds of Fair Isle

Sitting between the remote Orkney and Shetland Isles, Fair Isle is a tranquil attraction home to historic shipwrecks, a culture of knitting, and (most importantly) a bird observatory!

While this Wildlife visitor’s site is more complicated to reach than others in Scotland, its remoteness makes it an excellent place to explore Birdwatch without worrying about noisy tourists or distractions.

The island has become a prime destination for birders willing to travel to Fair Isle, who know that its sparse human population makes it a desirable destination for seabirds to visit and breed.

There have been sightings of at least 360 unique bird species on the island, including Atlantic Puffins, Black Guillemot, Arctic Terns, and more!

A trip to the Fair Isle Observatory is recommended for only the most enthusiastic birder, but it’s an experience that you will remember once you’re there.

In This Post

About the Fair Isle Birds

Fair Isle is a tiny Isle measuring about 768 hectares (about 3 square miles), with a permanent population of 70 residents throughout the year. Although few people live on the island, Fair Isle is known for its vibrant knitted clothing. Fair Isle is a knitting style that most residents make their living off of.

But for birders coming to the Isle, the Fair Isle Bird Observatory is the premier attraction, managed by the Fair Isle Bird Observatory Trust.

The Observatory was built in 1948 and is a fantastic place to watch migratory birds and stay for the night if you want to extend your stay on Fair Isle.

Many record bird sightings of rare birds have been recorded on Fair Isle, and many birders claim that the Isle is one of, if not the best, places to go birdwatching. Before taking a trip and visiting the Isle, here are some things you ought to know:

Details to Know

If you’ve exhausted all the birdwatching havens in Mainland Scotland, why not save the best for last and navigate North to Fair Isle? Just before the Shetland Isles and just past the Orkney Isles, this north haven is a stunning bird paradise with records for bird sightings.

The Bird Observatory, which sits south of the airport, is an excellent place to enjoy the many species that roost on the Isle during its busy breeding season.

The Observatory also has a guest house, although you’ll need to book well in advance to score yourself a room – it gets booked exceptionally quickly. Luckily, there’s much to do during your stay, making it entirely worth it.

You should also bring ample warm clothes and windproof accessories as the wind, especially near the coastline, can become especially strong.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Fair Isle and its Observatory is, no doubt, between late April, May, June, and July during the summer breeding season. During these busy months, the island comes alive with many species and subspecies of birds, looking to seek shelter and lay eggs before they set out again during August and September.

That being said, if you want to avoid the busy season, the Isle is home to permanent bird residents that would delight any avid birder – including Palla’s grasshopper warbler, Caspian plover, and more!

How to Get There

Fair Isle’s remoteness is one of the main challenges but doesn’t worry; there are still plenty of ways to reach the Isle. Cruises and ferries are the most popular way to get to the Isle, with shops leaving the Shetland Mainland to go regularly to Fair Isle.

The ship is called the Good Shepard IV and leaves from Grutness three times a week.

The other option is to fly in at the Fair Isle Airport, which accommodates flights from Tingwall each day of the weekday, with Saturday flights also available during the summer months.

Top Birds of Fair Isle

The natural beauty of Fair Isle is to be appreciated, and the tiny Isle will be the highlight of anyone’s trip. But the ringing calls that echo from the cliffs will be a special treat for avid birders coming for seabird monitoring. Here are the top bird species to look out for while you’re visiting:

Atlantic Puffins (Fratercula arctica)

Fair Isle boasts one of the largest colonies of Puffins in the UK, and they can be seen nesting on the small rocks and sea stacks surrounding Fair Isle. These birds only lay a single egg per couple and are easily spotted thanks to their multi-coloured beaks.

Arctic Terns (Sterna paradisaea)

Arctic Terns are easily identified by the black cap on their head, their red beaks, and their highly angular wings. They’re known for having one of the most extended migratory patterns in the world, travelling between the Arctic and Antarctic each year!

Black Guillemot (Cepphus grylle)

Birders will be overjoyed to know that one of the largest populations of the Black Guillemot can be found on Fair Isle! Grabbing a photo or taking videos of these impressive birds has always been challenging, with the summer months being their most abundant season.

Watch for their black feathers, red legs, and beaks during the summer breeding period.

European Storm Petrel (Hydrobates pelagicus)

The Storm Petrel is a unique ground-nesting bird that keeps its eggs and nests underground, which poses a challenge for birders to spot their young. Nevertheless, the Petrel can be identified by its black feathers and easy-to-spot square tail during its flight display.

Northern Gannet (Morus bassanus)

Watching the Northern Gannet dive into the water for fish is a fantastic sight, especially since this bird species is the largest that exists entirely on fish. The female of the species can regularly be seen guarding their single egg during the spring and summer, waiting for it to hatch in late summer.

Accommodation Options

Accommodation options are sparse in Fair Isle, which makes sense given the area’s remoteness, but there are still several places where you can end a day of productive birdwatching on the Isle.

The guest lodge at the Bird Observatory is one of the best places to relax, but the Fair Isle Lodge and The Auld Haa guest house are other great choices.

Things to Do Nearby

Fair Isle is jam-packed with excellent things to do nearby, including the iconic North and South Fair Isle Lighthouses, which grant spectacular views out to the North Sea. North Haven has some highlights, too, including shops that sell the delightful Fair Isle-styled knitwear.

The Isle also has shipwrecks dating back to the 13th and 16th centuries, with fascinating historical museums and curio shops.

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• A Visit To Fair Isle...

A Visit to Fair Isle: Britain’s Loneliest Island

Journey over choppy Atlantic seas to Fair Isle, Britain’s loneliest island, home to only around 50 people, one shop, two wind turbines and several thousand puffins.

With a population approximately the same as France (around 67 million) crammed onto a landmass half its size, Britain may feel a little overcrowded at times.

But for the residents of Fair Isle, overpopulation is not a problem they need concern themselves with. Here, the puffins outnumber the humans by roughly 100 to 1.

Set in the middle of the North Atlantic, 38km (23mi) from Shetland and 43km (27mi) from Orkney , Fair Isle is as far away from civilisation as it’s possible to get in the British Isles. Measuring barely five kilometres across and two kilometres wide, the island is home to a tiny permanent population of just over 50 people. In fact, it’s the most remote inhabited place in the UK.

Until 1955, it was privately owned, but since then it’s been managed by the National Trust of Scotland. Buildings are few and far between: there’s just one shop, alongside a tiny school, a couple of churches, two lighthouses and a scattering of crofts spread out across the island’s treeless landscape. Incredibly, 24-hour power only arrived in 2018 thanks to the addition of two new wind turbines. Prior to that, electricity shut off every night between 11pm and 7am.

It feels remote in a way very few corners of the British Isles do. In fact, just getting there is half the adventure.

The journey to Fair Isle

There are two ways to reach the island. The first involves a thrilling 20-minute hop aboard a tiny aeroplane from the mainland of Shetland – the kind of bumpy, heart-in-the-mouth flight where you sit knees-up behind the pilot and get to watch the controls as you come in to land.

Unfortunately, the unpredictable weather means flights are regularly cancelled without notice – which leaves the only other alternative, a notoriously rough crossing aboard the island’s ferry, the Good Shepherd IV.

The boat runs three times a week in summer, dropping to once a week in winter. The crossing usually takes between two and four hours, although fog, wind and choppy seas means it sometimes takes considerably longer. Most of the island’s supplies arrive by sea, so the ferry often carries some highly unusual cargo – from livestock and machinery to domestic appliances and even classic cars.

“The boat is a lifeline for the island,” explains Captain Ian Best, the Good Shepherd’s skipper. “Without it, we would struggle to keep things going here. So we’re out there in pretty much all weathers – wind, rain, hail, snow. It can get pretty lively at times. Lucky the old girl’s built to last, eh?” he adds, running a hand affectionately along the boat’s hull, before disappearing back into the wheelhouse.

Knit one, purl one

Even though most people would have a hard time pinpointing Fair Isle on a map, they’ll almost certainly know its name thanks to its world-famous knitting pattern. Incorporating bright bands of colour with symmetrical geometric shapes, the distinctive Fair Isle design dates back hundreds of years. It shares many similarities with traditional Scandinavian knitting patterns, a legacy of the maritime trade on which the island once relied.

Traditionally, clothing was knitted by the island’s women for their husbands and children. Garments were made entirely by hand using wool from the island’s sheep; the yarn offers both warmth and natural water repellency, making it ideal for the cold, wet Scottish weather. One jumper would have taken several days to finish, but these days most knitters use electric hand looms to cut down production time. Even so, they’re a labour that requires many hours’ work. As such, they command hefty price-tags – from around £200 for a standard jumper, up to £1000 or more for custom designs.

Traditional Fair Isle knitwear can be bought on the island from local craftspeople including Kathy Coull and the Fair Isle Textile Workshop , and Elizabeth Riddiford’s Exclusively Fair Isle . Knitters such as Mati Ventrillon and Hollie Shaw offer more contemporary designs.

“It feels amazing to be part of this incredible island tradition,” Hollie explains, as she works behind her loom on her latest jumper design. “These skills are part of our heritage, and it’s so important that we hold onto them. Every time I knit a jumper, I feel a connection to the island’s past – and hopefully, in my own way, I’m doing a little bit to help ensure its future, too.”

Bird island

Apart from knitting, Fair Isle is also famous for birdwatching . The island’s isolated location in the North Atlantic makes it a waypoint for many migrating bird species, including puffins (known as tammie nories in the local Shetland dialect), razorbills (wilkies), arctic skuas (skooty aalans) and great skuas (bonxies), which have an unpleasant habit of dive-bombing anyone who approaches their nests.

Throughout the year, nature wardens on the island monitor bird populations and conduct species counts, providing a valuable resource for documenting seasonal changes and migration patterns. In fact, the island has one of the world’s oldest ornithological records, stretching back more than seven decades.

Sadly, the island’s bird observatory (which also doubled as its only hotel) burned down in a major fire in 2018, and is currently in the process of being rebuilt. It’s hoped that it will be up and running again in the early 2020s.

Ancient history

With its black cliffs, stark moors and deserted coves, there’s no doubt that the island has a stark beauty, but it’s certainly not an easy place to live. In winter, it’s not unusual for the island to find itself cut off for several days by bad weather, sometimes even longer.

Amazingly, however, despite its remote location, humans have been living on Fair Isle for at least 5,000 years. Archaeological digs have revealed many artefacts dating back to Neolithic times , along with traces of ancient oval stone houses and stone dykes used to divide up the land.

There are also two important sites dating from the Bronze Age, including a hillfort at Landberg and a small settlement at Kirki Geo. Later, the island was settled by Vikings , who called it Fridarey – the island of peace. Many of the island’s place names stem from Old Norse.

The crofting life

It was the Vikings who probably also introduced crofting to the island. This ancient system of land management has been practised across the highlands and islands of Scotland for many centuries. Traditionally, each islander is entitled to their own smallholding, where they can farm, raise livestock and grow vegetables. It’s a system that’s still in use today.

Thanks to the small number of crofts available on Fair Isle, they are highly sought after. On the rare occasion one becomes available, the island receives hundreds of applications for the vacancy. Would-be islanders are asked to undergo a lengthy selection process: applicants with special skills such as teaching, nursing and engineering are preferred, as are people with young families (the island’s tiny school has a constant struggle to find enough children to remain open).

Self-reliance, resilience and a willingness to participate in island life are all essential qualities for survival. Nearly all the islanders supplement their crofting income with multiple jobs (for example, Fair Isle’s postmistress also runs the shop, works at the airport and volunteers part-time as a retained firefighter).

But for many of Fair Isle’s inhabitants, the island’s isolation is exactly what draws them here in the first place. Living in such a remote place fosters a close-knit sense of community and neighbourliness; when the bird observatory burnt down, half the island turned out to help.

“It’s always been like that on Fair Isle,” explains minister John Best. Now in his eighties, he’s the island’s oldest resident, having lived on the island for more than forty years. Though semi-retired, he still administers the weekly sermon, while also finding time to indulge his lifelong passion: painting.

“Living in a place like this, you have to work together,” he says. “There’s no room to fall out with people or bear grudges. It’s like one big family, really: you squabble sometimes, of course, but ultimately you rely on each other to survive. Living here has taught me the value of community. Personally, I think there are lessons about life here that the rest of Britain would do well to follow.”

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Journey of a Nomadic Family

Isles of scotland: best scottish islands to visit.

If you’re looking to visit the Isles Of Scotland but have no idea which of the 700 islands would be best for you, we have found some of the best Scottish Islands for you to visit whatever the season. From the Orkney Islands to the tiny, pedestrianised island of Iona, we will find the best island in Scotland for you. Here we list 55 (and it’s growing) Isles of Scotland that we think are great for hopping, exploring, relaxing on and even swimming!

Please be really patient for this enormous post to load!  There are loads of maps, photos, tips and more.

Table of Contents

How Many Isles of Scotland Are There?

Scotland has 790 islands, which I’m sure will surprise you, and furthermore, Scotland has more than 10% of Europe’s entire coastline. It is three-quarters surrounded by sea after all. Only 130 islands have permanent inhabitants and some form of transport to get you there – although others are accessible on day trips.

The islands of Scotland are divided into five categories; The Outer Hebrides, The Inner Hebrides, the Shetland Islands, Orkney Island, the Firth of Forth and the tidal islands.

The Inner Hebrides is made up of 35 inhabited islands as well as 44 uninhabited islands that stretch along Scotland’s western coast. The three largest islands with the highest populations are Skye, Mull, and Islay. The Inner Hebrides are best reached from Glasgow, via car, ferry or by air depending on which island you are visiting.

Also known as The Western Isles, or Na h-Eileanan an Iar in Gaelic, the Outer Hebrides consist of 15 inhabited islands with a total population of 26,830 and more than 50 uninhabited islands. The beaches of the Outer Hebrides are often confused with beaches of the Caribbean, with their powder-white sand and crystal-clear waters. The Isle of Lewis and Harris, Barra and South Uist are three of the main islands of the Outer Hebrides.

With UNESCO World Heritage Sites, white sandy beaches, and amazing wildlife, the Orkney Islands make an extremely popular holiday destination. There are about 70 Orkney Islands, 20 of which are inhabited. Many travellers like to visit the Orkney Islands during the Autumn and Winter months for a greater chance of spotting the Northern Lights. Some of Orkney’s largest or most popular islands include Kirkwall, Hoy and Eday.

The Shetland Islands are located 130 miles north of the Scottish mainland and 190 miles west of Norway, making it the UK’s most northerly point. Around 100 islands fall under Shetland, with fewer than 20 of them inhabited. The three most populated islands of Shetland are Lerwick, the capital of the islands, Yell and Scalloway.

Map Of The Scottish Islands Listed Below

You can use this map from Google to locate all of the Isles of Scotland.

How Can You Get Around The Scottish Isles?

Although there are some airports, it isn’t a true adventure until you’ve hopped on a ferry and braved those Atlantic or Northern Seas – and in winter they can be rough!

Some of the ferries accommodate cars and camper vans although some, like the ferries to Iona and Muck, Eigg & Rum are passenger only. Some islands you’ll only be able to visit at low tide or by hiring a local fisherman and boat to take you.

I’ve never had a bad experience on a Scottish island and most locals are welcoming and friendly, so long as you don’t turn their island into an Instagrammable haven!

If you’re interested in touring the Isles of Scotland in a car or van, buy this book and take the slow road!

Which Island Should I Visit In Scotland?

With so many to chose from which Isle of Scotland should you visit?

The Isle of Skye, in the Inner Hebrides, is the most visited of all the islands in Scotland and whilst the Outer Hebrides are mostly moorland, peat bogs and lochs (with the exception of mountainous Harris) they have some of the most beautiful white-sand beaches you’ll likely ever see in the UK!

The Shetland Islands are the furthest away from the Scottish mainland and Fair Isle is an isolated island found between The Shetland and The Orkney Islands. North Rona is closer to the Faroe Islands than Scotland and the Slate Islands have a unique feel to them due to their slate mining history.

Stornoway on Lewis, Kirkwall in Orkney and Lerwick in Shetland are the Scottish islands’ largest towns. All three are the hub of activity on their respective islands but if you’re looking for a total get-away experience there are still some private islands that only have two inhabitants living on them.

The best islands for scuba-diving are Scapa Flow in the Orkney Islands, St Kilda & Mull where water temperatures range from 4°C  in April to 14°C in September. Wild camping in a tent is allowed all over Scotland on condition that you remember the Scottish Outdoor Access Code.

Whether you’re looking for adrenaline-filled adventures, beach holidays, long hikes or total relaxation and whisky tastings, we’ve listed 54 islands below so you can find your perfect Isle of Scotland holiday.

Want to know more about the Isles of Scotland? Buy this book on Scottish Islands before you travel there.

The island of Arran is one of the most accessible Scottish islands and you can drive to Arran from Glasgow in just a couple of hours. Despite being so close to the mainland, Arran has a relaxed atmosphere coupled with dramatic scenery and eclectic wildlife of the Inner Hebrides.

The ferry route to Arran goes via the town of Ardrossdan on Scotland’s south-west coast. It takes around an hour to drive to the port from Glasgow, or you can also get the train to Ardrossan station which is right by the port. If you are only planning on visiting the island for a couple of days, I would recommend taking your car over.  Some of the main attractions are at opposite ends of the island so having your own vehicle means no waiting about for public transport.

What’s so special about the Isle of Arran is that it feels like a microcosm of Scotland all rolled into a tiny island. Stunning mountain glens, charming seaside towns and a rich history. If you’re short on time, it’s easy enough to see most of the top spots in a couple of days however, this gorgeous island is also the perfect destination for a longer, more laid-back island break in Scotland.

Much of the tourist accommodation is located around Brodick, the main settlement since there’s a lot to do within a short distance. If you’re planning to use public transport while you’re on Arran, there are plenty of public bus routes that leave from Brodick and take you right around the island. During the peak tourist season (roughly May-September), it’s also possible to secure a place on an organised tour group.

The island of Arran has plenty of hiking trails with a range of difficulties. The most challenging, but also the most rewarding, is the hike up to Goatfell. This pyramidal peak is the highest point on Arran, and a tough 5-hour climb will reward you with incredible views over the island. If you’re looking for some more gentle options, opt for the hiking trail to Glenashdale Falls and the Giant’s Graves. This circular walk is much easier but still gives you the chance to see some of Arran’s most beautiful scenery.

A large amount of produce is made on the island; from gin and whisky to ice cream and cheese, there are so many Isle of Arran products to try. Brodrick is a great spot to shop for all things Arran. If you want some souvenirs, visit Arran Aromatics to pick up some incredible home gifts inspired by the island.

Arran is a true Scottish Island gem that you’ll definitely not want to miss.

Written by Emma from The Hobby Traveller. See more from Emma on Instagram. 

Learn more about life on the Hebridean Islands by reading this autobiography set on the Isles of Scotland.

Book Your Stay On Arran

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Things To Do On Arran

Barra is the most southerly occupied island in the Outer Hebrides archipelago and the most westerly island in the UK. It is truly special amongst Scotland’s glorious islands and a perfect place to visit when road tripping the beautiful UK.

You can get to Barra by car ferry from Oban to Castlebay, which takes around 4-5 hours. For a once in a lifetime experience, fly into Barra’s unique beach airstrip, airport at Cockle Strand in between the tides on Traigh Mor Beach.  After landing on the beach, head to the small airport terminal for one of the friendliest welcomes you’ll ever receive and to pick up your hire car.

Although it is only 9 miles long, Barra is known for its stunning white sandy beaches, big skies and wild landscapes, the island of Barra is a place to visit and contemplate life, take long walks and enjoy the wonderful flora and fauna that is all around you. If you love the great outdoors, this is the Scottish island for you. With great hiking routes, roads safe to cycle on, sea kayaking, diving and even a golf course there is plenty to keep visitors occupied.

Barra also has a rich history, from the first settlers in 2500BC and the archaeological sites which tell their story to the fascinating and convoluted history of clan Macneil of Barra and Kisimul Castle, their rocky island stronghold in the waters of Castlebay. For an overview of the island’s past and culture, visit the island’s heritage centre, Dualchas, where you’ll find local history displays and art exhibitions, as well as cultural events.

View the Barra seals at Seal Bay or if you have wetsuits (you’ll need them) head for Halaman Bay for some swimming and even surfing but if you’re looking for a breathtaking challenge of rollercoaster inclines and dips, try cycling to the island of Vateersay which is connected to Barra via a short causeway. You can rent bikes in Castlebay and don’t forget to check out the deserted village of Eoradail.

For a unique experience on a Scottish Island try the Indian night at Kisimul Cafe.  Book in advance as it gets busy, as far as we know this is the only Indian food available on the Outer Hebrides!  Many of the local bars also have live traditional music at the weekends, enjoy rousing foot-tapping songs and dancing when you attend a Scottish cèilidh (social event).

If you’re looking for an adventurous day trip. Take a boat trip to three uninhabited southern islands with Islands of Adventure . Visit Flannan Isle, the Blue Lagoon on Pabay Island and see dolphins and porpoise on Little Bernera.

Written by Izzy from The Gap Decaders. See more from Izzy on Facebook. 

Belnahua (Abandoned)

The Slate Islands are an island group in the Inner Hebrides situated off the Firth of Lorn. The main islands are Seil, Easdale, Luing, Shuna, Torsa and Belnahua.

Once Belnahua island was home to 200 people, a shop and a school but today it is abandoned and all that is left is a row of derelict, slate workers cottages and rusted, abandoned machinery.

Belnahua is known for its deserted slate quarries which were mined since prehistoric times and helped to roof the British Empire with a global industry connecting it to slate markets in England, Canada and even the West Indies.

This island was a place where little grew and food arrived by boat, along with water when the well ran dry. Life here came to an end during the First World War when the island’s men left to fight and women and children relocated to neighbouring islands which are bigger and have better infrastructure.

The centre of the island has been completely quarried out leaving a gaping hole.  The depth of the workings can be seen through the very clear water but in order to visit now you’ll need to kayak or book a private boat from a local fisherman on another island.

You may be able to book via the Heritage Centre on Easdale  or from Luing.

The small island of Benbecula lies between North and South Uist in the Outer Hebrides and is frequently used as a stepping stone but take time for this little gem and you’ll be rewarded with beautiful nature and peace like no other.

Benbecula is another ancient island with links to Monastical life in the 6th century and the ruins of Columba’s Church can still be found here south of the main town. The island also has an unusual military history. The airfield built during World War II became the control centre for the Hebrides rocket range, established during the Cold War and is now Benbecula Airport. An army base was established in the 1950s and remains one of the main island employers as it is the headquarters for those who service the South Uist missile testing range.

You can tour the ruins of Borve Castle, a ruined 14th-century tower house, visit St Toranan’s ruined Temple to St Columba but the island is best known for its gorgeous beaches and backed sand dunes. The local marine life includes dolphins, seals, sharks and whales and from the Uist islands, you can book whale-watching expeditions. If you’d prefer to stay on land, try spotting owls and eagles on the East Side or head to the wild machair grasses that carpet the west coast in search of the elusive corncrake.

Walking and cycling are both popular pastimes as Benbecula is flat with many tidal bays and unspoilt moorland to explore. It’s one solitary hill, Rueval, is just 407 ft high. The path to the summit goes past the cave where Bonnie Prince Charlie is reputed to have hidden whilst waiting for Flora MacDonald to arrange his escape from the island.

However, if you’re looking for something more adventurous, book Tom from Benbecula Freedive for adventure waterbased activities.  Tom offers Adventure Snorkelling,  Freediving, Wreck diving, Spearfishing, Mountain Biking, Kayaking, Personal Training and Fitness classes.

Looking to move to the Hebridean Islands? Read more from Tamsin who chucked in a London career to renovate & manage a croft.

One of the most easily accessible islands, Bute is best known for its varied landscapes and wildlife. Lush, vibrant green, rolling hills of the island’s centre to the craggy, northern heather-covered moorlands and the delightful sandy beaches around the coastline.

The Isle of Bute is just 33 miles from Glasgow by car and there are two ferries.  Leaving from Wemyss Bay you’ll arrive into Rothesay on the east with a 35-minute crossing. The ferry from Colintraive terminal takes 5 minutes crossing to Rhubodach in the north.

Bute is possibly most famous though for its art-deco town of Rothesay where there’s a refurbished pavilion with its palm trees and promenade. Attractions include Rothesay Castle, the stately home at nearby Mount Stuart and some of the country’s best Victorian toilets . No joke!

Bute is relatively large and there’s something for everyone. Is anyone interested in history? Visit the Iron Age fort, Rothesay Castle, the remains of the monastery of St Blane, Mount Stuart House and Bute Museum. For those interested in archaeology there are standing stones – most notably the Kingarth Stones.

You could visit the Bute Community Forest for some simple walks or hike around the West Island Way. Alternatively, hike from Kilchattan Bay to Langalbuinoch and watch the sunset from Stravannan beach and see Arran in the distance. Glen More to Ettrick Bay is another great walk and you can end in Port Bannatyne for a wonderful coffee at the Post Office and choose whether to hike onwards on the old Tramway route to Ettrick Bay.

Beaches St Ninian’s Bay or The Straad is a small bay on the west coast with a natural anchorage. The bay is protected by St Ninian’s Point, a spit of land that can become cut off with tides.  Scalpsie Bay is also on the west coast of the island. It is a beautiful and secluded bay with reddish coloured sand. Scalpsie was used for military purposes and the timber posts sunken into the sand are the remains of anti-glider defences.

Of course, no Scottish Island would be complete without alcohol! The Spirit of Bute Brewery is the only brewery on the island and the Isle of Bute Gin’s return Distillery are eagerly awaited. It had to move because it became too popular!

ButeFest is also held on the Isle of Bute, being held next to the beautiful beach at Ettrick Bay and the island even has its own Highland Games! Bute Highland Games is held in August every year and showcases some of the finest highland sportspeople and loads of pipe bands!

Fun Fact: Bute is also home to one of the biggest vegan cheesemakers in the UK. Bute Island Sheese is located in Rothesay and they ship their 28 dairy free sheeses globally.

Eig, Rum, Muck & Canna form the Small Isles archipelago, in the Inner Hebrides and Canna is the westernmost of the islands. It is linked to the neighbouring island of Sanday by a road and sandbanks at low tide. The island is just 4.3 miles long and 1 mile wide and is a car-free island.

You can get to The Small Isles by the CalMac ferry from Mallaig.  The ferry does not call at each island every day;  an island may have between three to five sailings per week.   Journey times to each island from Mallaig will vary as the ferry travels between the different islands. If you’re feeling brave enough you could hire an offshore RIB operating from Elgol on Skye to both Rum and Canna. Advance booking necessary, telephone 01471 866 244.  Arisaig Marine runs cruises lasting 2-5 hours ashore Eigg, Muck and Rum. Operating from April until late September and departing Arisaig at 11am. You must pre-book, telephone: 01687 450224. The harbour office at Arisaig also contains a tea room, showers, toilets, shop and a laundrette.

Known as ‘the garden of the Hebrides’, Canna has beautiful green meadows and 248 native, wild flowering plants. White sandy beaches and spectacular scenery are all easily accessible on foot from Canna’s sheltered harbour.  With over 20,000 breeding seabirds, 176 different species, on Canna’s cliffs, there are also plenty of opportunities to spot kittiwakes, razorbills, crossbills and puffins.  From the island, you may also spot Minke Whales, Dolphins, Porpoise, Basking Sharks, Otters, Shearwaters and more. Fortunate visitors have also seen Killer Whales, Sea and Golden Eagles, although these are less common.

Things to do on Canna include visiting the Canna community shop, the Canna Tearoom, the Old Dairy exhibits everyday objects and old island photographs, visit the three churches , the Presbyterian ‘Rhu Church’, St Columba’s Chapel and Edward’s Chapel and stop by the historical Canna House and its spectacular garden.  Find out how John Lorne Campbell came to buy the island, how he strove to record and save Gaelic songs, poetry and stories that had previously only been passed down by word of mouth and how he built up the most important archive of Gaelic in the world.

The current curator of Canna House is Fiona Mackenzie who has recently published the first book of Margaret Fay Shaw’s heritage photography, entitled Eilean. U sing images from Thom collections (1881-1938) giving an unfiltered historical view of Canna. A film festival is planned for spring 2021.

Canna is perfect for long walks and hikes along its steep cliffs. Don’t miss the Souterrains and ‘King of Norway’s Grave’ and the Puffin Stacks. If you’re looking for a 10k the island even has its own race .  Black Beach and Sanday Beach are beautiful beaches and if you can, canoe the island’s waters and discover the caves.

Learn more about Canna with these photos from the island during the 1800s

If you’re looking for a moderately sized island (10 miles long) with a lot of festivals, head to Colonsay. The Isle of Colonsay has more festivals than any other island; the Book Festival in April, the Festival of Spring in May, the Folk Festival in September and the Autumn Food and Drink Festival in October.

This Inner Hebridean island is a two-hour ferry ride from Oban and Colonsay is most famous for its folk music festival, its jaw-dropping, white sand beaches and as a birdwatchers’ paradise.

With a tiny population of 135 people, there’s just one charming hotel on the island although there are plenty of B&Bs and cottages for rent and of course, in true island fashion, there’s a brewery! On a weekly basis, the hotel offers a quiz night on Thursdays, live local music on Friday nights and a kids DVD night on Tuesdays. During the summer months, there is a ceilidh in the village hall on Saturday nights.

Colonsay’s beaches are some of the most picturesque in Europe and you could spend all week just visiting the beaches of Kiloran, Balnahard, Machrins, Cable Bay, Garvard, Oransay and South East corner. Like many places in Scotland, Colonsay is a marine kindergarten for seal pups and there are at least seven distinct habitats around the island.

Traffic is not heavy on Colonsay and bikes can be rented from the hotel (Tel 01951 200316) and from ‘Jen & Matt’ (Tel 07572180552) and there are also plenty of walks to do including the ancient priory on the neighbouring island of Oronsay.

Other things not to miss are the Colonsay House gardens, the micro-brewery (the most remote brewery in Scotland) as well as two gin distilleries; Colonsay gin made by Wild Thyme Spirits located at Kilchattan and Wild Island Gin made by Colonsay Brewery next to the Village hall.

The caves at the north end of Kiloran Bay although the New Cave to the south requires a bit more planning. There are other caves at Uragaig, to the south-west of Kiloran where you might be able to see otters, bats, pigeons and spiders.

Buy some of Colonsay’s famous gin 

Coll is a super famous island as it’s the birthplace of the Katie Morag series which pretty much every UK kid has read or watched.  In the books, Coll is known by the fictional name of the Isle of Struay. In real life, Coll is located six miles west of the Isle of Mull in the Inner Hebrides and the car ferry runs from Oban to Coll every day throughout the year. During the summer there are two ferries on a Saturday.  Hebridean Air also runs flights from Oban to Coll on four days week during the summer.

13 miles long by 3 miles at its widest point, the island has seen Mesolithic hunter-gathers, Neolithic farmers, the Gaels, Vikings settlers and plenty of clan battles. Like many Scottish Islands, during the Highland Clearances , the population drastically declined and today there are only around 150 permanent residents left.

The island has plenty of accommodation and campsites but can only accommodate FOUR motorhomes so you must book before if you’re going by van, although you are allowed to wild camp on Coll. There’s also no public transport and biking is a popular way to get around.

There is something very special about Coll. Maybe because it has spectacular sandy beaches (over thirty) and has the longest sunshine hours recorded in the UK. The winter days are followed by dark starry nights that will take your breath away and with no street lights, Coll is one of the best places in the UK for stargazing. In fact, Coll is the first official Dark Sky island in Scotland and one of only two in the UK.  The best time to visit the Dark Sky Park on Coll is from October to March.

If you’re looking for Caribbean-style islands, Coll tops them all. It has thirty, white-sand beaches where you can stroll, surf, kayak, windsurf or just relax and take in the peace and tranquillity. It also hosts an enormous range of wildlife including dolphins, seals, otters, whales and basking sharks. If you want to take a boat trip or guided kayak tour book with IsleGO – Hebridean Boat Tours. If you wish to sea spot, head to Cliadh Beach however t here is also an RSPB Nature Reserve on western Coll and the RSPB offer guided walks during June.

Favourite beaches include the horseshoe bay of Crossapol, the machair covered dunes of Torastan, the never-ending Feall bay and the rocky Hyne. Although there are twenty-six others to explore!

Pop into the Island Cafe for home-cooked classics, the Post Office for all your gifts and island bike hire and support the island further by buying Ross Of Coll clothing brand. There’s the An Cridhe Community Centre which runs local events and a local craft market which sells locally produced goods and also not one but two castles.

Learn more about the Scottish Clearances and the impact it’s had on Scotland since.

Cramond (Tidal Island)

Another unique Scottish island and the easiest to visit if you’re in Edinburgh is Cramond Island.

If you’re looking for a day trip from Edinburgh, that’s just a short and easy bus ride away, this Isle of Scotland can only be visited at certain times, as twice a day, Cramond Island is cut off from the mainland by the tide.

One of the most important Roman statues found in Britain, the ‘Cramond Lioness’ was discovered here. The island is best seen during the summer months when the days are longer.

There are three areas on Eigg which are established as wildlife reserves. The first is the ridge of the Sgurr, a massive rock formation and the moorland between it and the north-west coast. Atlantic gales prune the vegetation here.

The second reserve comprises the slopes below the cliffs edging the Beinne Bhuide plateau, which are largely covered with hazel scrub, a type of woodland that has existed on Eigg for thousands of years.

The third and smallest reserve includes willow and hazel scrub, and the largest extent of raised bog on the island, in lower Gleann Charadil.

Davaar Island is a small, inhabited tidal island off the east coast of Kintyre. You can access it on foot, twice a day, *according to tide times.  Be very careful!

Read more about Davaar here.

Davaar Island is 1 of 17 tidal islands that can be walked to from the Scottish mainland.  The Dhorlin  (the local name for the causeway) is exposed twice a day at low tide. Tides change with the moon & are different every day. It’s imperative you don’t get stuck on the island so do check the times and set alarms on your phones etc.

The island is really very small however on here you can find cliffs, caves, a lighthouse, hill and rentable cottages.

Eigg is one of the Small Isles, in the Scottish Inner Hebrides. It lies to the south of the Isle of Skye and is 5 by 3 miles. It is the second largest of the Small Isles after Rùm and also Britain’s most eco-friendly island . You may recognise it from the iconic, high Sgurr of Eigg ridge that dominates the otherwise relatively flat skyline.

You can catch two ferries here. One from Mallaig and the other from Arisaig but you cannot take your own car. Instead, you can hire bikes and kayaks from Eigg Adventures although it should only take ninety minutes to cross the island on foot. Arisaig Marine runs cruises lasting 2-5 hours ashore Eigg, Muck and Rum. Operating from April until late September and departing Arisaig at 11am. You must pre-book, telephone: 01687 450224. The harbour office at Arisaig also contains a tea room, showers, toilets, shop and a laundrette.

The weird and largest UK pitchstone Sgurr Ridge (An Sgurr) is 1292 feet and if you can hike up, gives wonderful views of fellow islands Muck and Rum.  Eight other hikes are mentioned here on WalkHighlands.   The Massacre Cave (frequent rockfalls) is a reminder of the island’s darkest hour but the Cathedral Cave shows that persecution continued.  Walk along Laig Bay, a large white beach which faces the Cuillins of Rum and gives a distinct and memorable view of the west coast of Scotland or make the sand sing at the Singing Sands, a quartz beach surrounded by geological formations.

Eigg is the busiest of all the Small Isles of Scotland and there are lots of places to find great food. The Galmisdale Bay Cafe, Bar and Restaurant by Eigg pier has scrumptious food and regular music sessions, Lageorna Restaurant and Rest And Be Thankful in Cleadale whilst the  Isle of Eigg Shop stocks a wide range of local produce and fresh foods and you can even buy Organic veg from Eigg Organics and Eiggy Bread’s heat-up ready meals.

Eigg is home to a vast array of musicians, craft workers, writers, film-makers and photographers.  It has its own record label and artist residency, craft shop co-operative, an annual  Fèis , the  Howlin Fling Festival   and a regular   programme of concerts, ceilidhs, plays, workshops and films. If you’re looking to get creative have a go at basket making with  All About Willow,  take a dance lesson with Donna the Piper or learn how to make felt with  Libby Galli.

Focusing on travelling to 99 islands which have transport links and another 54 with limited transport, this is a great book for those wanting to Island Bag!

Easdale Island  is the smallest permanently-inhabited island of the Inner Hebrides , off Scotland’s west coast. Known as being part of the Slate Islands or ‘the islands that roofed the world’ they produced over 9 million roofing slates per year and they were all carved by hand.

Although the slate industry is long since gone, there are plenty of reminders from this industry; the wooden pier, the crane in the square in Ellenabeich, the flooded quarries and there’s still slate everywhere. The first written record of slating on Easdale is from the 17th century. As well as being exported globally, the slate from these islands was also used on some iconic Scottish buildings, such as Ardmaddy Castle, Castle Stalker, Cawdor Castle and Glasgow Cathedral.

To get here you’ll need to drive over to Seil and then catch the ferry from Ellenabeich. Leave your car in the Ellenabeich Car Park as Easdale is a car-free island. Don’t worry though, it’ll only take you about an hour to walk around the island on foot. In order to summon the ferry, you’ll need to push the button in the wooden hut and small boat will arrive shortly into the harbour to fetch you. How’s that! A private ferry to a tiny island and it only takes 5 minutes too.

Your first sight will be the rows of brightly coloured wheelbarrows. These are not for drunken escapades but for transporting your stuff around the island which consists of quaint stone cottages, a picturesque harbour and several flooded quarries. Most were flooded by the big storm in the 1800s which led to the general decline of the islands but are now used as swimming pools.

The Easdale Folk Museum is a community-run museum which gives insight into the history of the small islands through video and photos from Victorian times.  There’s a small craft shop at the back of the museum which is stocked by a local knitter.

Easdale has a peculiar championship and that’s the World Stone Skimming Championships. Every year, hundreds of people come to the island in September to compete. Last year there were over 300 contestants. In September there’s also an arts festival (with music and theatre) in the community hall and at the heart of the island is the award-winning Puffer Bar and Tearoom.

If you go beachcombing, look out for wildlife sightings too. Seals and dolphins can frequently be seen, occasionally sea otters, basking sharks and minke whales too. Many species of birds can be sighted from the island including shags, buzzards, golden eagles, white-tailed sea eagles, kestrels, ravens and many different gulls. Seafari Adventures make several boat trips per day from Ellenabeich out to the famous Corrywreckan Whirlpool where whales, seals, dolphins and sea eagles are regularly spotted.

Learn more about the Slate Islands with this guidebook

Eilean Shona

Eilean Shona is snuggled tightly into the entrance of Loch Moidart in the Inner Hebrides. The island is between three and four hours drive from both Glasgow and Inverness although the island itself is a car-free zone.

The island is privately owned by Vanessa Branson (Richard Branson’s sister) who bought it in 1994 for a cool £1.3million and this Isle of Scotland consists of over two thousand acres of land with eight cottages and an eleven bedroomed main house. Yet, this is not the only claim to fame this island boasts. In 1923 JM Barrie visited and wrote the 1924 film adaptations of Peter Pan here!

Vanessa wrote a book about her journey on Eilean Shona which is a compelling blend of memoir and family history, lifting the veil on how the other half live in detail.

Accommodation is booked directly through the Eilean Shona website.   If you wish to stay here, your days will be filled with cooking lessons, drinking around campfires, crabbing, wild swimming and jumping off the jetty, painting, reading, hiking on the forest trails, picnicking, kayaking, nature watching and photography. 

It sounds blissful!

Read Vanessa Branson’s account of Eilean Shona island life.

Sandwiched snuggly in between the mainland and the island of Lismore at the entrance to Loch Creran, Eriska is a flat tidal island which is privately owned and run as a hotel. See the map just below this to book the hotel.

Located a mere 20 minutes north of Oban, the only hotel on the island, the Isle of Eriska Hotel is separated from the mainland by a wooden bridge. It is surrounded by 300 acres of land, deer roaming around and, occasionally, there are sightings of a local golden eagle.

The hotel offers a gym, indoor and outdoor sports halls, a swimming pool, tennis, squash & badminton courts, bowling and football as well as sea kayaking, boat trips, archery and axe throwing.

Read about the story of Eriska Island and admire the beautiful photos

Officially the most remote, inhabited Isle of Scotland in the UK, this hilly and barren island lies halfway between the Shetland and Orkney archipelagos. Owned by the National Trust for Scotland it is known for its 200m high cliffs on the west coast.

Fair Isle is just three miles long by one and a half miles wide and the island is home to just sixty people. In order to get to this small Scottish isle, you’ll need to first travel to Shetland and then either go by the Islander Plane (an 8-seater plane) or take the 2.5-hour ferry from Grutness Pier to Fair Isle. Travel can be disrupted by the weather though! During the summer months, Loganair offers flights from Kirkwall (Orkney) to Fair Isle twice a week.

This Scottish Island is home to a remarkable range of wildlife (in particular rare birds), historic lighthouses and shipwrecks, as well as the distinctive Fair Isle knitwear. To learn more about birds here, you can visit the Bird Observatory and hear about the island’s resident puffin colony, as well as 300-plus other bird species that nest in the steep coastal cliffs. Some of these include fulmars, kittiwakes, razorbills, guillemots and black guillemots. Birdwatchers can also visit the George Waterson Memorial Centre and Museum , dedicated to the observatory’s founder. The museum contains a large array of artefacts, telling the story of the island’s past. It’s a great place to visit.

Local craftspeople are happy to show visitors their work if they pre-book. There are a number of knitwear shops: Exclusively fair isle with Elizabeth,  Fair Isle Knitwear with Mati and Fair Isle Textiles with Kathy and local artist Tommy’s Art Gallery.

Due to its size, Fair Isle is the perfect place to explore on foot and there are many stunning coastal walks here. There are island maps available from the shop or the bird observatory. You could also visit the North Haven and North Lighthouse and the South Lighthouse. Tours of the lighthouse can be arranged with the Fair Isle Lighthouse Society .

There is only one shop on the island; Stackhoull Stores which also doubles as the local post office. The shop is open every day except Thursday and Sunday in the summer, with reduced opening hours during the winter months. All accommodation needs to be booked through Fair Isle’s website. 

Paul Murton’s book on The Hebrides where he documents a six-thousand-mile coastline and eighty islands.

The Scottish Isle of Gigha which is pronounced “Gee-a” with a hard “g” is another small island at only seven miles by one mile but it is another fabulous example of a successful community-owned and run establishment. There is a population of roughly 200 people and it’s growing! On the 15th March every year, the day the island was purchased by the community, is a chance to celebrate Gigha Day.

This little island does accept cars and campervans but not caravans.  The car ferry to Gigha departs from Tayinloan on the west coast of the Kintyre Peninsula with the crossing taking approximately 20 minutes. There is only one main road running through the island so don’t worry about getting lost! Due it’s size however the island is much better to discover by bike, ( bike hire is available locally) or on foot.

The most southerly of the Inner Hebrides, Gigha was originally named Gudey by the Norse King Hakon.  The name meaning Good Isle or God’s Isle was later adjusted by the Gaels to Gigha. The island is most known for it’s famous and rare rhododendrons which thrive in Gigha’s sunny microclimate at Achamore House which is open to the public all year round.

Gigha has several, stunning sandy beaches and its east coast is particularly sheltered from the wild Atlantic weather by the island of Islay. The most well known are Twin Beaches which are separated by a small peninsula. Bagh Rubha Ruaidh is south facing and Bagh na Doirlinne is north facing. Gaelic is not an easy language to pronounce! Other beaches are the wild, Palm Tree beach which actually has palm trees

Other things to do on Gigha are to visit the ruined Kilchatten Church (13th century), see the large, standing Ogham Stone which has a Pictish inscription, hike the miniature hilltop summit (Creag Bhan) and admire the superb views over to Islay.

Where can you eat on the island of Gigha? The Boathouse Restaurant, the bar in the Gigha Hotel, Gigha Gallery before the ferry and the island shop, Ardminish Stores and Wee Isle Dairy which makes ice-cream.

Read more about our day trip to Gigha here

Great Cumbrae

Roughly four miles long and two miles wide, Great Cumbrae is just a short ferry trip from Largs,  an eight-minute sailing to be precise and the ferry takes cars and campervans. However, the medal of honour goes to those people who cycle the quiet 10-mile road around its circumference. Cycle hire  is available from the main town of Millport

The island has only one town, Millport, which has a Victorian promenade which curves around the bay. It is home to Britan’s smallest cathedral, the  Cathedral of the Isles , which was completed in 1851.  Garrison House is home to the  Museum of the Cumbraes and here you can learn about the history of Millport, 18th-century smuggling tales and gain an insight into island life during World War II at the Robertson Museum & Aquarium , you can see local marine life that is found on the island.

When you get out and explore, you’ll see randomly decorated rocks, handprinted to depict faces and creatures. Look out for the crocodile that sits at the beach in Millport. Exploring on bike or on foot is the best way to see the local wildlife, which includes seals, owls, polecats, kestrels and the occasional sea eagle and basking sharks. One way to make it even more fun is to do a Treasure Trail around Great Cumbrae, you can download it and print yourself or get them to send you a hard copy.

Cumbrae is a must-visit island for anybody who likes outdoor adventure.  Home to the Sportscotland National Centre for Watersports you can try yachting, dinghy sailing, windsurfing, powerboating, kayaking, open canoeing and stand-up paddleboarding. It has a number of beautiful bays and beaches which make watersports a joy; Ballochmartin Bay, Butter Lump, Kames Bay & Fintray Bay.

If you want to visit during Cumbrae’s annual Millport Country Festival . you should visit in September. The music festival has been running since 1995.

More lovely photos from Great Cumbrae’s shipping past

The Isle of Grimsay is smothered in the loving bosom of its neighbours North Uist and Benbecula and is connected by a causeway that links North & South Uist. The island is four miles long and two miles wide and holds a sheltered position in the Outer Hebrides.

The Uists are a chain of more than 100 rocky islands and around 27,000 people are scattered across 15 inhabited islands with 5,000 on the Uists. The Uists comprise of Eriskay, South Uist, Wiay, Benbecula, Ceallan, Ronay, Grimsay, Baleshare, Kirkbost, Oronsay, Vallay, North Uist & Berneray and most are connected through the causeway.

A flight from Glasgow to Benbecula Airport takes less than an hour. There are multiple car ferries: Uig (Skye) to North Uist (1hr 45), Uig to Lochmaddy (Benbecula), Castlebay (Barra) to Oban, Mallaig & Oban (mainland) to Lochboisdale (South Uist) and inter-island ferries like Leverburgh (Harris) to Berneray (North Uist) and  Eriskay (South Uist) with Ardmhor (Barra).

Grimsay is a small rocky island and there isn’t a huge amount to do on it but it is connected to other, larger islands which are close by. There is a public bus service but buses can be irregular.

Visit the site of the  Bagh nam Feadg Grimsay Wheelhouse  – an iron age structure with a central chamber and surrounding cells or take in the busy harbour of Kallin which was built in 1985.  The Kallin Canteen in the Old School building serves hot drinks and hosts cultural events. The Grimsay Boatshed is also open to visitors with regular exhibitions and events, centred around the everyday work of the traditional Grimsay style boatbuilding and repair.  Also visit Hebridean Candles on the other side of the island.

There are no sandy beaches on Grimsay, like there are on other Uist islands, but there are lots of rock pools for you to discover. Keep an eye out too for the mobile cinema which tours around the islands.

Handa (Abandoned)

Located off the north-west tip of Scotland’s mainland, Handa Island is no longer populated. At the height of the population, 65 people lived here in 11 blackhouses which can still be seen off the main footpath. A small chapel was built on one of the beaches to the south-east, the beach was later named ‘beach of the temple’. The inhabitants of Handa reared livestock, grew produce, shore fishing and also harvested birds and eggs from the cliffs as a food source. Despite their varying food sources, a potato famine in 1848 led to the population decline and by 1851 the majority had immigrated to Nova Scotia, Canada.

In spring, the cliff tops of Handa Island is a sanctuary for birds; Guillemots, razorbills, kittiwakes, fulmars and Arctic terns nest alongside the puffins and, by summer, the island reverberates with the sound of 100,000 breeding seabirds, one of north-west Europe’s largest colonies. There are around 250 breeding pairs of Atlantic Puffins on Handa Island and the cliffs reach a stagger 115 meters (328 ft) in height.

In the warmer months, a small passenger ferry runs daily from Tarbet across the Sound of Handa to the glorious beaches of Port an Eilean and Traigh an Teampaill on the island’s east. Keep an eye out for Grey Seals, Common Seal, Harbor Porpoise, Common Dolphin, Bottlenose Dolphin, Killer Whale (Orca), Basking Shark, Eurasian Otter and Minke Whale.

Not far from the landing site, the  Scottish Wildlife Trust’s visitor centre is a good starting point for a circular walk around the island.

If you’re wanting to Scottish Island Bag, get this book to log your thoughts and discoveries of 155 islands.

Hirta (Abandoned) (St Kilda)

An island in the St Kilda archipelago in the Outer Hebrides, Hirta is the westernmost group of islands about 41 miles from its nearest neighbour, the Isle of Harris. Hirta is uninhabited but you can still visit.

This Scottish island has 9.3 miles of coastline and is less than 2.5 square miles in land size but is the largest of the St Kilda islands. Due to the island’s distant location, it’s known as the island on the edge of the world. The island was populated until 1930 when they left, however, the British Navy set up a base on the island. Although there are still no permanent residents, the military defence base remains and is permanently manned.

Hirta has been named a dual UNESCO World Heritage Site thanks to the history of human life and the globally significant colonies of more than 100,000 seabirds. It is a harsh place to visit so make sure you wrap up warm and pack multiple layers if you’re visiting here and don’t forget to take your own food to.

Hirta only receives 2500 visitors a year.  Things to do and see include visiting the blackhouses and crofts, take time in the museum to learn about St Kildans, walk up Conachair Hill, check out the vertical sea stacks nearby which St Kildans used to climb for eggs!

Most trips last four hours but you can stay longer. The National Trust run a campsite but you must bring absolutely everything you’ll need as it’s pretty basic

If you want to visit, you can take a boat from Oban on the mainland, Uig on the Isle of Skye, or Leverburgh and Tarbert on the Isle of Harris, book a tour  or The National Trust for Scotland also runs a multi-day cruise.

The island runs regular programs for researchers. This researcher documented his trip to Hirta to care for Soay Sheep. 

Learn more about this harsh and deserted island by reading the Island of Wings, set on the island of Hirta.

The tiny island of Inchcolm is just a short distance from Braefoot Bay, Fife. It lies in the Firth of Forth estuary between Edinburgh and Fife. It is in fact 1 of 10 islands situated off the east coast here.

It is currently managed by Historic Scotland and although you can buy tickets for a boat trip if you want to go ashore you must purchase a separate landing pass. If you have a membership with Historic Scotland or an Explorer Pass, landing at the island is free.

Inchcolm was an important religious isle and has a history of thousands of years. Inchcolm means ‘Island of St Columba’ in Gaelic due to the Irish Saint visiting the island in around 567 AD.

The island has an incredibly well-preserved monastery, which was founded in 1123 by Alexander I. You can climb the narrow spiral staircase inside the Bell Tower for views out over the island. The monastery was rebuilt in the Middle Ages and was used as a mortuary in the seventeenth century. Don’t forget to visit Hermit’s Cave too and the little chapel. There are ruins of various military structures around the island and war shelters still exist which were used by the soldiers during WWII to stay under protected cover.

To get here you can book tours with Edinburgh Boat Charters , Maid of the Forth and Forth Boat Tours.

The island on Inchkeith lies in the Firth of Forth estuary off the coast of Edinburgh. The island is believed to have been used by people for at least 400 hundred years. Its most recent use was during the World Wars when the island acted as a defence against visiting ships sailing up the Firth of Forth. The majority of buildings left on the island are left-overs from Military Occupation.

The island also served as a quarantine zone on several occasions. In 1497 sufferers from the contagious disease ‘grandgore’ were sent to Inchkeith Hospital. Plague victims were also dispatched to the island in 1580 and 1609 while in 1799 Russian sailors were buried on the island after dying from an unknown disease.

IN 1549 Inchkeith was visited by Mary, Queen of Scots, the day after a combined force of French and Scottish soldiers recaptured the island from Italian mercenaries. Mary landed and saw ‘three and four hundred of her dead foes still unburied’. A castle was then built to house the Queen’s French troops but was later turned into a prison and then finally a lighthouse in 1808.

You can privately sail or canoe to INckeith or book a tour with Forth Sea Safaris. Edinburgh Boat Charters, 

Things to see on the island include the harbour looking towards the Forth Bridges and Edinburgh, many gun emplacements, a west fort with underground tunnels, a lighthouse, old houses in varying degree of rot, a helicopter pad and spectacular views over the Firth of Forth and the North Sea.

Inchmickery

About 2 miles north of Edinburgh, a short distance from Crammond Tidal Island is another island situated in the Firth of Forth. This is the island of Inchmickery which is now an RSPB reserve. Inchmickery is only 100 metres by 200 metres in size. Its name comes from the Scottish Gaelic, Innis nam Biocaire, meaning Isle of the Vicars, implying that there may have been an old ecclesiastical or Culdee settlement there.

The island of Inchkeith has a bizarre and cruel history that starts in 1493 with a tale of King James IV removing a deaf and non-communicative woman to the island with her two infants. He thought that when the children would start to speak, it would reveal their original language, the language of the gods. We don’t know what happened to this woman and her children but by 1555 there was a joke that Inchkeith should be renamed ‘Island of the women’ because there were so many there. Other names for the island have been ‘Island of horses’ and ‘Island of god’ due to the many horses and women maintaining a fortress intended to defend the Forth with artillery.

The small island resembles a warship due to the number of small buildings on it from the World Wars when the Firth of Forth was deemed to be an area prone to attack by the German Navy. The buildings housed guns to defend the Forth in the event of an attack which fortunately never occurred.

The island of Inchmickery was fortified in 1915 and specifically to cover the anti-submarine boom that ran from Burntisland Sands to Cramond Island. The guns of Inchcolm and Inchmickery were first manned on 16 March 1915 and remained in place until after WWII.

To get here you can take a tour with Edinburgh Boat Charters, Forth Tours, Seafari Edinburgh   and Maid of the Forth.

I have incredibly fond memories of this island as we used to visit regularly when I was a child. Iona is a small island, 3 miles long, nestled into the arm of larger island, Mull in the Inner Hebrides.

To get here, you’ll need to catch a small passenger ferry from Fionnphort, Mull which takes about 10 minutes. No tourist cars are allowed on the island so be prepared to call the island’s one taxi or walk to your accommodation. Iona is home to a population of around 125 full-time residents, two hotels and a scattering of shops.

A series of recent discoveries show that this sacred Scottish isle was not abandoned following the brutal Viking raids of the early 9th Century with monastery life instead continuing and a centre for metalwork being established.

Iona is known as the spiritual home of Scotland’s Christian community due to St. Columba (an Irish monk who brought Christianity to Scotland), who landed here in 563 AD and founded a monastery. His cloisters have become renowned for learning, as monks began Ireland’s treasured Book of Kells   here before taking it over to Kells in 807 CE.  If you’re interested in history, visit the Heritage Centre, the Abbey & nunnery, the 12th century St. Oran’s Cemetary to see the graves of 60 Scottish Kings such as Macbeth and St Columba’s Bay.

The island is a haven for artists and there’s a number of shops and galleries you can visit here: Iona Craft Shop, Historic Scotland Shop, Iona Gallery & Pottery, Aosdana, Iona pebbles arts and crafts and Oran Creative Crafts.

The island is small enough to walk around, I did this from as young as 5 years old and the beaches here are a true paradise. Some of my favourites are Port Ban, North End and Bay at the back of the Ocean.  The highest point of the island (100 metres) is Dun I (pronounced Dun Ee) meaning ‘hill of Iona’ and the view from the top is splendid on a clear day.  There is also an old marble quarry which was abandoned in 1918. The huge marble blocks that are left are good for a picnic or hot drink and a small gunpowder house is still standing too.

Iona’s sparse population means that wildlife thrives on Iona. Sighting on seals, otters, peregrine falcons, Minke whales, pilot whales, humpback whales and basking sharks have all been spotted here. Bring your canoes and paddleboards as the eastern side of the island is sheltered and there’s a number of small white sand bays you’ll want to explore.

If you’re looking for day trips whilst here, the uninhabited island of Staffa and the prehistoric Fingal’s Cave is a short boat ride away or take a slightly longer trip out to the Treshnish Isles.

Islay (pronounced Eye-luh) in the Inner Hebrides is world-famous for one thing above everything else and that’s its whiskey with its distinct smoky, peaty taste.

The best way to reach the island is by car ferry from Kennacraig (Kintyre) to Port Ellen (2 hours 20) or Port Askaig (1 hour 55).  On a cloud-free day, the views over Jura are simply astounding. 

When you arrive into Port Ellen, you immediately notice large warehouses which are the former Port Ellen distillery. Port Ellen was established as a malt mill in 1825 and then developed as a distillery from 1833 to 1892. These listed buildings give you a glimpse at one of the most important economical branches of Islay and whilst you’re here, you should definitely not miss a tour of a distillery. 

Eight distilleries are still active today where you can take a tour of the buildings and experience how the Scottish “water of life” is made. The distilleries of Laphroaig (which holds Prince Charles’ warrant), Lagavulin and Ardbeg can be easily reached on foot from the ferry in southern Port Ellen and are located a few kilometres away. In the northeast of the island near Port Askaig, you will find the distilleries of Bunnahabhain and Caol Ila, in the west Bowmore, Bruichladdich and Kilchoman. Bowmore is the oldest distillery on Islay, founded over two centuries ago in 1779.

Besides the distilleries, Islay island is a good place for nature lovers and the tourist association has created over twenty hiking trails. Anglers, bird watchers and cyclists also get their money’s worth here as the island has 130 miles of coastline and surprises with great, fine sand, beaches and the chances are you will be the only visitor. 

The island’s historical sights include the early Christian cross of Kilnave, the chapel of the same name, as well as the ruins of Finlaggan Castle, a former mansion and an important scene of Scottish history. Visit during May’s annual  Fèis Ìle , or the Festival of Malt and Music ad you’ll be rewarded with a glimpse of true Scottish island life. 

Is there any possibility to island-hop? Absolutely! From Islay, you can do a cruise around the Hebrides and visit other islands in the region. One special destination is Jura, another island famous for Whisky. Only around 180 people live there and the island is only accessible from Islay by ferry. 

Written by Phil from Journication.   See more from Phil on Facebook. 

Want to learn more about Islay? Buy this book called ‘Whisky Island’ which is a portrait of Islay.

Isle of Scalpay (Outer Hebrides)

The Isle of Scalpay in the Outer Hebrides is not to be confused with the Scalpay (Skye) in the Inner Hebrides! If you’re researching Scalpay, please make sure you choose the right island otherwise you might be disappointed! This is the island where Bonnie Prince Charlie was given refuge during his flight to Stornoway and over to France after his defeat at Culloden in 1746.

The Isle of Scalpay is located in the Outer Hebrides, nestled into the south-east corner of Lewis & Harris. It is connected to the island of Lewis & Harris by the Sclapay Bridge. The island used to be privately owned by was gifted to the residents by its owner, Fred Taylor, in 2012. Scalpay is around 4 kilometres (2.5 miles) long and rises to a height of 104 metres (341 feet) at Beinn Scorabhaig. The main settlement on the island is at the north, near the Scalpay Bridge, clustered around the North Harbour ( An Acairseid a Tuath).

The population is slowly declining and is roughly 250 and there is just one community shop Buth Scalpaigh and one cafe Island Dainties. However, the award-winning North Harbour Bistro is not just another cafe. They do nothing vegan but their menu can be found on Facebook. 

The iconic, red and white striped lighthouse of Scalpay, Eilean Glas is one of the earliest lighthouses in Scotland. It used to be lit using whale oil and whales were hunted from this point. It takes about 20 minutes to walk to and from here you will have views over the Minch and Little Minch (which separates the Outer Hebrides from the Isle of Skye)  and on clear days you can see the Shiant Islands which are home to huge numbers of nesting seabirds.  From here, keep a lookout for dolphins, porpoise, Minke whales and basking sharks.

There’s plenty of self-catering accommodation on Scalpay and also the Scalpay Bothie for campers which overlooks the lighthouse. One thing to note is that the island is ridiculously religious and everything shuts on a Sunday, including the kids’ playpark to observe the sabbath.

Islay’s nearest neighbour is a spectacular wilderness and rugged beauty where the wintery snow-capped Paps of Jura loom over the landscape. There’s just one small hamlet with its famous whisky distillery and now the island has a Gin distillery too.

Jura is a long and relatively large island; 30 miles long and 7 miles wide. At its peak in the 18th century, the island was home to around 2,000 people, however, these numbers dropped dramatically and now there’s just short of 200 inhabitants.

The island’s only town is Craighouse where you’ll find a distillery and a hotel that overlooks a picturesque beach and to get here you can catch the council-run car ferry from Islay.  You can join a distillery tour when you visit Jura but you must book ahead at   Lussa Gin and Jura Whisky Distillery.   In the town, there’s a community-owned cafe, Antlers,  that has a craft shop and displays on Jura heritage. 

Some of you may know that George Orwell lived on the island for 6 months in 1946 when he wrote 1984. The house he stayed in, Barnhill Farmhouse is located in the north and can be rented. It’s so remote you’ll need a 4×4 to get there though.

Jura is full of wildlife a visit here will guarantee you sightings of herds of red deer because they outweigh people 25-1. It’s estimated there may be above 5000 red deer on Jura. It’s also a hot spot for white-tailed eagles. The island also has a church with an array of black & white photos and the Jura Music Festival is held in September.

At the very northern tip of Jura, you will find the noisy Corryvreckan whirlpool. The whirlpool is a natural phenomenon caused by tidal flows between the islands of Jura and Scarba. I is the 3rd-largest in the world.

Will you hike the famous three Paps of Jura ? Or maybe you’ll fell race and run over the three of them.  The tallest pap is Beinn an Oir which stands at a 2,576 feet.

Buy the Rough Guide to the Scottish Highlands & Islands. 

One of the Lorne Islands, alongside Lismore, Kerrera is a small island 400m off the Oban coast. The island is around 7 km (4 miles) long by 2 km wide and is separated from the mainland by the Sound of Kerrera. The north and south of Kerrera island are not connected by road, just footpath.  For this reason, the rugged terrain on Kerrera makes it suitable for only mountain bikes and hybrid bikes.

The island is somewhat of a success story and has been able to grow its population by 100% in the last four years. The island has a full-time resident population of 68 which swells during holiday time.  The community were also able to purchase the old primary school building in the centre of the island and plan to turn it into a multi-purpose community centre.

A foot passenger ferry is available from Gallanach on the mainland onto the island. It is a small ferry and limited to 12 passengers at a time. The first ferry is at 8:40 am and the last ferry is at 6 pm.

Things to do on the island include hiking to the island highest point Carn Breugach at 189 m (620 ft), watching otters on Slatrach Bay, hiking to the ruined castle of Gylen (Built in 1582 by the Clan McDougall), visiting Horseshoe Bay where King Alexander II died in 1249 and climbing on the shipwreck.

There are not many places to eat on this small island but in the north of the island is the Oban Marina with Waypoint Restaurant and Ardentive Farm selling island produce. In the south, you can visit the Kerrera Tea Garden near the castle.

Near Oban is the Puffin Dive Centre where you can hire gear and book dives.

Lewis & Harris

The Isle of Lewis and Isle of Harris is the main island in the Outer Hebrides. They may sound like two separate islands, but Lewis and Harris are two parts of  one island. The boundary between Lewis and Harris runs for about 6 miles (9.7 km), where the island narrows between Loch Resort and Loch Seaforth. You will find on the island sandy beaches, cliffs on the wild coastline, ancient standing stones, and fantastic Gaelic culture.  The largest town is Stornoway on the east coast.

You can get to Stornoway by daily car ferries from Ullapool on the mainland. The port of Tarbert on Harris is linked to Uig on the Isle of Skye by daily ferries so, it’s a perfect idea to combine a road trip between both islands. It’s also possible to get to Lewis and Harries by plane. The island’s airport lies just a few miles from the Stornoway with regular flights arriving and departing from Glasgow, Edinburgh, Aberdeen, Inverness, and Benbecula.

Lewis and Harris Island is a perfect destination for a weekend trip. But you will find activities even for a more extended stay. If you go there on the weekend, it is essential to know that most shops and businesses are closed on Sunday.

The best way to get around the island is by car or motorhome. The roads are of good quality but narrow. Many of them are single track, with plenty of passing places. It is also bus service between Mondays and Saturday, connecting Stornoway with many of the island’s other settlements.  Stornoway is the largest town in the Hebrides with a population of around 8000 people. You will find there also the largest selection of accommodation on the island.

Lewis and Harris island has the most beautiful, wildest beaches in Europe. Soft sand flows between your fingers, and clear turquoise waters resemble a tropical paradise. Only stronger gusts of wind make you realize that this is Scotland coastline after all. You can stroll on deserted beaches for hours.

Calanais Standing Stones are older than the Pyramids and also predate England’s famous Stonehenge monument.  Located on the west coast of Lewis, the 5000-year-old Callanish Stones are famous all over the world. They were an important place for ritual activity for at least 2000 years. It is still a mystery why the standing stones at Calanais were erected. Probably it was a kind of astronomical observatory. The Calanais Standing Stones are an extraordinary cross-shaped setting of stones. They are consist of a stone circle of thirteen stones with a monolith near the middle. When you walk between these Neolithic standing stones, you feel the energy of the secret place.

Apart from hidden sandy beaches, the island offers steep cliffs. The Butt of Lewis has cliffs stretching up to 80 feet high. Violent waves bounce off the jagged coast. The roar of the water often drowns out thoughts. But be careful and don’t go to close to the edge, the area gets winds of up to 100 mph. The Guinness Book of Records named it Britain’s windiest spot.

There are several lighthouses on the island worth seeing. Short routes lead to them. One of the most impressive is Butt of Lewis Lighthouse, famous for red bricks. It is close to the village Poertof Nes. The other one fabulous is the quiet Tiumpan Head Lighthouse at the Eye Peninsula. It is perfect for sunset.

Written by Agnes from The Van Escape . See more from Agnes on Facebook.

Alastair McIntosh returns to the islands of his childhood and explores the meaning of the islands and their mysterious wonders.

Lismore or Lios Mòr in Gaelic means the ‘Great Garden’ and is a reference to the damp climate (166cm of annual rain) and fertile ground that amasses here (estimated that there are nearly 300 different types of plants here). Lismore is a 12-mile Inner Hebridean island near Oban.  A protected island situated at the mouth of Loche Linnhe, Lismore once supported a population of 1,400 but now only 160 remain.

The island has three spectacular ruins of its own: Castle Coeffin (13th-century hall-house), Achanduin Castle (13th-century castle) and Tirefour Broch (the best-preserved galleried Pictish brochs in the country) and the island has been inhabited since at least 3,500 BC. A stone axe-head was found here and dated & is now in the Edinburgh Museum. There are a number of duns, forts and cairns on the island.

The Lismore Historical Society opened the  Gaelic Heritage Museum showing an exhibition of island life and a cafe with a balcony.  Adjacent is Tigh Iseabal Dhaidh , a traditional 19th-century cottage. To see the Bronze Age cairns and Iron Age duns visit Balnagown Croft.

To get to Lismore you can catch either a car or passenger ferry. The car ferry from Oban to Achnacroish takes 50 minutes and there are two crossings daily. The passenger ferry takes just 6 minutes and crosses from Point to Port Appin every house.

The Parish Church on Lismore is built from the island’s original cathedral which was burnt down during Reformation. The churchyard has Medieval tombstones and is said to be the burial place of Saint Moluag who came from Ireland in 561AD and created a monastic centre.

Other things to do and see on Lismore include the abandoned kilns, cottages and limestone quarry of An Sailein, Lady’s rock near the lighthouse was the place where Maclean of Duart marooned his wife in 1527. Thankfully she was rescued by local fisherman.

The highest hill on Lismore is Barr Mor (127 metres/400 ft) offering stunning views of Ben Nevis, Port Appin and Loch Etive. Lismore is thus ideal for lazy cyclists and walkers. There are two main towns on Lismore, Achnacroish and Port Ramsay with only scattered residential buildings elsewhere. You can hire bikes here: Lismore Bike Hire

Walking, and cycling, on Lismore offers good opportunities to spot wildlife. The island has an impressive list of birds, around 130 species, and include birds of prey such as owls, hen harriers and buzzards and gulls, shags, guillemots, terns and other sea birds and waders.

Luing is part of the Slate Islands and it lies 15 miles south of Oban and a short ferry trip across the Cuan Sound from neighbouring Seil Island. Luing is 6 miles long and 1.5 miles wide, has two picturesque villages and stunning views over to Belnahua, Scarba and the Garvellachs. It is an ideal location for cycling and has a diverse variety of wildlife, including otters, hares, seals, porpoise and dolphins. There are also regular chances to see buzzards, peregrines, hen harriers and eagles.

Cullipool is the islands largest town where rows of cute, white cottages with colourful doors line the streets and overlook the flooded slate quarries. Cullipool has wonderful sunsets framed by the islands and with the grey slate reflecting all the colours of the sunset.  From here you can visit the remains of Kilchattan Church, Kilchattan Chapel, Kilchattan graveyard and the Atlantic Islands Centre. The building sits of the edge of a flooded slate quarry and you’ll find exhibits about the islands’ wildlife, geology, and slate industry. Upstairs is the Luing History Exhibition with a cafe and gift shop.

The best way to explore this island is by bike and you can hire them from the Sunnybrae Caravan Park .  The island’s highest point is Cnoc Dhomnuill which is only 94m above sea level! There’s a strange rock formation above a beach called the Cobblers of Lorn and many low level, beach walks and the Luing Store gives out walking maps if you want one.

The Isle of Muck is the smallest of four islands in the Small Isles with its neighbours being Eigg, Rum and Canna. It’s another eco-friendly island and all of its electricity is provided by wind turbines and photovoltaic solar panels from the island.

Ferries leave from either Mallaig or Arisaig and cars are not allowed on the island at all. You’ll be collected from the port, sometimes on a tractor which is exciting, however, the island is only 2.5 miles long by a mile wide so it’s not hard to cover on foot. If you’re feeling brave enough you could hire an offshore RIB operating from Elgol on Skye to both Rum and Canna. Advance booking necessary, telephone 01471 866 244.  Arisaig Marine runs cruises lasting 2-5 hours ashore Eigg, Muck and Rum. Operating from April until late September and departing Arisaig at 11am. YOu must pre-book, telephone: 01687 450224. The harbour office at Arisaig also contains a tea room, showers, toilets, shop and a laundrette.

There are just 40 inhabitants on Muck so there are more cows than people but some things you can do are visit the Craft Shope and Tea Room, see the school & community hall, take meandering walks down to the beach at Cairidh Bay and look for seals at Port Chreadhain.

Some of the spectacular views from here include from Gallanach Bay overlooking Horse Island where a Puffin colony lives.  The island has some semi-wild horses and lots of other wildlife including whales, sharks, dolphins, porpoises & otters and bird-watching includes puffins and eagles. You could walk up to Beinn Airein (425ft) and view the other Small Islands. If you’re looking for a more challenging walk, approach from the west side.

There’s no shop although you can buy produce from honesty boxes. These are mostly meat and eggs though so if you’re vegan you’ll need to take all of your food across with you.  There’s limited accommodation on Muck and you’ll need to book well in advance. Gallanach Lodge and Port Mor Guest House offer evening meals

Charters to other islands are also possible.  There are three cottages to rent on Muck and one bunkhouse and they’re all run by the community. Best to contact them on Facebook for availability. 

The second-largest island of the Inner Hebrides, Mull has a craggy coastline and is easily accessible from the mainland by ferry ports Oban, Lochaline and Kilchoan. Mull is most well known for its brightly-coloured houses in Tobermory, home to the fictional children’s TV series Ballamory.  If you’re visiting Tobermory, there’s also a fine whisky distillery producing the excellent Tobermory and The Isle of Mull Brewing Co.

St Columbus landed in Mull from Ireland in 563 AD and established a church to convert the pagan Scots. It’s lost its place as a spiritual pilgrimage and instead is full of hikers, canoeists and nature lovers.  On Mull, you can see puffins, dolphins, whales, seals, otters, deer, highland cows and birds of prey such as white-tailed sea eagles which are the largest and rarest bird of prey in Britain.

The isle of Mull is shaped like a mini Great Britain on its side, is the fourth largest Scottish island and has an area of 338 square miles. The coastline of Mull is almost 300 miles long and home to six castles. Duart Castle, Torosay Castle, Moy Castle, Aros Castle and Dun Ara Castle are all open to the public.

The pyramid mountains of Ben More and Stob Binnen tower over parts of Mull and will test all but the most experienced walkers but there are tons of walks and hikes to be done on Mull that are not as taxing; Aros Park and its waterfall, Calgary Bay, Lochbuie to Carsaig, Lochbui standing stones and MacCulloch’s Fossil Tree are all cracking walks that take in Mull’s amazing natural charms. Seven Mull walks for everyone details some more walks around Mull.

Mull has some classic Inner Hebridean beaches featuring white sand and wind-swept bays. Calgary Bay has ruined settlements, iron-age forts, a white shell beach and a cafe, Uisken has views out to Colonsay and the Paps of Jura, Port na Ba is gaelic for Beach of the Cattle,  Laggan Sands was voted the 9th best beach in the UK for wildlife spotting but our favourite is Traigh Ghael (Gaelic for white beach). Uisken Beach has a family-friendly Beach Games day in August.

If you prefer to spectate July’s Tobermory Highland Games . with its caber-tossing, hammer throwing and tug of war is fun and October’s Tour of Mull Car Rally is loud!

If Mull isn’t enough, you can take day trips to both the Isle of Iona or the Isle of Ulva.

Orkney is an archipelago of 70 islands off the northeast coast of Scotland, the largest of which is called Mainland. Just 20 of the islands are inhabited, nearly half of which live in the capital of Kirkwall.

My trip to Orkney was the last stop on a  car camping trip  around Scotland and I believe we saved the best for last. Orkney is a rugged place packed with beautiful sea-scapes and over 5000 years of history.

Despite being seemingly remote, Orkney is actually quite straightforward to reach either by ferry or by flight. The ferry from John O’Groats to Orkney takes less than an hour as do flights from all the major Scottish cities. Once on the island, the best way to get around is by car, since the sites are quite spread out. Several days are required to take in all the sights around mainland and Stromness is a good base from which to explore.

Orkney is a top place to visit if you’re interested in ancient historical sites. There are a group of Neolithic sites inscribed by UNESCO, which are collectively known as the Heart of Neolithic Orkney. At the top of the list is Skara Brae. Skara Brae is a 5000-year-old village and one of the world’s best stone-age sites. Then there’s Maeshowe burial chamber whose entrance passageway is precisely lined up with the setting sun on Winter Solstice. Finally, there are the spectacular stone circles of the Ring of Brodgar and the Standing Stones of Stenness, which give Stonehenge and Avebury a run for their money.

Orkney also has a strong Viking history and genetic studies have found that many Orcadians are descended from Norse people. One of the most iconic Viking sites on Orkney is the beautiful St Magnus Cathedral in Kirkwall. This is the most northerly cathedral in Britain. Nearby you can also visit the ruins of the Earl and Bishop’s Palaces.

In order to appreciate the rugged coastline of Orkney, head over to the west of the island and visit Yesnaby. Here you can marvel at the incredulous sea stacks that are being constantly eroded by the elements. Further to the north, you can visit also the tidal island, the Brough of Birsay, which is accessible for 2 hours either side of low tide. This is a top place for spotting puffins in the summer months.

Written by Lou from Wandering Welsh Girl. To see more from Lou, head over to her Instagram .

Where are the best places in Scotland to visit? Illustrated with magnificent photos of Scottish Islands, here are 100 places to visit.

Only 21 people live on this privately owned island located a short distance from the Isle of Skye that sits across the Broadford Bay. There are no ferries and its one of five islands known by the exact same name which makes it very confusing! This island is in the Inner Hebrides and is not Pabbay which is in the Outer Hebrides.

The name Pabay is derived from an old Norse word meaning “priest’s isle” and there are the remains of a 13th-century chapel on the island.  Pabay is roughly 360 acres in size, diamond-shaped and incredibly flat with the highest point (the beacon of Sgeir Gobhlach)  being just 28m/64ft above sea level.  Pabay is known for its unique geology consisting of fossils, Pabba shale and other features. The shoreline at low tide almost doubles the area of the island revealing many geological features including specimens of petrified fish and shells.

Ruins of the 13th-century chapel foundations remain but it is not certain to what saint the church was dedicated. The chapel is small, measuring just 21 feet in length and there appear to have been two other buildings nearby. The most preserved building is an irregular semicircular structure of uncemented stones of large size measuring 9 x 6ft. Little is known about it. The chapel, built originally by St. Columba’s monks fell into disrepair after the monks left when it became a refuge for outlaws ‘ broken men’ and robbers.

Pabay is a flat island with mostly heath, dry grassland, herb marsh, salt marsh, woodland remnants and with the new additions of 75 acres of freshly planted deciduous and coniferous trees, containing 17 different species. For such a small island, it boasts 32 different species of wildflowers, 49 herbs, 40 kinds of grass, sedges, ferns and rushes.

Some of the island inhabitants are otters, seals, 32 breeding bird species and 72 non-breeding birds. There is also a large (semi-uncontrollable) rabbit population and shrews have also been seen.

Interestingly and uniquely, Pabay has a licence to produce its own stamps and in 1996 the island’s owners were paid £1,260 a year by the Post Office to collect and deliver their own post over the sea to Skye. It was last up for sale in 1996 and the description read “Pabay has everything “isolation, privacy and accessibility”. The £395,000 includes 326 acres, a farm with wind and solar power, a harbour, a jetty, and a willing boatman who needs just £50 (plus VAT) to take new residents the two miles to the island from Broadford on Skye.”

Learn more about life on Pabay Island from a geologist and a family visitor of nearly 15 years.

If the Isle of Skye is just too busy for you, head to its smaller sister Raasay! Raasay measures 14 miles by a little over three miles and it has only 170 inhabitants, one distillery and one hotel . It is also described as one of the most geologically diverse landmasses in the world. To the north, the island is surrounded by even smaller islands including Rona, Eilean Fladday (Fladda) and Eilean Tigh.

Raasay (Ratharsair in Gaelic) means Isle of the Roe Deer and to get to Raasay, you’ll first need to go to Sconser (Skye) and catch on of the 9 daily ferries. It is a great island to visit for hiking, cycling, kayaking, birdwatching and generally just getting away from the world. The largest animal on the island is the red deer but other animals include voles, rabbits, otters, seals, dolphins, porpoises, minke whales and orcas as well as white-tailed eagles (sea eagles), golden eagles, buzzards, hawks, tawny owls, starlings, and flycatchers.

The island’s shops are limited to a quirky take-away in a shipping container , The Larch Box (summer months only) and the small Raasay Community Stores in Inverarish. If you’re not staying at the Raasay Hotel, there are a number of AirBNB’s however you can wild camp with a tent. Other shops on the island include The Silver Grasshopper, a silver jewellery artist, The Studio run by an artist and photographer and of course the Isle of Raasay Distillery which produces Whisky & Gin using 10 botanicals, including Raasay juniper. It also employs over 10% of the island’s population.

Other things to do and see on the Isle of Raasay include the Battery, a fortified gun emplacement from 1809 which has stone statues of busty mermaids to accompany it, the cleared villages of Hallaig and Screapadal, the ruins of 15th-century Brochel Castle, Calum’s Road (a 10-mile road built entirely using a hand pick), Rainy’s Wall, St Moluag’s Chapel, the old mining works, Pictish Stone, Dolmen at Eyre Point, Storab’s Grave, and Oar Cave.

Hiking Dun Caan (444m or 1,457ft) is about 9.6 miles/15.5 km and takes approximately 5 hours. A shorter walk is Temptation Hill which is a roughly 2-hour walk where you’ll see the Pictish stone & Iron Age broch along the route.  Cycling is becoming more popular since the 10-hour endurance race, Raasay Rumble, took place. You can rent a bike from Raasay house but you’ll need to pre-book. 

Nice beaches to visit are Inver Beach and  North Bay and there are also two tidal islands you can visit at low tide. However, Raasay House Hotel offers a number of adventure activities including Coasteering, Kayaking, Gorge Walking, Abseiling and Rock Climbing.

Raasay Gin. Doesn’t it look exquisite?

Rona (North) & Sula Sgeir (abandoned)

This incredibly remote Scottish isle is now only inhabited by seals, birds and the sad memory of a tragic settlement wiped out by a series of unfortunate events.

Rona North is located to the far north-west of Scotland with no other island for neighbours. The island lies 71 kilometres (44 miles) north-west of Lewis & Harris (Outer Hebrides)  and 18 km (11 miles) east of Sula Sgeir. More isolated than St Kilda, it is the most remote island in the British Isles ever to have been inhabited on a long-term basis. Its closest neighbour is actually the Faroe Islands and due to the island’s remote location, it is frequently omitted from maps of Great Britain and the United Kingdom.

Few people have been to this island which makes it all the more exciting to visit. Landing here is only possible in excellent conditions and it could take between 3 and 6 hours to reach from Lewis & Harris.  North Rona is just a mile and a half long and has one hill of 108 metres (354 ft), Toa Rona which descends westwards to become a ridge which in turn slopes down to the sea in rocky promontories.

Rona was probably the residence of Saint Ronan in the eighth century. He built a christian oratory built of unmortared stone which survives today  – the best-preserved structure of this type in Scotland.  There continued to be inhabitants through the middle ages but sometime around 1685, the entire population of 30 people was wiped out. There appears to have been a shipwreck close by and rats from the ship were able to make it ashore Rona, devouring all of the crops and possibly passing disease to the residents. Either way, they died of starvation or bubonic plague.   A couple of centuries later, the island was home to a collection of monks and what is likely to be their stone-marked graves are still visible today.

Together with Sula Sgeir, the island is a nature reserve for its important grey seal and seabird colonies. The grey seals use the labyrinth of sea caves along the coast for breeding and shelter. The island is the third-largest breeding ground for grey seals in the United Kingdom. It is also important to the local populations of sea birds including black-billed gulls, puffins, kittiwakes, and guillemots.

Paul Murton is one of few people to visit and document his travels there.  He left from the tiny port of Miavaig on Lewis on what they expected to be a 3 hours journey. Instead, with rough seas, it turned out to be a 6-hour journey with his crew using 25 out of the 28 seasick bags provided! In “Island at the edge of the world”, poet Kathleen Jamie describes a visit to Rona leaving from Kinlochbervie on the Scottish mainland. The skipper warned it would be a bit rough and the crossing lasted six hours across the dark blue sea.

Rona is also integral to Peter May‘s Lewis Trilogy commencing with The Black House (The Lewisman and the Chessmen).

If you’d like to visit Rona and Sula Sgeir you can catch a cruise with Northern Light, North Coast Sea Tours,  and Island Cruising.

Buy whisky from Jura Island.

Rona (South)

To the east of Skye and the north of Raasay, lies the small island of Rona at 5 miles long. No ferries run here so you’ll need to find a private tour or boat operator.

Rona has a permanent population of just two and three unique & stylish shoreside holiday cottages  with the whole island yours to explore! The cottages are hidden away in Dry Harbour, a mile’s walk over the hill from the jetty at Big Harbour.

Rona is an incredible place to escape just about everyone and is a natural paradise. The island of Rona boats a cave, croft ruins, an abandoned village, an incredible coastline, red deer, otters, seals and basking sharks. There is even the island’s own bottling of Edradour whisky.

The northern part of the island is occupied by the Ministry of Defence (Boo!) but if you take a wetsuit you can easily swim and paddleboard around. One of the island’s big draws is its absolute lack of roads, shops and streetlights and thus the night sky on a clear night is phenomenal.

The book ‘ Whirligig Beetles and Tackety Boots ‘ was written by Julia MacKenzie, an ex-Rona resident, although I am unable to find a copy for sale.

See more from this amazing island on Facebook. 

Discover wild Scotland with hidden places.

One of the Small Isles in the Inner Hebrides located south of Skye, the Isle of Rum is eight miles long, shaped like a diamond and pedestrianised.  Visitors to Rum are not permitted to bring vehicles but bikes are fine! If you want to hire a bike whilst there, pre-book with Rum Crafts at  [email protected] .

The main ferries leave from Mallaig (1.5 hours)and prior to this, you could pop into Fort William and see the Glenfinnan Train .  If you’re feeling brave enough you could hire an offshore RIB operating from Elgol on Skye to both Rum and Canna. Advance booking necessary, telephone 01471 866 244.  Arisaig Marine runs cruises lasting 2-5 hours ashore Eigg, Muck and Rum. Operating from April until late September and departing Arisaig at 11 am. You must pre-book, telephone: 01687 450224. The harbour office at Arisaig also contains a tea room, showers, toilets, shop and a laundrette.

The only village on the island is Kinloch which was bought out by the 35 villagers who live there in 2009 (although they’ve been recruiting for more ). The rest of the island is owned by Scottish Natural Heritage. Rum is magnificently wild and rugged so if you’re looking for true natural beauty, you should head here.  Visitor accommodation on Rum includes bothies, B&B, hostel, campsite and glamping huts. The Kinloch Village Campsite is on the waterfront and includes a small wooden shelter, toilets, hot shower and freshwater. You’ll need all camping equipment if you camp or stay in the pods.

There are two mountain bothies about 3 hours walk from Kinloch village. They are maintained by the Mountain Bothy Association and offer basic facilities. Dibidil Bothy has a wood-burning stove and bunks whilst Guirdhil has an open fire and a raised wooden platform for sleeping. You’ll need to bring ALL camping equipment as well as fuel for cooking. You are allowed to wild camp in a tent on Rum but  observe a few basic rules !

In Kinloch, you’ll find the Kinloch Castle which was finished in 1900. The stone was imported from Arran and the gardens are rooted in 250,000 tons of Ayrshire topsoil. You can book a tour to see the opulent interior.  There’s also the impressive Bullough mausoleum. Built in a classical Greek style it seems a bit out of place in the Hebrides. It is possibly the only Doric temple in the Highlands and Islands.

Rum great for hiking, scrambling, biking and running. The footpaths along the coastline are flat ground and great for wildlife watching but the south-east of the island is dominated by the Rum Cuillin, a mountain ridge that is made up of the peaks of Barkeval, Hallival, Askival, Trollaval, Ainshval and Sgurr nan Gillean. For a full day tour try to take in the peaks of  Hallival and Askival ; if you have more time, base yourself at Dibidil bothy and hike the various peaks of the Cuillin from there. Alternatively, the route to  Kilmory Bay in the north is a 16km walk, passing the Kinloch Glen Waterfall and ending at a gorgeous pink, sandy beach overlooking the Atlantic. There are also two caves on the island for you to find.  There are two roads leading from Kinloch to Kilmory and Harris Bay, which offers a total of 11 miles of cycling.

Essential visits are to the Rum Visitor Centre where you can learn about the island’s geology, walking routes and pick up some useful leaflets. It is located by the Old Pier and is open every day during the summer months. There is a small village shop that is usually open in the mornings and evenings and sells basic supplies and  Kim’s Kitchen, which is housed in the community hall in Kinloch. There are a number of craft shops where you can buy locally produced arts and crafts and pay for souvenirs at honesty boxes: Rum Crafts ,  Tattie House Crafts ,  Croft 3 in The Shed .

Other adventurous activities include a mini pelagic boat tour with Rum Ranger Trudi. Tours run on Thursday afternoons between April and September when the MV Sheerwater from Arisaig drops sightseers off on the island. On Thursday afternoons you can also join a 2 hour guided kayak tour to the Island of Soay

Wild red deer and semi-wild ponies roam free and a colony of around 200,000 Manx shearwater seabirds breed on Rum. There are a number of Otter Hides on the island with the most easily accessible being at Loch Scresort. Ponies are most tame around Kinloch Castle and have been recorded on the island since 1772.

Read this autobiography from a nurse on the Scottish Islands

Scalpay by Skye

The Isle of Scalpay by Skye is privately owned and operates a red deer farm, shooting estate and holiday cottages. Much of Scalpay is covered with heather, while other areas are conifer forestry plantations. On a clear day, the view from Scalpay by Skye will take in Pabaay, Raasay and Skye.

There is a permanent population of just four people on Scalpay by Skye and the island boasts 14 miles of shoreline. There are also only three cottages on the island to let between April and October.

Some of the walks on the island include visiting the waterfall beyond the largest loch, Loch an Leoid and a scenic walk along the cliff path with views over the neighbouring islands of Longay and the Crowlin Islands. For history enthusiasts, there is an old Viking Settlement on the island.

Otters are prevalent on this near-deserted island as are red deer, voles, weasels, stoats, fox, bats, seals, porpoise, dolphins and occasionally all types of whales.

Enjoy this Gin from the Isle of Skye and taste Christmas every day!

The Slate Islands are an island group in the Inner Hebrides, lying immediately off the west coast of Scotland. The main islands are Seil, Easdale, Luing, Shuna, Torsa and Belnahua.

Seil Island is located half an hour drive south of Oban and is accessed via the 18th-century humpback Clachan Bridge, popularly known as the ‘Bridge over the Atlantic’. It was built in 1792 for the whopping sum of £450.  Beside the bridge is a pub, Tigh an Truish, or ‘House of the Trousers’, where islanders would have to swap kilt for trousers in order to conform to the post-1745 ban on the wearing of Highland dress & kilts.

The main settlement on the eastern side of Seil is Balvicar, now home to the island’s main harbour. Here you’ll find the Balvicar Stores, Seafari Adventures and Sea Kayak Scotland. The south of the island finds Cuan where you can get the ferry over to Luing.

The largest village on the island is Ellenabeich, in the west, which is picturesque with its hillside backdrop and rows of white-washed, 19th-century workers’ cottages. Ellenabeich is also where you’ll find the Oyster Bar & Restaurant, the Easdale ferry, the Heritage Centre and the departure point for the Seafari trips to the Corryvreckhan whirlpool.

The village’s main attractions are the gardens of An Cala with its glorious azaleas and Japanese flowering cherries in early summer however the heritage Centre is definitely worth a visit as it details historic island life and even provides archives to help with tracing genealogy. It also sells gifts and beautifully painted slate souvenirs.

From  Clachan Seil you can walk past the Tigh an Truish hotel down to the Puilladobhrain Anchorage. A great walk and you’l likely see deer, goats, seals and otters whilst there. This is also a great spot for kayaking.

From Seil you can take a day trip to Easdale and Luing and the other Slate Islands.

Buy Lonely Planet’s Guide to Scotland and The Hebrides

Shetland Isles (Mainland)

The Shetland Islands, previously known as Zetland which is why the postcode starts ZE, are the UK’s hidden secret. Most tourists don’t make it up there because it’s too far or it’s too cold or they don’t have time but I promise you that if you visit these ancient islands, a true adventure awaits you.

The Scottish archipelago of Shetland has over 100 islands but only 15 are inhabited. The islands lie 80 km (50 mi) to the northeast of Orkney, 170 km (110 mi) from the Scottish mainland and 300 km (190 mi) west of Norway. Although they’re far away, the population currently totals 23,000.

Humans have lived in Shetland since the Mesolithic period roughly 4,000 years ago although the islands didn’t become part of Scotland until the 15th century. The Shetland Islands have a unique culture, language and even have their own flag. The colours are identical to those of the flag of Scotland but are shaped in the Nordic cross. The Shetlands are perhaps most famous for their firey festival, Up Helly A a  in January.

The largest island, known as “Mainland” is the third-largest Scottish island and the fifth-largest of the British Isles. It is shaped somewhat like a number 7 and its capital is Lerwick which is very pretty and features quirky lanes. From here you can take a walk down to The Knab and watch whales. Mainland is home to Europe’s largest sandy beach with sea on both sides; St Ninian’s isle. It is a phenomenal sight to see and it’s no surprise that Shetland was awarded Lonely Planet’s Best in Europe 2019 as one of Europe’s top destinations.

In order to geet to Shetland, you’ll need to either fly, take the overnight ferry from Aberdeen to Lerwick (12 hours) or the ferry from Kirkwall, Orkney to Lerwick.

In the south of Mainland, you’ll find the Croft House Museum, a 19th century thatched roofed cottage which depicts Zetland life in the 1800s, Jarlshof Prehistoric And Norse Settlement, a goldmine of 4,000 years worth of history which was revealed after a ferocious storm battered the headland. Here you’ll find a Bronze Age house, Iron Age broch and wheelhouses, Norse longhouses, a medieval farmstead and a laird’s residence from the 1500s and RSPB Sumburgh & the 1821 lighthouse. This area has an abundance of killer whales and puffins, so stay alert!

In Lerwick, you can also visit the Shetland Museum which is found in the historic Hay’s Dock. We recommend coffee at The Peerie Café and you must photograph the Lodberries. Built in 1730 these stone cottages built into the sea make great photos. Thirsty? Stop off at the Lerwick Brewery and sample their most popular beer, the 60° North Lager. Wildlife boat tours leave daily from Lerwick Pier giving you a chance to see Shetland’s vast number of sea birds as well as porpoise, dolphins, otters, seals and whales.

Scalloway Castle is a short distance from Lerwick and its history is riddled with drama and bloodshed. Mousa Island is located to the south-east of Lerwick and holds the best-preserved iron age broch in Europe. It’s 2,000 years old and if you have the chance definitely worth making the trip over.

Mainland is definitely not short of things to do and art is well celebrated. Take a trip up to Bonhoga Gallery which is situated in Weisdale Mill built in 1855.

The Fethaland High Cliffs are to the furthest north of Mainland and here there are ruins of buildings and a magnificent beach. With a walk of about 4.5km, you can see the lighthouse.  If you’re up for some adventure, go on a kayak tour with Sea Kayak Shetland. We recommend a trip to the red granite Ronas Voe fjord. You’ll get to visit The Blade beach and kayak through sea stacks and caves. Alternatively use Adventure Shetland and visit Uyea; a set of phenomenal small islands with the bluest water. As a bonus, you’ll be the only person for miles around!

Shetland has 1,697 miles of coastline, making it a dream for recreational divers and with diverse coves, caves, inlets, stacks, subterranean passages, historic wrecks and amazing wildlife, there’s plenty to ‘sea’!

If you can’t dive but still want to see under the water, Seabirds and Seals boat tour include underwater viewing with a remotely controlled tethered mini-submarine that feeds live colour video images onto display screens in the cabin.

Shiant Islands (Uninhabited)

Although their formal name is Na h-Eileanan Seunta, which means the charmed, holy or enchanted isles, these islands are also referred to as the Bewitched Islands supposedly as they continually change shape according to the weather and visibility which is often poor.

The Shiant Islands are a privately owned island group in the Minch, east of Harris in the Outer Hebrides of Scotland. They are five miles southeast from Harris and approximately 12 miles northwest of Skye.

Over the course of the past 1200 years, the islands have had multiple landlords from the Vikings to author Sir Compton Mackenzie. They were continuously inhabited until the start of the 20th century (when there were 8 full-time residents) although it is now uninhabited. The islands were owned recently by Adam Nicolson who gifted them to his son, Tom, for his 21st birthday. The island only has one small bothie on it.

The main islands are Garbh Eilean (rough island) and Eilean an Taighe (house island) which are joined by a narrow shingle beach. Although Eilean an Taighe was previously called Eilean na Cille (island of the church) prior to the 19th century. There’s also Eilean Mhuire (island of the Virgin Mary) to the east.

The islands have the same rock formation as Staffa Island with black, basalt columns rising high out of the sea for nearly 500 feet. With similar features, there’s also a small cave known as the ‘Doorway of the Seals’ where you can see seals frolicking in the water and basking in the sun. This area is also a hotspot for Dolphins jumping in the waves. Added: The Shiant Islands are a haven for wildlife with over 300,000 seabirds, including puffins, guillemots, razorbills, shags and great skuas. around 10 per cent of UK puffins and 7 per cent of UK razorbills breed here every year. It is estimated that there are between 15,000 and 18,000 guillemots, 8,000 to 11,000 razorbills, between 4,000 and 6,000 fulmars, 2,000 kittiwakes, roughly 1,500 shags, a few hundred gulls of various kinds (whose numbers are rising), 26 great skuas and 240,000 puffins. In July 2009 Europe’s oldest puffin, aged 34, was discovered on the Shiant Islands.

You can either visit the island on a tour or arrange your own charter and stay on the island. You must first contact Tom for permission ([email protected]) although there is no charge for staying. The house is described as extremely basic with no electricity, running water, telephone or toilet however Katie Tunn managed to spend a whopping 37 days on the island. There is a mobile phone signal but you obviously can’t recharge them without solar packs.

If you want to visit the Shiant Islands, you can tour with Hebrides Cruises , Sea Harris, Isle of Harris Tours or Hebridean Whale Cruises.

When it comes to awe-inducing islands in the Scottish Highlands, the Isle of Skye is one of the most photographed and most sought after locations on a road trip through Scotland! With the island being connected to the Scottish mainland via the Skye Bridge , it’s also one of the most easily accessible islands in Scotland.

Many travellers spend three or fewer days in the Isle of Skye, but if you want to be thorough and really get to the good stuff, you should spend a minimum of five days in this area. Honestly though, once you arrive, there is a very slim chance you’ll want to leave, so add on those days and thank me later!

To explore this island in the best way possible, you should either rent your own car or campervan. A lot of people base themselves in Edinburgh or Glasgow, so look in those cities for the best, and cheapest car rentals. The drive from both Edinburgh and Glasgow to Skye is roughly four hours, but it’s incredibly scenic and there are plenty of places to stop and see on the way there like Glencoe Valley and Glenfinnan Viaduct, AKA the Harry Potter Train! There are guided tours that can take you into Skye, but a lot of your time is limited since you’re travelling with a larger group and you won’t get to see as much on these group tours. Plus, it’s so much cheaper to ‘DIY’ your itinerary anyway. Save your coin and see so much more!

With those robust five days on your itinerary to work with, you’ll for sure want to include these epic, highlighted stops: Eilean Donan Castle, Glencoe Valley, the Neist Point Lighthouse, Old Man of Storr , Glenfinnan Viaduct, Kilted Rock, the Fairy Glen, and the Quiraing.

From the Isle of Skye, there are even more island-hopping opportunities to take advantage of. If you have limited time on Skye, I recommend exploring this island as thoroughly as you can before taking on another, however, if you’re adventurous and want to see the best of the best, you can board ferries from the Isle of Skye to access the Outer Hebrides, Raasay, and the Small Isles. If you’re interested in exploring these untouched areas, book your tickets and view the ferry schedule here.

Written by Aaren from What Do You Sea. Read more from Aaren on Facebook. 

Circular walks on the Isle of Skye.

Just off the south coast of Skye, lies a tiny island called Soay. It currently has a population of three and Soay, whose name is derived from the Norse “sheep island”, has always been lightly populated. The population rose after the Highland clearances and in 1851 the population reached a peak of 158 people. It then dwindled steadily and in 1953 the remaining population of 27 asked to be moved to new homes on Mull.

Soay is inaccessible to most travellers as there’s no ferry. You must arrange a private transfer or a tour as the island can only be reached from Elgol on Skye, four miles away, or Mallaig 15 miles away. The island is a rough figure-of-eight shape, four miles long by two miles wide and the highest point is Beinn Bhreac  (140m). The island of Soay has no mains services, shops, jetty or proper road and no public at all.

One of the inhabitants of Soay is Anne Cholawo. A graphic designer, she moved to Soay from London after seeing a cottage advertised in a shop window on the Isle of Skye. Anne went on to write a book about her new home, called ‘Island on the Edge – a life on Soay’.  The island now boasts an incredible love affair and a story of success because a year after Anne’s move to the island, the Royal Marines agreed to airlift her piano from the main island using a Sea King helicopter. This is how Anne met her future husband and the couple married in 2005.

Sadly, the island could stop the closure of its beautiful, stone-built, primary school, despite a huge fight to preserve it and it was finally sold in 2015. The building stands on a raised shingle beach where Vikings used to haul their longships. 

If you’d like to visit this almost forgotten Isle of Scotland, watch an otter trying to eat a crab on the beach or watch the pods of dolphins majestically leaping around its bays, you can book a tour with  Misty Isle Boat Trips or Bella Jane Boat Trips. 

Buy this book written Soay inhabitant Anne Cholawo.

Staffa (uninhabited)

Staffa is 7 miles west of Mull and 6 miles north-east of Iona. It’s only half a mile long by a quarter of a mile wide and now completely uninhabited although in the 1700s, 16 people lived there. The Isle of Staffa can be accessed by boat tours from Fionnphort, Ulva Ferry, Iona, Tobermory, Oban and Kilchoan.

There is perhaps no other site that is so great and as mesmeric as approaching Staffa with its enormous basalt columns flanking the deep caves. Staffa is a volcanic island and the basalt columns formed when a single lava flow cooled around 60 million years ago. If the sea is calm, you should be able to float into Fingal’s Cave and dock. You’re able to explore the island although watch out for its steep sides!

The whole island is dotted with caves and is now are home to black guillemots, fulmars, puffins and the magical Fingal’s Cave puffins that nest in burrows on top of Staffa’s high cliffs. Keep your eyes open for Minke whales, dolphins, basking sharks, grey and common seals and porpoise. Not forgetting some of the smaller species such as the huge variety of plankton that forms the base of this very important ecosystem, crustaceans and jellyfish.

Fingal’s Cave is 72 feet tall and 270 feet deep and if you’re feeling adventurous, you can wild swim in it. Basking Shark Scotland offers a bespoke ‘ Swim Fingal’s Cave’ tour , where you can swim or snorkel into the cave. Floating into the mouth of the cave, looking straight up the basalt pillars and rock formations is impressive enough but if you snorkel, you can see the colonies of marine life underneath you too! If you don’t want to swim, you can also kayak into the cave.

The composer, Mendelssohn is one of the island’s many famous visitors and after visiting he wrote ‘The Hebrides Overture’ in 1832. Its other famous visitors include Queen Victoria, William Wordsworth, John Keats, Lord Tennyson, Jules Verne, Pink Floyd.

This book pays tribute to the remarkable Inner Hebridean island of Staffa and is written by its former owner. He describes the unique rock formations, the natural history, the stream of illustrious visitors and the island’s haunting atmosphere.

Stroma (Abandoned)

Stroma is a short distance from John O’Groats and is now fully abandoned. The island is privately owned but the owner, William Simpson, will take you over for the day for a small fee. Contact here for details. He farms sheep on the island and stays over there for a month during lambing.

In order to get to Stroma, you’ll need to cross the Pentland Firth which is lethal with rushing waters during the tides. Stroma, apparently, translates as ‘island in the stream’ although island in the perilously dangerous waters would be a better description.

Until the early 1900s, the island of Stroma was well populated but the final resident left in 1962 leaving on the lighthouse keeper until 1997.

Once we were on the island we had just over 3 and a half hours to explore. Of course, the priority was the lighthouse so we set off, deciding that we

Things to do on the island include seeing the lighthouse and the presence of the old foghorn buildings, the two towers on the island of Muckle Skerry, the largest of the Pentland Skerries, an old pier and slipway with a rather rusty boat looking ready to be lowered into the sea, the old harbour, a war memorial and of course the derelict houses.

The houses are in varying states of dereliction. Some with their windows and roofs intact others with decrepit walls

Almost immediately the derelict houses appeared, all in varying states – some with their roof and windows semi-intact and others with no roof, windows and barely any walls at all. Only one house still looks intact, the one next to the old manse, which has a bit of a run down telephone box in front of it – a reminder that it wasn’t too long ago that the island was populated.

On the west coast is a Subterranean Passage and The Gloup.  The Gloup is a fantastic huge hole in the ground that is linked to the coast by an underground passage tunnel. It’s a stunning thing to see, especially the vertical, flat cliff above the tunnel entrance. There’s also an old shipwreck, The Golden Promise, which was wrecked in 2011 after the skipper fell asleep. Thankfully everyone was rescued although the boat has been left in place.

DK Eyewitness of Scotland

Swona (Abandoned)

Swona is to the south-west of the Orkney Isles and sits around seven miles north of John o’ Groats and around two miles off the west coast of South Ronaldsay.

Humans lived on Swona since around 500BC with the Vikings among those who settled here. By the mid-18th century, it was home to 9 families, approximately 47 residents lived on the island and it had its own school until 1920. It was last inhabited more than 40 years ago, however. Since the early 1930s, just one family, the Rosies, called it home with the last brother and sister sailing off for the final time in 1974. Sadly they fell ill whilst visiting relatives and never returned to the island.

The island is a mile and a half long by half a mile wide and few traces of human life can be found on the abandoned island although if you explore the abandoned cottages you’ll still find a tea towel hanging on a kitchen range and food packets hiding in the cupboards.

The island is considered a Site of Special Scientific Interest where a number of rare plants can be found but Swona is a hazardous place to reach due to the treacherous tides. You can take tours here with  Ness Ribs.

Learn more about life & death on St Kilda. For more than two thousand years St Kilda remained remote but in the nineteenth century, the islands were discovered by missionaries, do-gooders and tourists.

The Isle of Tiree is the most westerly island of the Inner Hebrides. It is described as ‘Hawai’i of the North’ due to its mild climate (winter temperatures are generally higher than on the mainland, while summer evenings are warm and balmy) and white sand beaches. The island is one of the sunniest places in the UK with the land being highly fertile and crofting, alongside tourism are the main sources of employment for the islanders.

The island is thought to have had a population of around 4,500 but the island’s population took a sharp decline during the Clearances. Tiree now has a population of around 650-700 and whilst you can fly directly here from Glasgow, no island adventure is complete without a ferry ride. The ferry leaves from Oban, 60 miles away (3 hours 50 minute), and the island has a variety of tourist accommodation ranging from luxury hotels to glamping pods.

It is believed that Tiree has been occupied since the Mesolithic times. Numerous Iron Age structures have been discovered on the island, as well as a Viking settlement. The island also has connections to St Columba, who established a monastery there in the 6th century. There are two heritage centres at Scarinish and Hynish which are a must-visit so you can learn about island life through relics, stories, poems, maps and more. Dun Mor Broch is an Iron Age structure and the Ringing stone (Clach a’ Chiore) is plain unusual. This giant stone which sits on Tiree shoreline has 53 carved cup-marks of various sizes, believed to date back to 2,500 BC. When struck, the cup marks emit a metallic ringing sound.

Tiree is 10 miles by 5 miles and Billy Connolly once described it as being “like a bloody billiard table” in reference to its flatness. There are just two hills on Tiree;  Beinn Hynish (141 metres) and Beinn Hough (119 metres). The Skerryvore Lighthouse Museum at Hynish tells the story of Scotland’s tallest lighthouse (48 metres), which stands 11 miles off the coast. Its been operating since 1844.

Tiree has 16 beaches! If beaches are your thing, you’re in for a treat. You can take stand-up paddleboard lessons as well as kite surfing lessons. In particular, Tiree is a mecca for windsurfers and the island hosts Tiree Wave Classic every October.  Gott Bay features many kitesurfers and waves whilst Caloas is the total opposite with its blissful calm. No surprise it’s the least-visited beach on Tiree. At Scarinish beach, the remains of the ‘Mary Stuart’ emerg from the beach where it crashed in 1938. Crossapol beach offers nearly a mile of pristine white sand and Balevullin is the most popular on the island with surfers. Other beaches to check out are Balephetrish Bay, Cornaig Beach and Hynish.

Whilst on Tiree keep an eye out for white-beaked dolphins, minke whales, seals, otters, basking sharks, birds, hares and of course, highland cows. If you want to learn how to windsurf, head to Loch Bhasopol, the second-largest loch on Tiree.

Explore the island on foot, by car or hire an e-bike with Tiree Fitness and  don’t miss the picturesque old harbour at Scarinish. This island doesn’t have a huge amount of restaurants and cafes which adds to its charm. Beachcomber Cafe is near the airport and Farmhouse Cafe is in Balemartine.

The Tiree Music Festival which attracts over 2,000 people is held in July but usually, Tiree is perfect for night skies as there is very little night pollution.  Balevullin has been dedicated as a Dark Sky Discovery Site although Hough, Balephuil Beach, Sorobaidh and Salum are also great spots for seeing galaxies.

For days out off the island Tiree Sea Tours goes to Skerryvore Lighthouse and islands including Staffa, Lunga, Iona, Coll, Mul and the Treshnish Islands. Lunga is the best place in the Treshnish Isles to view the puffins, they can usually be seen from mid-April until early August.

Treshnish Isles

The Treshnish Isles are a scattered archipelago of small islands and skerries, lying west of the Isle of Mull in the Inner Hebrides. The archipelago lies, at its closest, 3km west of Mull and extends for a distance of 11km.

There are eight main islands, the Biggest Islands are Bac Mòr, also known as ‘The Dutchman’s Cap’, the Cairn na Burghs and Lunga – which is the main destination for a boat trip to the Treshnish Isles.

Lunga was populated until the mid 19th century and at the northeast end of the island are the remains of a ruined abandoned village and a small castle. Lunga is designated a Site of Special Scientific Interest because of its abundant plant life, much of which is rare and endangered as well over 6000 birds, of 47 different species, including razorbill, kittiwake, fulmar, great skua and not forgetting the majestic puffin. The Treshnish Isles are also an important Atlantic Grey Seal breeding area but you might also see dolphins, porpoise, basking sharks and whales.

Unlike other birds, puffins don’t build nests. Instead, they dig holes into the soft earth on top of cliffs and hide their chicks underneath away from predators. Puffin eggs hatch between mid-April and early August. These gorgeous little birds have little fear of humans and its possible to get very close to them, although please don’t touch.

Visit these islands with Staffa Tours , Boat Trips Iona , Turus Mara and Tiree Sea Tours.

Grab a Treshnish Puffin calendar 

Uist (North)

North Uist and South Uist (below) are two islands within the Outer Hebrides.  The islands are linked by causeways which run through the Isle of Benbecula and Grimsay (above).  The Uists have maintained their cultural roots and the Gaelic language is frequently spoken here. The islands are a haven for nature and beach lovers alike.

The North Uist ferry runs from Uig on Skye to Lochmaddy (1 hour 45 minutes). You can also catch a ferry from Leverburgh on Harris to Berneray and drive south or from the Isle of Eriskay to Ardmhor, Isle of Barra. If you are taking a car across, you MUST book your ferry beforehand.  DO not just turn up.

North Uist has a significant historic background and whilst you’re here, you can see Barpa Langais, a 5,000-year-old burial chamber of Neolithic descent, the Cladh Hallan Roundhouses where prehistoric mummies were found and Ormacleit Castle which only survived for 7 years before being burned down. There’s also Trinity Temple, a historic ruin, which is also possibly Scotland’s oldest university.

The island is dominated with sandy beaches in all shapes and sizes. Traigh Lingeigh is one of the longest beaches with white sand and clear waters. If you’re brave enough you can swim and snorkel here! Another good sandy beach is Clachan Sands whilst Hosta is pretty rugged with its crashing waves. Both Traigh Udal and Traigh Iar are gorgeous.

Due to the number of lochs on Uist, otters are prevalent and it’s highly likely you’ll be able to see them. The Uists are also home to the largest breeding colony of Grey Seals in Europe and they produce over 9,000 pups every year. If you’re looking to see them swimming, head to Balranald Bay or out on one of the many wildlife watching boat trips around the Uists.  Take a boat trip with Nick from Lady Anne Boat Trips or take a longer trip over to Hirta, St Kilda.  Keep an eye out for dolphins, sea eagles, whales and even deer as they cross to neighbouring islands.

North Uist is not short on the arts either. The Uist Sculpture Trail intertwines art and environment and you can even learn some new skills at the Taigh Chearsabhagh Museum & Arts Centre. Take a visit to Shoreline Stoneware where handcrafted produce is made from flotsam & jetsam found on the shore.

The Hebrides might not be the most common place to seek out a Yoga Retreat but Judith from  Yoga For Life Hebrides is based on North Uist and offers regular solitude retreats.

If you’re looking for somewhere to eat Claddach Kirkibost on North Uist, a community centre and a café sell food as well as delicious homemade jam and chutneys great for taking home or gifts. The carrot cake at the Lochboisdale Café is famous and sells out fast.

Get to know more about North Uist’s history with this book.

Uist (South)

South Uist is the second-largest island of the Outer Hebrides. It sits between the islands of Barra and Benbecula and is connected to North Uist by a causeway that links all of the Uist islands, including Grimsay.

You can get to South Uist by flying to Stornoway (Lewis) or Benbecula & Barra or catching the ferry from Oban and Mallaig to Lochboisdale which is on the east of the island. South Uist is definitely an island for those that love nature and being outside. The east side of the island hosts Beinn Mhor (2034ft) whereas the west side is perfect for beachcombing and water sports.

On the west side of the island, you’ll find Loch Druidibeg with its abundance of plant life and birds. The bird of prey trail takes in all of the Outer Hebrides and has two spots on South Uist for viewing eagles, hen harrier, merlin, redshank, dunlin, lapwing, greylag geese, short-eared owl, buzzard and kestrel.

Whilst on the east side, you can the peaks of Hecla, Beinn Mhor, Beinn Corradale and Ben Kenneth. If you’re into gardening, make sure you visit the historic walled kitchen garden. First built around 1740 the gardens grow fruit and vegetables using seaweed as a compost. They sell produce from the garden year-round.

Other things to see on the island include Ormacleit Castle which lasted a whopping 7 years before being burned down. The Cladh Hallan Roundhouses are the only place in Great Britain where prehistoric mummies have been found and the Bornish Standing Stones

Don’t forget to check out The Kildonan Museum and Heritage Centre which includes a craft shop, a cafe and regularly holds ceilidhs, music and dance. Kildonan Beach is beautiful and long with white sand.

Take a day trip to the Isle of Calvay where the lighthouse is and the remains of a 12th-century castle. The Island was home to Bonnie Prince Charlie for the evening when he fled to the Outer Hebrides after his defeat at the Battle of Culloden in 1746.

You can also go out on a boat with Uist Sea Tours to see puffins, dolphins, porpoise and whales.

A ten-minute ferry from Mull, Ulva was down to its last five inhabitants before it was bought by the local community with a £4.4m grant from the Scottish Land Fund. They advertised for people to come and live on the island and boost their numbers. Almost 500 people registered official interest in becoming residents of Ulva. and many had the skills needed to rebuild a community from scratch: forestry experts, land labourers and one woman who proposed opening a pony-trekking business.  It became the third Scottish island to be bought by the community following Eigg in 1997 and Gigha in 2001.

Ulva is an island where you can uncover the history of the earliest Scottish settlements. Dotted with archaeological dig sites Ulva is steeped in island history set to a spectacular backdrop of land and sea. It is a rugged seven-by-three-mile island where you can be as active as you want. Once a favoured holiday destination of both Beatrix Potter and William Wordsworth, 5,000 daytrippers visit every year.

The island has abundant wildlife where deer, seal, puffin and hen harrier spottings are regular. There are also and more than 500 types of plant native to the islet. Red deer, rabbits and mountain hares, the occasional sea otter, stoat or hedgehog might be spotted at any season.  Ulva’s woodlands, shores and open moors make it an ideal place for bird watching;  the coming of the terns to the small islands south of Ulva to breed, the puffins in the waters west and north of Ulva in early summer, the occasional cry of the Corncrake. Ulva is also home to nesting pairs of White-tailed Sea Eagles, which can be commonly seen on the wing along the coast of Ulva.

Ulva has no shops, no proper roads and the one tin can ferry stops running at 5 pm but things to do on the island include visiting the listed Parliamentary Church, Sheila’s & Livingstones Cottages, the standing stones, Clarke’s Memorial, having tea in the boathouse tearoom, hiking to Livingstone’s cave and walking to the neighbouring island of Gometra which is connected by a bridge. Much of the island is formed from Cenozoic basalt rocks, which are formed into columns in places.  There is also a Victorian reservoir and the sprawling mansion of Ulva House complete with library and south-facing balcony.

Wild camping is allowed on Ulva or you can stay in the Bothies below.

If you’re visiting Ulva and want to know more, buy this visitor’s guide.

Whalsay is the sixth-largest of the Shetland Islands and has been known as the Bonnie Isle since the 19th century when Scots fishermen visited. Situated to the eat, is it five miles long and two miles wide.

The highest point on the island is Ward of Clett (393 feet) and as crofting is not a major industry here, in spring and summer the island becomes alive with mostly pink wildflowers. There a number of gorgeous hikes around the island and summer are definitely the best time to visit.

In order to get here, you’ll need to take the regular 30-minute ferry from Laxo, Lerwick. The crossing to Symbister takes 25 minutes and booking is advisable.

Whalsay has been inhabited since 3000 BC and has a growing population. The island also has some important archaeological sites, a Hanseatic League museum and one of the finest Georgian mansions in Shetland. Yoxie House was at one time believed to be a Neolithic temple but is now thought to be the site of a large farmhouse. Two Bronze Age burnt mounds are near Sandwick Loch and the locally-named Broch of Huxter is the remains of an Iron Age fort.

Also worth visiting are Symbister House which dominates the harbour entrance. The former laird’s house (a grade B listed building) was built from Nesting granite in 1823 and is now the Heritage Centre. The Pier House on the waterfront, a Hanseatic böd used by German merchants, was restored in 1984. Its interior was reconstructed and includes replicas of the period.

Among the wildlife to be spotted on the island are red-throated divers, wading birds, puffins, otters at Houb. Whalsay is among the best places in Shetland to see Porpoises, Dolphins, Minke Whales and Orcas.  GreatSandwick beach is a small and lovely beach found in the south of the island.

Accommodation is limited and there appears to be just one hotel, the Busta House   and there’s one campsite Oot Ower Lounge  .

Spend a figurative year in The Shetlands with Ann Cleeves and her beautiful photography. 

Yell is the second largest island in Shetland after the Mainland. It is 19 miles (31 kilometres) long, with a maximum breadth of 7.5 miles (12 kilometres), and is swept all around by very impetuous tides and big, foamy waves.

In order to get here, you’ll need to catch the car ferry from Toft to Ulsta. The crossing takes 20 minutes although Yell is seldom visited for anything other than a bridge between the Mainland and Unst.

Some of Yell’s attractions are the Old Haa of Burravoe (1672) with its historical artefacts, natural history and other important events on Yell, such as the sinking of the Bauhaus. There is also a tearoom, gallery and shop here. The White Wife of Otterswick is the figurehead of the ship Bauhaus which sank in 1942 standing as a mournful tribute to the lives lost.

Windhouse is an 18th century ruined lairds house perched on a hilltop. It’s famous for being haunted. the Aywick shop, which looks like a warehouse, sells pretty much everything possible. From breakfast to wood and everything in between. nVisit the iron age, Burra Ness broch to see otters and admire the 4m high walls.

Yell has some lovely beaches; West Sandwick Beach, Gossabrough and the Sands of Breckon. The sands have hidden some ancient Viking (and earlier) settlements and the island is (like St Ninian’s Isle) attached to Yell by a double shingle ayre.

Keep an eye out for dolphins, porpoise, killer whales and Humpback whales which are spotted every summer on their migratory route through the Yell Sound. Otters are also a frequent sight.

Accommodation is easier to come by than Whalsay and you can camp at the Burravoe Pier Trust Campsite or wild camp. If you’re brave enough, there’s also camping bods at Windhouse Lodge although watch out for the ghosts.

The Shetland Gallery is the Northernmost Art Gallery in Britain and showcases art and crafts from the Shetland Isles.

Walk The Shetland Islands With This Walking Guide

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Best Scottish Islands for your Scotland trip (+ map and tips)

By: Author Tracy Collins

Posted on Last updated: December 13, 2023

Discover the beautiful islands of Scotland in our complete guide and decide which to include in your Scotland itinerary with our practical tips and information.

Your suitcases are open and ready to be packed, you’ve got all the time off you need and now you’re ready to plan that trip of a lifetime. The question is…where do you want to go?

The possibilities seem endless. Does strolling along a white sandy beach with turquoise water lapping at your toes sound pretty good? Of course, it does.

What about lacing up those hiking boots and powering your way up a mountain or two? Amazing!

You could also visit a remote region with a rich cultural heritage and then take a deep dive into thousands of years of their history.

Wouldn’t it be great if there was a destination where all three of those travel dreams could become a reality?

Pack your bags and visit Scotland for an island-hopping getaway.

Do you dream of visiting the Scottish islands? Unsure of planning your visit independently? Why not take a tour and have the logistics sorted for you? We recommend Rabbie’s award-winning tours including this 17-day island hopping extravaganza which includes Skye, Iona, Orkney & the Outer Hebrides or this 3 day Orkney Explorer tour.

⭐️ Click here for more great tours of Scotland from Rabbie’s

How to choose the best Scottish islands for your trip

Islands of the clyde, shetland islands, orkney islands, the inner hebrides , the outer hebrides , northern orkneys, which of these best scottish islands will feature in your scotland itinerary.

When people think about visiting Scotland , they tend to forget about its islands — 94 are inhabited and 24, in particular, offer a range of sights and activities that will satisfy anyone’s wildest vacation aspirations.

Each has its own character. Most have a wide variety of wildlife and some can boast the best bird watching the world has to offer.

If you like gorgeous scenery, rugged coastlines, moody moors and tranquil beaches, then you won’t do much better. Add in a little whisky sampling, storytelling, epicurean delights and archaeological intrigue to the mix as well.

Whether you have a week or a month, deciding to spend your holidays on the Scottish islands is an easy choice to make. The complication is deciding which islands to visit.

Take the time to consider each group of islands, what they have to offer and which ones will be the right fit for you and your family’s ultimate Scottish adventure.

Introduction to the Scottish Island Groups

On the western coast of Scotland, in the Firth of Clyde, there is a small island group called the Islands of Clyde .

Though there are 40 islands, only four are populated and of those, Bute and Arran are the best known. They may not be as famous as other islands of Scotland but don’t count them out — they’re easy to reach and just as charming.

Arran is often called “Scotland in miniature” and has a little bit of everything Scottish including its own highlands and lowlands.

Bute is smaller and fun to explore, offering dramatic coasts, history and a variety of wildlife.

For those with limited time, the Islands of the Clyde may prove to be your best bet.

You’ll find the Shetland Islands between Scotland and Norway.

There are over 100 islands but only 15 are inhabited, with Mainland, Yell, Unst and Fair Isle being the most well-known. They all share dramatic scenery, like awe-inspiring jagged cliffs and cosy sheltered beaches.

The wildlife varies from seabirds to seals and of course, those famous Shetland ponies.

The culture and history go back thousands of years — the Shetlands were a favourite destination for Viking invasions. It may be a trek to get there but one that is well worth the effort.

If you’re looking to travel to islands off the north coast of Scotland, you won’t go wrong visiting the very popular Orkney Islands.

There are 70 islands, some uninhabited while others have a sparse population. Mainland and Hoy are most popular to visit but so are the Northern Orkney Isles if you’re after some peace and quiet.

No matter where you go, you’ll find dramatic sea cliffs atop churning seawater and ancient archaeological sites like standing stone circles that are older than Stonehenge .

Don’t forget the sea stacks — those gravity-defying geological formations that rise, Jenga-like, out of the sea.

The Inner Hebrides are an incredibly popular collection of islands off the Scottish coast and some of the best Scottish islands for wildlife. Some are impossibly beautiful while others are rugged and sparsely populated.

Whether you’re after magical landscapes, varied wildlife or turbulent history, you won’t run out of things to do.

Explore castles , scale mountains, hike along the coast and discover some of the best bird watching in the world.

Don’t forget about the scotch — some of the world’s best are crafted in the Inner Hebrides.

You could spend days island hopping within the Inner Hebrides and never do the same thing twice!

Looking for beautiful Scottish Islands? Off the northwest coast of Scotland, beyond the Inner Hebrides, you’ll find the Outer Hebrides.

There are 119 islands in total but only five are inhabited, including Lewis, Harris, North and South Uist and Barra.

They are full of surprises. Who would expect sugary white sand beaches with turquoise water? Cliffs, heather-covered moors, not to mention a rich Gaelic culture.

Whether you’re looking for an active, outdoor vacation or a tranquil place to kick back, the Outer Hebrides has something for everyone.

Of all Scotland’s islands, the Isle of Arran is almost like a miniature version of Scotland. Dramatic windswept glens, castles, mountains, cultural heritage with some golf thrown in for good measure.

It’s hard to do everything in a single visit but start with Lochranza Castle — its creepy underground prison is a must-do. Steady your nerves at the Arran Distillery and then seek out other local favourites like traditional oatcakes or Arran’s artisan cheese.

If the great outdoors is your passion, take a stroll along the coast — you may spot a soaring golden eagle or a seal playing near the shoreline.

If you’re really motivated, climb all 2,866 feet of Goatfell , the tallest mountain in Arran.

• Food and drink
• Outdoor adventure
• Water sports

How to get there: There’s a ferry across the Firth of Clyde from Ardrossan. How to get around: By car, bus or bicycle. How long to stay: You could easily spend a few days exploring Arran.

Bute is the smaller of the two Islands of Clyde. You’ll disembark from the ferry in the charming port town of Rothesay. Its Victorian promenade features ice cream shops and old-school pubs as well as stylish boutiques and esoteric bookshops.

Find The Discovery Centre — it has a wealth of information and history about Bute. For architecture buffs, Mount Stuart is a Gothic-style mansion with impressive grounds.

Outside of the town, craggy moors and windy glens will be a hiker’s delight. On the southern part of the island, the ruins of St. Blane’s Chapel and its creepy graveyard are just waiting to be explored. Don’t forget to look up, you’ll be treated to stunning views of Arran.

• History & heritage
• Nature & wildlife

How to get there: From Wemyss Bay, Bute is a short ferry ride across the Firth of Clyde. How to get around: By car, bus or bicycle. How long to stay: Plan to spend a day or two.

Mainland is the largest island in the Shetlands. Lerwick , Mainland’s busy fishing port, has a population of 7,500 and offers many big-city amenities like restaurants, bars and clubs.

Walk along its historic waterfront and then visit the Shetland Museum for a dose of local history, mythology, geology and culture.

On the island’s southern end, you’ll find Sumburgh Head Lighthouse , Visitor Centre and Nature Reserve. Tour the lighthouse or just marvel at the view.

In the north, the volcanic cliffs of Eshaness are dark and mysterious and one of the most dramatic sights on the island.

How to get there: Nightly ferries leave from Aberdeen. There are also flights from Aberdeen, Glasgow, Inverness, Edinburgh or Kirkwall. How to get around: Car, rental car or limited bus service. How long to stay: If you use Mainland as a base to explore other islands, you could easily spend several days there.

At 82 square miles, Yell is the largest of the Northern Isles and has a population of just under 1,000. Its coasts are alive with seabirds, otters and seals.

If you’re lucky, you’ll be greeted by Shetland ponies at the pier. Make time for the Old Haa Museum . It has island artifacts, local whaling history, a tearoom and a gift shop.

Then, seek out the White Wife of Queyon , a ghostly figurehead from the ship Bauhaus, lost in 1942. Also, if you’re brave, Windhouse is a ruined 18th-century manor home that is considered to be the most haunted house in Shetland.

• Nature and wildlife

How to get there: There’s a car ferry from Mainland. How to get around: Car and limited bus service. How long to stay: A day trip to Yell is ideal.

Looking for jagged cliffs, a rocky shoreline and Shetland ponies? Then it’s time to visit Unst, the UK’s northernmost inhabited island.

Only 12 miles long and 5 miles wide, you’ll probably see those world famous Shetland ponies munching grass by the roadside.

Unst has walking paths that snake through its sprawling grasslands, moors, peat bogs and along the shore.

At the Hermaness National Nature Reserve at the northwestern tip of the island, you can see a variety of seabirds, arctic alpine plants and unique blooms.

Visitors shouldn’t miss the Shetland’s only museum, Unst Boat Haven . Learn about the island’s history and the fisherman who have called it home for generations.

How to get there: From Mainland Shetland, you’ll need to take two ferries. How to get around: Car, bicycle (rentals available) and limited bus service. How long to stay: You can do a day trip but spending the night will leave you less rushed.

Tiny Fair Isle is the most remote inhabited island in the UK. It’s only 3 miles long and 1 ½ mile wide and sits between the Orkney and Shetland Islands.

It’s breathtakingly beautiful, like a verdant green jewel peppered by a few simple white cottages. There are 70 inhabitants, many of whom make their living producing traditional hand-knitted sweaters.

Fair Isle is a bird-watching paradise. Its jagged shore and steep cliffs provide excellent habitat for some of the most elusive seabirds on earth.

The Fair Isle Bird Observatory is a must-visit — even non-birdwatchers will be amazed by their fascinating scientific work.

How to get there: There is a 12-passenger ferry from the Shetlands southern tip. There is also an 8-seater plane that leaves from Tingwall Airport but flights are often rescheduled for the weather. How to get around: Bicycle or walking. How long to stay: Given that it’s one of the most difficult islands in Scotland to get to, plan to spend at least a few days.

Mainland is the largest of the Orkney Islands and makes a great base for exploring the other islands.

Kirkwall, its main city, has been a trading centre since the 11th century. Today, it has theatres, restaurants and a choice of accommodations. St. Magnus Cathedral is there as are shops with local crafts, jewellery and clothing.

For a wee dram, visit Highland Park, the northernmost distillery in the UK. In 1999, Mainland was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site because of its archaeological treasures like the ancient Ring of Brodgar , a 5000-year-old stone circle and Skara Brae , the ruins of a stone age settlement.

READ MORE – Things to do on Orkney

• History and Heritage

How to get there: There are flights from Glasgow, Inverness, Aberdeen or Edinburgh. There are multiple ferries, one of which is from Aberdeen. How to get around: Car, bus or taxi. How long to stay: You could easily spend several days exploring Mainland. If using it as a base to explore other islands, plan on several more days.

The Vikings named Hoy “High Island” because it rises up out of the sea. Its dramatic cliffs, glacial valleys and heather-covered moors create a landscape of other-worldly beauty.

The Orkney Islands are known for sea stacks, and Hoy has the UK’s largest — The Old Man of Hoy. At 450 feet, it towers over the churning Atlantic. If you’re a walking enthusiast, take the path along Rackwick Bay to see the Old Man. It’s a five-mile, uphill journey but well worth it.

For something less strenuous, visit the RSPB nature reserve — 10,000 acres of gorgeous country and a bird nesting and migrating site.

How to get there: There is a car ferry from Houton and a passenger ferry from Stromness. How to get around: Car or walking. How long to say: Hoy is perfect for a day trip.

If you’re in Kirkwall and want to explore Scotland’s undiscovered country, take a ferry to one of Orkney’s North Isles. It’s nature in its most unspoiled state. Dramatic coastlines, windswept moors and an amazing array of wildlife, there are also historical and archaeological sites.

Sanday, Eday and Stronsay are the larger islands. Westray, Papa Westray and North Ronaldsay are smaller and even more remote. All have limited, no-frills accommodations available. If you’ve ever wanted to see seaweed eating sheep, North Ronaldsay is the place for you.

How to get there: Take a ferry from Kirkwall to any or all of these islands. You can also travel in between islands. How to get around: Car or bicycle. How long to stay: You could spend a few hours or a few days on each island.

Inner Hebrides

Attention whisky aficionados — Islay is known as Scotland’s whisky coast. It’s the local peat that gives the Islay single malts their famous smoky richness. There are eight distilleries on Islay to visit, so get ready. Still, there is more to Islay than just the whisky.

It’s the southernmost island of the Inner Hebrides and one of the larger Scottish islands at 240 square miles. In Port Ellen , you’ll see the Carraig Fhada Lighthouse.

Portnahaven, a picturesque fishing village on Islay’s southwestern tip, is a great place to catch a glimpse of a seal. Toward the north, visit the Old Parish Church of Kildalton and see the Kildalton Cross — an 8th century carved Celtic cross.

How to get there: There is a car and passenger ferry from Kennacraig into Port Ellen. There are also two flights a day from Glasgow. How to get around: Car, car rental, bus and bicycle (rental available.) How long to stay: You could easily spend several days exploring Islay.

Mull is one of the best Scottish islands to visit because of its gorgeous landscapes, historical sites and diverse wildlife.

Tobermory , its largest town, makes for a picturesque scene with its colourful buildings overlooking the waterfront. It’s also home of the Tobermory Distillery, one of the oldest distilleries in Scotland.

Castle buffs should seek out Duart Castle , perched atop a cliff overlooking the Sound of Mull. It has a 13th-century keep, state room, banquet halls and hair-raising dungeons.

For the mountain climbers in your party, tackle Ben More —the only Munro (mountain over 3,000 feet) outside of the Isle of Skye. Calgary Beach is also lovely with its white-sand beaches and plenty of space for a relaxing walk next to the sea.

How to get there: Ferries cross to the island at three points: Oban, Lochaline and Kilchoan.  How to get around: Car, car rental, taxi and limited bus service. How long to stay: You should at least spend one day, maybe two.

The Isle of Skye is one of the country’s most popular tourist destinations and unquestionably one of the most beautiful Scottish islands.

With breathtaking scenery and rugged landscapes, Skye has easy access to the mainland of the Scottish Highlands thanks to the Skye Bridge that spans Loch Alsh. Portree, Skye’s main village, has a harbour lined with pastel-coloured buildings, perfect for Instagram-able moments.

Don’t forget to check out the Old Man of Storr , a rocky hill that juts into the Scottish sky like a blade.

Drive along the Trotternish loop for some of the most amazing scenery you’ll ever see. If castles are your passion, you’ll need to explore the 800-year-old Dunvegan Castle and gardens. If not, then just go for a hike or a stroll, keeping an eye out for some of the island’s abundant wildlife.

Read – Isle of Skye Travel Guide & Best tours to Skye

How to get there: Car via the Skye Bridge or by ferry from Mallaig. How to get around: Car, rental car, bus or bicycle. How long to stay: You could spend several days exploring Skye but beware—accommodations are limited so book in advance.

While Islay is one of the most popular islands to visit in Scotland, Jura, only minutes away by ferry, is often overlooked. Its bleak geography makes it feel more remote than it is — only 5 miles from the mainland.

The Paps of Jura, three conical-shaped mountains, dominate the landscape. If you’re a hard-core hiker, consider tackling all three peaks with the 10 hours, 10-mile trek.

For something a little more mellow, visit Craighouse on the island’s southwest corner. It’s the only village on Jura and is home to the Isle of Jura Distillery. The Craighouse Village Hall sometimes has live performances and hosts ceilidh, a traditional Scottish storytelling gathering.

How to get there: Take the ferry from Kennicraig on the mainland and then a ferry from Islay.   How to get around: Car, rental car (from Islay), bicycle (rental available) and limited bus service. How long to stay: Jura makes a lovely day trip from Islay.

At first glance, Rum feels relatively barren. Only 30 people call it home and consequently, the goat population outnumbers the humans by 10:1. The landscape is hilly, treacherous and wet, ideal for wildlife and nature walks but more difficult for carving out a living.

Visitors should bring good hiking shoes and be prepared to walk uphill at least some of the time. They’ll be treated to breathtaking scenery and may even see a few red deer. Deer were introduced to the island when textile tycoon John Bullough purchased Rum as his hunting playground in 1888.

Today, visitors can see the outside of Kinloch Castle , a Victorian mansion built in 1900 by his son, George.

How to get there : There’s a ferry from Mallaig that only runs on certain days. How to get around: Walking or bicycling. How long to stay: Rum is perfect for a day trip

If you’re looking for peace and quiet, consider a jaunt to Colonsay. It’s 10 miles long and 2 miles wide and is known for having unspoiled, natural scenery.

Its craggy, heather-covered landscape is not as exposed as Coll and Tiree so it provides an ideal habitat for a wide variety of plant and animal life. If you’re lucky, you might see a wild goat or rabbit.

If it’s Wednesday or Friday, visit the Colonsay House Gardens , an 18th-century house with a 20-acre woodland garden. Their rhododendrons are some of the finest and most varied in Scotland.

Afterwards, drive to Kiloran Bay and you’ll find the island’s most beautiful beaches.

How to get there: There’s a ferry from Oban and a flight from Oban once per week. How to get around: Car, walking or bicycling. How long to stay: Colonsay is perfect for a day trip.

Many visitors to the tiny island of Iona report that it has a distinctly spiritual feeling, different from all other islands off of Scotland. Given that in 563, St. Columba established his monastery and made Iona the cradle of Christianity in Scotland, that holy feeling isn’t that surprising.

Iona is also incredibly beautiful. It’s small — four miles long and one-mile-wide — and has white sand beaches and fertile land, some of which is still tenet-farmed using traditional methods.

The Benedictine Abbey Church and the neighbouring Augustinian Nunnery are must-dos for any travellers.

How to get there: There’s a passenger ferry that leaves from Fionnphort in Mull. How to get around: Walking or taxi service. How long to stay: If you’re in Mull, Iona makes a perfect day trip. From the mainland, you’ll only have a 2-3 hours on Iona so you may want to spend at least one night.

Some have described Tiree as a 12-mile-long, 3-mile-wide raised beach. It’s flat, sandy and a lovely place to get away from it all. It’s the westernmost island of the Inner Hebrides and is known for its mild climate and long, sunny summer days.

Later in the year, Tiree becomes a haven for windsurfers from all over the world. It also has a variety of archaeological sites. On the north coast, you can visit Dun Mor Vaul, an iron-age broch, or roundhouse.

You can also explore the Hynish Heritage Trail . Start at the Skerryvore Lighthouse Museum in Hynish and then wind your way through the workshops and walled gardens of the past.

• Outdoor Adventure

How to get there: There’s a ferry from Oban. There are flights from Glasgow. How to get around: Car, walking or bicycle. How long to stay: For an overnight getaway, you could combine a trip to Coll and see everything on both islands.

Coll is a peaceful island known for wildlife, fabulous beaches and star-gazing.

Begin your visit in Arinagour , a little settlement of simple, white-washed cottages. Your next stop could be one its 20 beaches, many that have towering sand dunes and an assortment of seabirds, rabbits and otters.

Inland, if you visit the moors and meadows, keep your eyes peeled—you may see a corncrake, a rare local bird that darts about in the moor’s tall grasses.

In the summer, Coll is home to some of the longest daylight hours in the UK. Conversely, Coll has been deemed Scotland’s only “Dark Sky Community.” Its isolation and lack of light pollution make it an excellent location for star-gazing.

How to get there: There’s a ferry from Oban and flights from Glasgow. How to get around: Car or bicycle. How long to stay: For an overnight getaway, you could combine a trip to Tiree and see everything on both islands.

You cannot bring your vehicle when visiting Eigg but don’t despair — you won’t miss it. Walking or renting a bike will do just fine and is a perfect way to appreciate this small island’s quiet charm.

Eigg is one of the more wooded islands and is alive with birds like golden eagles, snipes, ringed plovers and gannets. Eigg is also home to An Sgùrr , Britain’s largest pitchstone ridge. Pitchstone is a form of volcanic glass but you’d never know by looking at the imposing geological feature that dominates the island’s southern end.

For those interested in the history of crofting or tenet farming, there is a small museum called Croft 6 on the north part of the island.

How to get there: There’s a passenger ferry at Mallaig. How to get around: Walking, biking or taxi. How long to stay: Eigg is perfect for a day trip.

If you’re looking to explore the smallest of the Small Isles, an archipelago within the Inner Hebrides, look no further than Muck. It’s like a tiny green jewel in a sea of blue and one of the most picturesque Scottish islands.

Your first stop will be the tea room at the pier which is also an information centre and craft shop. Be sure to look for the rugs and hand-knitted clothing made by the locals.

Because Muck is only two miles long and one mile wide, you can easily walk to Gallanach Beach on the island’s north side. If you want a strenuous hike, climb 137 meters to the top of Beinn Airein for a spectacular view of the Small Isles and Scottish mainland. You might even see a puffin or two if you’re lucky.

How to get there: There’s a passenger and car ferry from Mallaig. If you bring a car, you’ll need a permit to travel. How to get around: Walking. How long to stay: You can explore the entire island in only a few hours.

The tiny island of Canna is owned by the National Trust and is known for its seabirds, flowering plants and its Gaelic archive.

Canna is also one of the most tranquil places in Scotland. Spend the day walking up and down its beaches enjoying a quiet breeze.

If it’s bird breeding season, bring those binoculars — Canna’s coastline is home to over 20,000 birds including puffins and eagles. There’s also a fascinating assortment of archaeological sites ranging from the prehistoric to early 19th century.

How to get there: Ferry from Mallaig. How to get around: Walking. How long to stay: Canna is perfect for a day trip.

Outer Hebrides

Lewis is the third largest island in the Outer Hebrides. It shares a landmass with Harris, which makes up the southern third.

Lewis’s main town, Stornoway, has about 7,000 residents, about 60% of which speak Gaelic. It’s a charming place with a surprising variety of restaurants.

If you travel into the countryside, you’ll find fabulous, rocky coasts and sheltered beaches.

Don’t miss the highly atmospheric Callanish — mysterious standing stones even older than Stonehenge. Dun Carloway is an amazingly well-preserved broch from the iron age that overlooks a dramatic crashing sea.

Also, if you’re planning to spend the night in Lewis, you can stay in Gearrannan in a traditional Scottish blackhouse that’s been updated to meet the needs of a modern traveller.

How to get there: There are ferries from Ullapool to Stornoway. There’s also a ferry from Skye into Tarbert in Harris and from there you can drive to Lewis. There are flights from Glasgow, Edinburgh, Inverness and Benbecula.   How to get around: Car, car rental or bus. How long to stay: You could easily spend several days exploring both Lewis and Harris.

While visiting Lewis, don’t forget about Harris — its more rugged southern counterpart. It’s got everything you could want in a Scottish Island experience — moors, lochs, castles and dramatic scenery galore.

On its eastern side, rocks have been found that are millions of years old. On the western side, there are beaches with water so blue and sand so sugary white they would put the Caribbean to shame.

It’s no wonder that Harris frequently tops the list of places with the best beaches in the world. Harris also has picture-perfect villages and of course is the home of Harris Tweed, some of the finest textiles in the world.

Tarbert, the quaint main town, has a population of 550 people and makes an ideal base for exploring.

How to get there: (See how to get to Lewis.) How to get around Car. How long to stay: You could easily spend several days exploring both Lewis and Harris.

Imagine a landscape covered in peat bogs, lochans—small lakes—and machair—flowering grass—alongside stunningly beautiful beaches. That would be North Uist.

Lochmaddy, formerly a herring fishing port, is the main settlement on the island’s west coast. While you’re there, check out Taigh Chearsabhagh, an arts centre and museum that has a gift shop and café.

If you like creepy burial chambers and archaeology, you’re in luck. Barpa Langais, a burial chamber that dates back 5,000 years. For something less ominous, Traigh lar is a dazzling beach with wind-sculpted sand dunes next to crystal clear turquoise water on the island’s west side.

How to get there: There are flights from Glasgow and from Lewis. There is a ferry from Skye as well as one from Berneray to Harris. How to get around: Car, limited taxi service and bicycle. How long to stay: Ideal for a day trip, especially if you’re staying in Harris.

Just a short drive from North Uist, South Uist has similar geography to its northern counterpart, with machair, lochen and boggy, sodden hills. South Uist does have a more foreboding feeling, however, probably because its sparse scenery feels slightly forlorn.

The main settlement is Lochboisedale, where you can catch a wildlife cruise. The eastern side of South Uist is mountainous and great for hiking. The western side has lovely, white-sand beaches.

Loch Druidibeg is a must-do for naturalists and is home to a wide variety of plants and birds. If you’d like to play a round of golf, try Askermish Golf Club. Designed by Old Tom Morris in 1891, it was recently restored to its current grandeur.

How to get there: There are flights from Glasgow and seasonal ferries from Lochboisedale to the mainland at Malliag. Many people arrive via North Uist and drive to South Uist. How to get around: Car and limited bus service. How long to stay: Like North Uist, it’s a perfect place for a day trip.

One of the coolest things about the small island of Barra is that flights can’t arrive at high tide because the runway is underwater.

Only 10 miles long and six miles wide, Barra has a one lane road that loops around the island. Castlebay is the main settlement, and out in the water you’ll immediately be charmed by Kisimul Castle.

You’ll need to take a five-minute boat ride to visit this medieval “Castle in the Sea.” It looks like something out of a fairytale and is the ancient seat of the Clan MacNeil.

When you return ashore, stop in to Dualchas or the Barra Heritage Centre on Castlebay’s western end to learn about local life and history of the island.

How to get there: There are daily flights from Glasgow and ferries from the mainland at Oban. How to get around: Car, rental car, bicycle, bus or taxi. How long to stay: Barra is perfect for a day trip.

With so many beautiful islands (and many other amazing places to visit ) you really are spoilt for choice in Scotland!

Read my other Scotland Travel Guides

• Edinburgh Travel Guide
• Inverness Travel Guide
• Scottish Highlands Travel Guide
• Fort William Travel Guide

If you are wondering about where to stay when you visit the islands my Scotland accommodation guide has you covered! And if spending the night in a Scottish castle is something you dream of click here for our selection of the best Scottish castle hotel stays .

For practical advice to help plan your travels in Scotland you will find everything you need to know in my Scotland Travel Guide or in my general UK Travel Planning Guide – a cheat sheet that will answer all your questions!

Read – Best UK Tours 2022/3 , our 14day Scotland road trip itinerary or our 14 days best of Britain by rail for more itinerary suggestions!

And if you still have questions why not join my UK and London travel planning group on Facebook!

Join my UK and London travel planning group on Facebook for more tips, inspiration and help from other travelers planning future travel to London and the UK.

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Scone Palace Garden Fair returns

A press release from Scone Palace has announced the Scone Palace Garden Fair is back for its third consecutive year, promising an enriching experience for gardening enthusiasts and families alike.

Set against the majestic backdrop of the historic Scone Palace, the fair will take place on Friday 31 May and Saturday 1 June 2024.

This year, the Fair continues its tradition of showcasing the finest Scottish gardening talents. Attendees will have the opportunity to peruse through top plant nurseries, garden centres, and societies, all gathered on the main lawns of Scone Palace. These lawns are famously known as the Crowning Place of the Scottish Kings.

Community outreach

New to this year’s show, the Royal Horticultural Society will join the garden fair with their community outreach programme which promotes gardening in schools. The event will see over 30 pupils from across Scotland invited to a picnic on the palace lawn.

For those interested in pursuing a career in horticulture, representatives from leading horticultural colleges will be available to provide insights and guidance. Gardening enthusiasts can engage with the experts from the BBC gardening programme "Beechgrove", who will be on-site both days to address gardening queries and share valuable tips.

Maker exhbitions

The fair will feature an assortment of marvellous makers exhibiting garden-related crafts, as well as outdoor furniture and equipment specialists.

The Scottish Garden Design Competition will also be a highlight of the weekend with budding amateurs, hobbyists and students producing stunning creations in a bid to claim the prize of best garden design.

New sponsors to this year’s event

The Garden Fair welcomes new sponsors to this year’s event.

Coates and Seely will ensure guests are refreshed with sparkling wines that have achieved international critical acclaim, having won best-in-show trophies and gold and platinum medals in many of the world’s leading competitions.

Gammies Groundcare, one of Scotland’s leading equipment suppliers and the Horticultural Trade Association will also be joining this year’s sponsors and will be onsite during the event to showcase their latest offerings.

Attendees will have access to the expansive gardens and grounds surrounding Scone Palace.

From leisurely woodland walks to exploring the Victorian Pinetum and the recently opened Walled Garden, there's something for everyone to enjoy. Visitors can even challenge themselves in the Murray Star Maze for a memorable experience.

Advanced ticket prices, valid until Thursday 30 May:

• adults: £14.50 each
• children: £10.00 each
• family ticket (two Adults and two Children): £37.00
• concessions and group tickets (12+ people): available

Tickets can be pre-booked, recommended for swift entry to the fair or can be purchased on the day of event with a supplementary charge.

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Best Time of Year to Visit Islands in Scotland

To help you plan the ultimate Scottish island holiday, we've put together some handy guidance and the benefits of visiting off-season as well as top recommendations on visitor experiences off-the-beaten-track. Smaller crowds means shorter queues, cheaper flights and accommodation, the opportunity to see captivating wildlife and plenty of visitor attractions and activities remain open, making it the best time of year to visit the islands.

Canoeing in southern Ayrshire.

© Barry Dawson / Ayrshire & Arran Tourism Group

What are the benefits of visiting the islands off-season?

We've got five fantastic island destinations for you to explore. Whether you're looking to step back in time to Scotland's rich archaeological past, take a walk on the wild side with a forest safari or marvel at the magnificent night sky, there is something to suit all tastes and budgets.

Quieter 

Visitor numbers are far lower during off-season and will almost feel like you have the whole island to yourself. You'll avoid the busy crowds and get the chance to explore further as well as snapping up the perfect photo opportunity without anyone getting in your way!

Accommodation and travel - during off-season, accommodation and travel is considerably less expensive and you're more likely to find some great deals without having to break the bank.

You might think the cooler months are a time for the islands to go into hibernation, but that simply isn't the case. You'll find a wide variety of winter wildlife and the chance to soak up lots of revitalising beach walks - just make sure to wrap up warm though!

The night skies

Longer nights and the lack of light pollution make the islands a fantastic location to explore the stars.

And just maybe... the Northern Lights

You're more likely to see the Aurora Borealis illuminate the night sky between October - March.

Ring of Brodgar

Explore the Magic of Orkney in Winter

Best for: impressive dark skies, handmade arts & crafts, wildlife and rich archaeological heritage.

Old Man of Hoy

THINGS TO DO

1. winter shopping.

It's the most wonderful time of the year to do Christmas shopping! When it comes to finding the perfect gift for family and friends, you'll be spoilt for choice in Orkney. From food & drink, jewellery and artwork to soap and candles, the island is home to some of the finest producers. Buy beautiful artwork from Kirkwall artist  Jane Glue , furniture from  Scapa Crafts , or head to Stromness and treat yourself to a brand new jumper from  Quernstone Knitwear . It's fair to say that you won't be going home empty handed.

2. North Ronaldsay Dark Skies

Many of us wish to experience the night-time spectacle of the Northern Lights and if you're heading to Orkney in winter, you might be lucky enough to turn your dreams into reality. The best place to catch a glimpse of them is in North Ronaldsay which was recently granted dark sky status for its lack of light pollution and clear starry nights. From September to March, make sure to wrap up warm for a spectacular evening of stargazing.

Explore North Ronaldsay

3. See spectacular wildlife

Orkney is a haven for wildlife. In winter, the island becomes a hotspot for migrating and wintering birds. Keep your eyes peeled for a wide variety of species which includes long-tailed ducks, great northern divers, golden plovers, sanderlings and much more.

Explore Scottish wildlife

4. Visit Skara Brae

Step back in time and explore one of Europe's best-preserved prehistoric settlements. Uncovered by a storm in 1850, Skara Brae offers an insight into Orkney life around 5,000 years ago. Get ready for a history lesson like no other as you explore a replica prehistoric house fitted with stone bed enclosures, dressers, seats and more. Make sure to stop by the visitor centre which provides interactive exhibits, fun quizzes for the whole family, and displays of artefacts found from archaeological excavations in the 1970s.

Explore Skara Brae

5. Knap of Howar

Situated on the west coast of Papa Westray, the Knap of Howar is home to the oldest standing stone buildings in north-west Europe. The two houses were believed to have been built around 3800 BC and were occupied by Scotland's earliest farmers. During your visit, you'll notice that the buildings have a similar resemblance to Skara Brae with its hearths, pits, built-in cupboards, and stone benches.

Explore Knap of Howar

6. Midhowe Chambered Cairn

It's no surprise that Rousay is often dubbed as the 'Egypt of the North'. This small, hilly island is considered an archaeological treasure and is home to 15 Neolithic chambered cairns. The largest and best to visit during winter is the Midhowe Chambered Cairn. A modern hangar protects the tomb from the harsh weather elements, and you'll be able to admire the compartments from above by walkways.

Explore Midhowe Chambered Cairn

Discover more of Orkney

Kildonan Beach on The Isle of Arran with Ailsa Craig in the distance

An Autumn Adventure in Arran

Best for: Museums, forest safaris, walking and wildlife.

The King's Cave, Isle of Arran

1. Isle of Arran Heritage Museum

Open from March to October, the Isle of Arran Heritage Museum has been entertaining families for over 40 years with its variety of interesting displays. Children can enjoy many hands-on exhibits while adults can simply indulge in nostalgia. Highlights include old photographs highlighting village life and farming methods, as well as old modes of transport. There is even a large replica of a Viking ship from 1263 before the Battle of Largs, and The Clachaig Man, an old skull excavated at Clachaig cairn in 1900 which is believed to be over 5,000 years old. How cool is that?

Explore Isle of Arran Heritage Museum

2. Wildlife spotting

In autumn, you're bound to see some of Arran's iconic residents otherwise known as the Big Five (red squirrel, red deer, golden eagle, otter and harbour seal). Pack your binoculars and immerse yourself in Scotland's natural beauty.

Uncover the Big Five

3. The Preaching Cave

Originally used as a parish school, The Preaching Cave was a regular meeting place for sermons between the 17th and 19th centuries. Today, it's a great excuse to stretch your legs and explore more of Arran's natural surroundings. The cave lies south of Blackwaterfoot and can be accessed via the  Arran Coastal Way  footpath. The  walk  takes approximately 3-4 hours to complete, and it is recommended that you wear sturdy hiking boots due to its very boggy ground and rocky terrain.

Explore the Preaching Cave

4. Coast Marine Discovery Centre

Visit Scotland's first Marine Protected Area visitor centre.  At the Coast Marine Discovery Centre, you'll spend the day meeting extraordinary marine life in the big tank, learn where your seafood comes from, or the little ones can get comfy at Curly's Cave and Books while reading a few sea stories. Of course, a family trip wouldn't be complete without grabbing a quick selfie. Get ready to smile for the camera at the Shellfie booth before you go!

Visit the Coast Marine Discovery Centre

5. Hit the road on a forest safari

If you go down to the woods today you might be in for a big surprise. Head on an off-road safari with Mogabout. During your road trip adventure, you'll see the stunning Glenashdale Falls, uncover a 5000-year-old chambered cairn, and enjoy plenty of stop-off points for lots of scenic photo opportunities.

Enjoy a forest safari

Discover more of Arran

A couple on the beach at Meal Beach in Burra, Shetland

Send Yourself on an Autumn or Winter Escape in Shetland

Best for: Viking sites, top archaeological sites, wildlife and incredible coastline.

An aerial view of the coastline on West Mainland

© VisitScotland / Paul Tomkins

1. Viking sites

Shetland was once a Viking stronghold and it's clear that its history has left a huge mark on the island. From its place names and geographical features, parts of boats and even its different species of birds, the island boasts strong Scandinavian roots. If you wish to follow in the Vikings footsteps, be sure to make a trip to Unst, Britain's northernmost inhabited island.

2. See the Northern Lights

Shetland is closer to the North Pole than any other part of Britain, making it the best place to see the Northern Lights on a clear night from October - March. Wrap up warm and watch the night sky come to life with hues of green, hints of pink and strong displays of red, violet, and white. Did you know that the island of Unst even has its own space station?

Visit Shetland's Space Station

3. Orcas

If you wish to see the best of Shetland's marine life, then you're in luck! Orca watching is a particular highlight with visitors. Although Orca season is usually between May and August, you might still be in with a chance of seeing these beautiful creatures in action. Shetland locals have set up a handy  Orca Sightings Facebook page  sharing lots of photos and the best times and places to see them. Fancy heading out on the water? A range of boat tour operators including  Shetland Sea Adventures  offer regular  whale spotting tours .

4. Visit Prehistoric sites

History oozes from the Shetland isles and the quieter crowds give you the chance to explore more of its archaeological sites in depth which is one of the many benefits of visiting the islands off-season. Take a boat trip to the enchanting island of Mousa. You'll find a magnificent  Iron Age broch  and wonderful wildlife, with tours operating during the day right through to early evening. If that's not enough, get your history fix by visiting  Jarlshof  and experience the human settlement of the Neolithic people. You'll find everything from oval-shaped Bronze Age houses, an Iron Age broch, wheelhouses, Norse long houses and much more.

Discover more of Shetland

Ettrick Bay located on the west coast of the Isle of Bute in the Firth of Clyde

Book an Autumn or Winter Break in Bute

Best for: Museums, gin, cycling and walking adventures.

City Sightseeing bus in Rothesay

© VisitScotland / Kenny Lam

1. Enjoy a visit to Bute Museum

With its wealth of history, we think this island deserves its own museum. Bute Museum is free to visit and is dedicated to the archaeology, history and natural history of the island. You'll find permanent displays of rock samples illustrating Bute's complicated geology, military items from Rothesay Castle's turbulent past and even a well-preserved skull of a young Bronze Age woman. To keep the kids entertained, there are exciting hands-on exhibits in the Natural History room where they'll be able to handle various natural objects.

Visit Bute Museum

2. Home to the most impressive neo-Gothic mansion

Beautifully designed inside and out, this sandstone palace was the ancestral home of the Marquess of Bute and was completed in 1719 after it was severely damaged by fire. Today, Mount Bute is adorned with swathes of marble from its chapel and features a flamboyant display of astrology and art within its furnishings. Did you know that Mount Stuart was the first house in Scotland to be wired for electricity, had a lift and a heated swimming pool? Good news, all three are still working!

Explore Mount Stuart

3. Shop local

When you're visiting Bute, you'll want to make sure that you come back with a selection of goodies. Support local retailers and producers and pick up a souvenir from hand-made candles, artwork, arts & crafts and home interior. Looking for a new gin for your drinking repertoire? Be sure to stop by Isle of Bute Gin. You'll find 5 flavours to choose from and you can arrange your own private bespoke experience, if you book online you'll even be given a 5% discount voucher to spend in the distillery shop!

Enjoy Isle of Bute gin

4. Cycling

It might be cold outside but that shouldn't stop you from exploring the island on two wheels! Pedal until your heart's content while you cycle the 23-mile loop around the whole island offering spectacular views to the Kyles of Bute, Arran and beyond. If you're looking for more things to see and do, make sure to check out the beautiful beaches, including  Ettrick Bay  and  Scalpsie Bay . If you forgot to bring your bike, fret not!  Bike Bute  is the first island-based community e-bike scheme where you can hire a bike for up to 8 hours per day.

5. Walking

The island is home to some of the best walks, and its stunning coastline is no exception. Start the day off right with a brisk morning walk along the  Kilchattan Bay loop , spend the afternoon taking a leisurely stroll along the peaceful  Glen More (Ettrick Bay) - Rhubodach  or perhaps you might want to extend your walking adventure to a few days with the  West Island Way . The route is approximately 25 miles long (40 km) and can easily be done in one to five days, or broken up into shorter walks if you don't want to complete the entire route.

Discover more of Bute

A Motorhome Parked By A Beach Near Port Ellen On The Isle Of Islay

Immerse Yourself in Islay

Best for: cosy winter retreats, wild swimming, castle ruins and whisky distilleries.

Islay E-Wheels bikes, Isle of Islay

1. Visit Finlaggan

Known as the Lordship of the Isles, this island settlement lies in the middle of Loch Finlaggan and is a great place to brush up on your Scottish history. There are two islands, Eilean Mòr (the Large Island) which can be easily accessed by a walkway or boat and Eilean na Comhairle (the Council Island) which contains fragmentary remains of buildings. The inauguration of the MacDonald Lords of the Isles took place in Finlaggan. The Lords of the Isles descended from Somerled, the 'King of the Isles', and the lords and the chiefs of Clan Donald chose Finlaggan as their home and the centre of their Lordship, and today Islay is often referred to as the Cradle of Clan Donald.

Visit Finlaggan

2. Head to Dunyvaig Castle

Located on the south side of the island, Dunyvaig Castle was once the coastal defence for the chiefs of Clan Donald, who held the title of Lord of the Isles. Visit the remaining castle ruins which date from the 13th to 16th century and grab the perfect photo opportunity with the iconic  Lagavulin  signage in the background.

Explore Dunyvaig Castle

3. Go wild swimming

Are you brave enough to tackle the cold-water temperatures? If so, enjoy the thrill of the chill with wild swimming.  Laggan Bay ,  Loch Gruinart  and  Loch Indaal  are safe swimming spots on the island and benefits include reducing stress levels, improving circulation and metabolism, and helps boost our happiness levels. No matter what time of the year, it's important to stay safe in the water. Be sure to bring a friend along and wear a fluorescent swim cap to help you be seen by other people on the water, and by people on the shore. After your invigorating swim, wrap up warm with plenty of layers, a woolly hat and drink hot sugary beverages.

Learn more about wild swimming

4. Carraig Fhada Lighthouse

Built in 1832, travellers arriving in Islay were greeted by the three-story high lighthouse - the only one in Scotland to feature a square shape. Gaze out over Port Ellen and watch ferries glide across the water. When the tide is out, venture towards the lighthouse for a closer look and for some magical pics, especially during golden hour.

Visit Carraig Fhada Lighthouse

5. Enjoy Scotland's National Drink

With nine working distilleries on Islay, the island is the ultimate pilgrimage for whisky fans. We're here to raise a glass to Bunnahabhain. Best known for its peated whisky, the team behind its single malt success have helped the distillery win several accolades throughout the years. Book a distillery tour and sample a variety of different whiskies. Make sure to stock up and buy some of your favourites and experience the taste of Islay from the comfort of your own home.

Visit Bunnahabhain

6. Stay at a cosy winter retreat

Get a good night's rest at Bowmore Cottages. Choose from five cottages, all varying in size from one to four bedrooms. There's a comfy living room, fully-equipped kitchen and even a superior en-suite bathroom. Come winter, the fireplace comes in handy for those cold nights.

Book a stay at Bowmore Cottages

Discover more of Islay

General Guidance and FAQS When Visiting The Islands

The Jacobite Steam Train

© VisitScotland / Ian Rutherford

HOW DO I GET TO THE ISLANDS DURING AUTUMN AND WINTER?

Fly to Orkney with  Loganair . Flights are direct to Kirkwall Airport from Glasgow, Edinburgh and Aberdeen, with flights lasting up to one hour and includes connections from Belfast City, Bristol, Cardiff, Dublin, Exeter, Isle of Man, Manchester, Newcastle, Newquay, Norwich, Southampton and Teeside.

There are four sailing routes to Orkney where you'll be able to take your car onboard:

• John O' Groats Ferry  - from John O' Groats to Burwick, operating from May until late September (40 minutes).
• Pentland Ferries  - from Gill's Bay to St Margaret's Hope (1 hour).
• NorthLink Ferries  - from Scrabster to Stromness (90 minutes) or Aberdeen to Kirkwall (6 hours).

If you plan to do a bit of island hopping,  Orkney Ferries  operate 9 Inter-Island ferries between Orkney's mainland and 13 other beautiful island destinations.

ScotRail  operate trains to Aberdeen for the ferry to Kirkwall.

There are also services which run from Edinburgh and Glasgow to help you catch a connecting train from Aberdeen and Thurso:

• Edinburgh to Aberdeen (2 hours 35 minutes)
• Edinburgh to Thurso (8 hours 20 minutes)
• Glasgow to Aberdeen (2 hours 30 minutes)
• Glasgow to Thurso (7 hours 40 minutes)

Citylink  run bus services to Aberdeen, Gills Bay and Scrabster so you can catch your ferry to the islands. If you're flying here, jump on the Stagecoach JET (service 4) which will take you from Kirkwall Airport to Kirkwall in just 15 minutes!

Two car ferry services, operated by  Caledonian MacBrayne  (CalMac), serve the island:

• The Ardrossan to Brodick service runs from early spring to late October. The journey time is approximately 1 hour, with vehicle reservations recommended.
• Claonaig in Kintyre to Lochranza which is situated at the north end of Arran. The journey takes around 30 minutes with no advance booking required. In winter, the ferry from Kintyre leaves from  Tarbert (Loch Fyne) , not Claonaig.

ScotRail  operate regular services from Glasgow Central Station to Brodick and takes around 45 minutes. Step off the train at Ardrossan Harbour and you're just a few minutes' walk to the ferry terminal where you can enjoy a leisurely sail across the Firth of Forth to Brodick on Arran. The journey time is approximately 1 hour and it's a great time to soak in the views.

Stagecoach  operates services from Glasgow to Ardrossan and operates across the Isle of Arran, connecting Lochranza in the north and Brodick in the south of the island.

The drive from Glasgow to Ardrossan Harbour is approximately 1 hour where you will reach the ferry terminal.

Book a direct flight to Sumburgh Airport with  Loganair  from Aberdeen, Edinburgh, Glasgow and Inverness, Kirkwall and Manchester. There are also plenty of connections from Birmingham, Belfast City, Bristol, Exeter, Newcastle, Norwich and Teeside.

Take the overnight  ferry  from Aberdeen or Kirkwall with  NorthLink Ferries . You'll be able to take cars, motorhomes and bikes onboard. There are also pet-friendly cabins available to book if you wish to bring your four-legged friends along.

ScotRail  operate trains to Aberdeen for the ferry to Lerwick. There are services which run from Edinburgh and Glasgow to help you catch a connecting train from Aberdeen:

From Edinburgh, drive to Aberdeen and catch the overnight ferry to Lerwick.

Lerwick ferry

There are two main ferry routes to the island serviced by  Caledonian MacBrayne , (CalMac):

• Glasgow to Bute via Colintraive - take the scenic route for your trip to Bute. It might take a wee bit longer, but you'll drive by Loch Lomond, through the Arrochar Alps and to the top of Loch Fyne. You'll arrive at Colintraive ferry terminal for the 5-minute crossing to Rhubodach on Bute before hitting the road again with just a 7-mile drive to Rothesay.
• Wemyss Bay to Rothesay - take the quick route to Bute. Hop onboard the train to Wemyss Bay from Glasgow Central Station and catch the ferry from Wemyss Bay Terminal on the mainland which arrives at Rothesay on Bute.

ScotRail  run regular trains from Glasgow Central Station to Rothesay where you will stop off at Wemyss Bay to catch the ferry at Wemyss Bay Terminal. The journey takes approximately 1 hour.

Citylink  operate bus services to Wemyss Bay from Glasgow which takes around 1 hour 30 minutes, which includes a change at Greenock.

The quickest route from Wemyss Bay is from Glasgow which takes around an hour to get there.

Loganair  operate direct flights to Islay from Glasgow all-year round, and  Hebridean Air Services  operate flights to the island from Colonsay and Oban.

Book a ferry to Islay from Kennacraig with  CalMac . Landing at Port Ellen (2 hours 20 minutes) or Port Askaig (1 hour 55 minutes).

BY BUS AND TRAIN

Citylink operate daily bus services from Glasgow Buchanan Street Bus Station which makes the connection with the ferry at Kennacraig.  Check bus timetables and services for more information .

From Glasgow, head north on the A82 until you reach Tarbert. The road then follows the path of Loch Fyne. Kennacraig is 65 miles from Tarbert and is located near the top of the Kintyre peninsula. From there, you can catch the ferry to Port Askaig.

Shetland ponies roaming the hills on Foula

ARE THE ISLANDS EASY TO GET AROUND BY PUBLIC TRANSPORT DURING AUTUMN AND WINTER?

Despite it being autumn and winter, you'll be surprised by how many public transport services run throughout the year. With bus, inter-flight and ferry services available, off-season makes it the best time of year to visit and make use of the services when it's not too busy. Please note, some services may be disrupted due to bad weather which might affect travel times.

Loganair  operates the Orkney Inter-Island service, with flights from Kirkwall to the North Isles and direct flights to other exciting island destinations all-year round, including Islay, Stornoway and Sumburgh. From early spring to late October, you can also travel to North Ronaldsay, Sanday, Stronsay, Westray and Papa Westray, the world's shortest flight that lasts 90 seconds.

If you prefer to get around the island from A to B by bus,  Stagecoach  operate two bus services to help you gain the most out of your island experience. The T11 service runs daily from early April until late October and offers a hop-on, hop-off service for just £16 per person. The bus departs each morning at 10 AM where you can take in the incredible sights of Skara Brae, the Ring of Brodgar and the Standing Stones of Stenness before returning to Kirkwall.

Arran is served by great local bus routes from  Stagecoach  to help you get your bearings around the island. There are three main routes to choose from:

• The 324 bus service via Lochranza to Blackwaterfoot (North End).
• The 323 bus service via Whiting Bay to Blackwaterfoot (South End).
• The 322 bus service which heads across the String to Blackwaterfoot.

All three services operate on a return basis and most coincide with ferry times to Brodick. Car hire, taxis and private hire cars are also available on the island.

Exploring Shetland by public transport is all part of the fun while on holiday.  Shetland Islands Council  operate frequent inter-island ferry services for foot passengers and for those bringing their own vehicle onboard. Fancy taking to the air? Inter-island flights are also available and operated by  Airtask Group  to allow you to explore more of Shetland's remote islands. Flights depart from Tingwall airport (just 6 miles outside Lerwick) and fly direct to Fair Isle, Foula and Papa Stour.

Or, if you prefer both feet on the ground take a scenic bus route around the island with five bus routes available:

• Lerwick, Bressay, Scalloway and Burra
• South Mainland
• West Mainland
• North Mainland
• North Isles

An open-top sightseeing bus tour is the easiest way to see all the island's sites. Book a tour with  City Sightseeing Bute  and sit back and relax while you take in the stunning scenery and let your bus tour guide lead the way with his top-class commentary.

There are two main  bus routes  on Islay. The 450 bus runs from Bowmore in the centre of the island to Portnahaven in the south west and the 451 runs between Port Askaig in the north-east down to Port Ellen and Ardberg in the south. Both bus services run from Monday to Saturday.

DO ATTRACTIONS ON THE ISLANDS HAVE SEASONAL OPENING HOURS?

Before you book your trip, we recommend checking what is open, which includes attractions, distilleries, bars, shops and restaurants, as some places might close early over the winter period. Most distilleries are closed on Sundays and Mondays but make sure to check before booking to avoid disappointment.

Up Helly Aa, Shetland's Viking Fire Festival

© VisitScotland / Luigi Di Pasquale

ARE THERE ANY FESTIVALS TAKING PLACE DURING AUTUMN AND WINTER?

Yes, there are plenty of festivals taking place throughout the islands. Here is just a selection of exciting events taking place around the islands for you to mark on your calendar:

• Orkney International Science Festival  (September)
• Viking Festival  (September)
• Orkney Blues Festival  (September)
• Orkney Storytelling Festival  (October)
• The MacLellan Arts Festival  (Mid-August to September)
• Wee Mac Arran Children's Book Festival  (August)
• Lerwick Up Helly Aa  (January)
• Shetland Songwriting Festival  (September)
• Wordplay  (September)
• Shetland Accordion and Fiddle Festival  (October)
• Taste of Shetland  (October)
• Isle of Bute Jazz Festival  (October)
•   Lagavulin Islay Jazz Festival  (September)

Find more fantastic festivals on Scotland's islands .

Find experiences

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