Scottish Islands Inspiration

View of Tobermory Harbour, one of the prettiest town's in the Scottish Islands
White Strand of the Monks Beach, Iona
An Sgurr, Isle of Eigg

let’s go island hopping in scotland!

I believe that everyone should experience the charm, the calm and the beauty of the Scottish Islands at least once in their lifetime.


The Scottish Islands are my happy place; my escape, my adventure, my opportunity to slow down.

I’ve been hopping the islands for over 10 years and have visited 66 so far. I love exploring new islands and revisiting my favourites; it’s something I’ll be doing for the rest of my life.

Most people are surprised to discover that there are around 780 islands in Scotland; some are tidal, some are connected by causeways or bridges, and others that are so small you’d need your own kayak or boat to grace their shores.

Less than 100 of the islands are inhabited and these are the isles that most people will visit.

If you’re short on time, there are islands which are close to the mainland or that can be visited on a day trip, but of course, my advice will be to linger for longer if you can.

Keep reading for all my top tips, blogs posts and island inspiration.


Paps of Jura from Port Askaig, Islay (Scottish Islands)

WHAT’S SO SPECIAL ABOUT THE SCOTTISH ISLANDS?

> Every single island is unique; they all share similar qualities but each one has it own quirks and charm, whether it’s the landscapes, the activities, the food or the history.

> The scenery will soothe your soul; of course, when you’re on an island, you’re never far from the sea but you’ll also find mountains, glens, forests, waterfalls and wilderness.

> The sense of community; expect close-knit community vibes, island hospitality and warm welcomes. As a city girl, this never fails to warm the heart.

> The local food; thanks to the amazing farmers, fisherman and producers on the islands, you won’t have any trouble finding high quality local ingredients and cuisine. The home-baking is something else too!


TOP TIPS FOR VISITING THE SCOTTISH ISLANDS

> Plan & book in advance; accommodation on the islands can be limited and high in demand, so it’s always wise to get ahead of the game for the best options and prices.

> Consider travelling outwith peak season; avoiding the summer months & School Holidays can save you money and help dodge the crowds. The islands are beautiful all-year round, although some businesses will close for the season in autumn (check online before booking your trip).

> Focus on 1 island or island group; unless you have lots of time, it’s best not to skim the surface and rush around. Choose the island/s which fit into your itinerary or which appeal to you the most, then look at other islands you can hop to nearby. For example:

  • Isle of Arran is easy to reach by public transport and the local buses cover most of the island. It’s a small island with amazing food and you can take a boat trip to Holy Isle from Lamlash.
  • Isle of Mull is only 50-minutes by ferry from Oban. Not only is Mull an incredible island, you can also hop across to the Isle of Iona, Staffa & the Treshnish Isles, and the Isle of Ulva.
  • Isle of Islay is Scotland’s whisky island in the Southern Hebrides. From Islay, you can take a day trip to Jura and/or Colonsay. Islay Sea Tours have just launched a day trip to Staffa & Iona.
  • Isle of Coll has the most beautiful beaches and amazing hospitality at Coll Hotel. Combine your trip with a visit to neighbouring Tiree which is famed for its beaches and watersports.
A dram at Ardbeg Distillery
Ardbeg Distillery, Islay
Balevullin Beach, Tiree
Balevullin Beach, Tiree

> Spend money locally; tourism is so important and beneficial to the island communities. Stay with local hosts, book tours & activities, and buy food from local shops & restaurants.

> If you hiring a car, learn the driving etiquette; there are many rural, winding roads on the islands. Please familiarise yourself with the use of Passing Places for overtaking and on single track roads. Check out VisitScotland Driving in Scotland FAQs.

> Check opening days/times; before you embark on a drive, walk, local bus to visit an attraction or eatery on your island wish-list, check it’s definitely open. Businesses don’t always update their info on Google, so I usually check their social media pages or give them a call.

> Pack accordingly and plan for varied weather; Scotland has a reputation for ‘four seasons in one day’ and this can apply even more so on the islands. At the least, bring comfortable, sensible shoes, layers of clothing, and a waterproof jacket; failure to pack the latter will almost certainly guarantee some rain, ha ha!


ferries to the scottish islands

CalMac Ferries operate services to the Western Isles including the Inner Hebrides, Outer Hebrides and the Firth of Clyde.

> Explore the interactive route map here.

Northlink Ferries operate services to and between the Northern Isles of Orkney & Shetland.

> View the route map here.

TOP TIPS FOR TRAVELLING BY FERRY

> Book online in advance; whether you’re just a foot passenger or you’re travelling with a car. Popular routes such as Uig (Skye) – Tarbert (Harris) or the ferries to Shetland are often fully booked in peak season.

> Check the check-in time; your booking confirmation will tell you when to arrive for your departure (the time is different for vehicles & foot passengers). Always allow extra time for the journey to the ferry port and to collect your tickets from the office.

> Have your confirmation number ready; you’ll need this to collect your tickets from the port office, if you didn’t print them at home.

> Indulge in the CalMac onboard food; ordering a Full Scottish breakfast or CalMac ‘n’ cheese is a rite of passage when travelling by ferry. There’s speciality coffee too and a Malt of the Month whisky in the bar.

> Get out on deck; come rain, shine or high winds, a good blast of fresh, sea air up on deck will awaken the senses. I love seeing Scotland’s coastline and the islands from the water.

Ferries to the Scottish Islands: CalMac ferry, Isle of Iona

Beautiful Arinagour on the Isle of Coll

USEFUL LINKS FOR TRIPS TO THE SCOTTISH ISLANDS


SCOTTISH ISLANDS BLOG POSTS

Isle of Eigg

Need help planning your island adventure?