Scottish Islands - General Discussion Groups

[David76]

One of the perks of my job is that I get to go to the islands.

What Scottish islands have you been to?

Which ones did you like and why? Are there any you never wish to set foot on again? If so, why?

 

[Sad Professor]

The beach at Ettrick Bay and Port Bannatyne are very good places to kick around on Bute when the weather is nice.

Rothesay has enough pubs, the castle and the all-important boat out to make it a bearable visit. The West Island Way is worth doing as well.

I've only been to Bute, Arran, Cumbrae and Skye.

 

[David76]

I'm a regular visitor to Skye and never tire of the scenery and dramatic skies. Elgol has already been mentioned and to me, it's the best corner on the island.

However, my favourite island I've visited so far and will take some beating is Staffa. Lucky enough to have visited twice when the weather has been great and the second time the sea conditions allowed the skipper to sail into Fingal's Cave.

Rothesay has enough pubs, the castle and the all-important boat out to make it a bearable visit. The West Island Way is worth doing as well.

Just Googled The West Island Way. Haven't even heard of it before. Looks decent to be fair. Might give that a bash in stages (unless it's a non-work visit) next time I'm over on Bute and avoid the dump that is Rothesay.

 

[David76]

Just back at work after a week on Islay. Know where I'd rather be…

 

[Tom]

Just back at work after a week on Islay. Know where I'd rather be…

Nice pic. Where did you stay?

 

[David76]

Nice pic. Where did you stay?

Just in Port Charlotte in an Air BnB. Spent a week there after being up in Arduaine for a few days, went over to Mull and Staffa from there. Wish we'd booked to stay over in Iona rather than trek back across Mull for the last ferry.

 

[Dylan]

Has anyone been to the Isle Of Rum? I'm there from Wednesday to Monday. Is there anywhere to eat like a restaurant or bar? I know there's a post office which has food but would be good to be prepared before I go. Planning to wild camp half of the trip.

 

[David76]

Has anyone been to the Isle Of Rum? I'm there from Wednesday to Monday. Is there anywhere to eat like a restaurant or bar? I know there's a post office which has food but would be good to be prepared before I go. Planning to wild camp half of the trip.

A few years ago, there's not a lot on the island at all. Kim's Kitchen at the village hall used to do food, unsure if that's still the case.

I don't want to put you off but, 5/6 days on Rum could potentially be a bit long. Probably see the whole island in a couple of days.

 

[Wanted]

I'm off to Iona next Friday for 2 nights, buzzing

 

[Legion]

I'm off to Iona next Friday for 2 nights, buzzing

I'm a big fan of Iona, beautiful wee island. The fact it's only 3 miles long and 1.5 miles wide means it's pretty easy to explore, although it's got a really rugged coastline in places, particularly on the west side.

Despite not being religious I find the Abbey pretty fascinating, some great stories and history surrounding St Columba, the Vikings and the MacDonald Lords of the Isles.

The highest point of the island is Dun I at 101m. Easy enough climb up although can be boggy in places. If you've got binoculars take them as on a clear day you'll get views to Tiree, Mull, Staffa, Jura, Islay and the Treshnish Isles to name a few, possibly even as far as Rum.

The best thing about Iona is the beaches, especially to the north. The top picture below is the White Strand of the Monk in the north east. The other one is of Traigh an t-Suidhe in the north west, possibly my favourite beach in Scotland. Usually very quiet and great views to NW Mull, Staffa and the Treshnish Isles.

Lastly if you've got the time (and the sealegs) then take a trip out to Staffa with Staffa Trips. Well worth the £30. About 50 min each way and then about an hour ashore. The columnar basalt rock formations and Fingal's Cave are magnificent. No puffins at this time of year but the trip itself is good for seabirds and often marine mammals. I've posted a picture of the island earlier on in the thread.

Enjoy yourself.