Scotland’s Stunning Islands: A Guide to Skye, Orkney, and More

Doubtlessly, Scotland is one of the most beautiful countries in the world. Many entities, like historical sites and dramatic landscapes, play a role in making the country attract global visitors. Islands are a significant part of the Scottish vista. Most of these Islands are eyewitnesses to Scottish ups and downs. This article aims to tell you about Scottish islands with a blend of history and tourism perspective. Let’s start with some information about the Islands in Scotland.

Islands in Scotland

According to statistics, 97% of Scotland’s area is covered by land, while approximately 3% is covered by water. Surprisingly, this little area covered by water has 790 islands. About 94 of them are inhabited, while others are not. Similarly, a few of the isles are abandoned by the people, but some still attract several visitors. Have a look at the best Islands to visit in Scotland.

Best Islands to Visit in Scotland

Before discussing these beautiful islands that must be seen in Scotland, let us tell you one thing that the Isles have nail-biting beauty as well as deep history. Here, we made a list of a few depending on their unique structure, wildlife living there, and much more. Some names and descriptions of these islands are given below.

Orkney Islands

One of Scotland’s most beautiful sites, Orkney Island, usually consists of 70 islands. 20 of them are inhabited, while the rest are free of humans. You might be surprised that this site is almost 8500 years old. A month might not be sufficient to see this island.
This island has a wide range of attractions. At these sites, one can enjoy activities like hiking, animal viewing, and touring historic buildings. The prominent sites are Skara Brae, Saint Magnus Cathedral, the Ring of Brodgar, and the Italian Chapel.

Isle of Skye

Today, Skye is a must-visit for its stunning scenery. Cuillin mountains, the otherworldly Quiraing, and the dramatic Old Man of Storr are some popular places to be visited there. It’s a paradise for hikers, photographers, and anyone seeking wild beauty.
Skye’s history is rooted in its landscape. It has much to explore, from the dinosaur footprints of the Jurassic period to the clan battles of the Middle Ages. The island played a role in the Jacobite uprisings, with Flora MacDonald famously aiding Bonnie Prince Charlie’s escape. The clan used to have their own tartan kilts, which are quite common now.

Lewis and Harris

The island has been home to humans for thousands of years. It has ancient standing stones like Callanish predating Stonehenge. Harris is famous for having stiff and rocky mountains and clear beaches. On the other hand, Lewis has flat ground with crofting communities. The islands are a must-visit for their unique blend of Gaelic and Norse heritage. They have wild and windswept landscapes offering a sense of remoteness.

Shetland Islands

Shetland has a rich history as well as ancient sites, many animals, including seals and puffins, and breathtaking coastline beauty. For those who are looking for an attraction to enjoy the Northern Lights, stunning scenery, and a distinctive cultural experience, this place is a perfect choice.
The sea there has always played a significant role in Shetland’s history. The islands were ruled by Norway and Vikings, who first arrived here in the ninth century. The regional speech and customs still reflect this Norse ancestry.

Isle of Mull

There are amazing things to do on this big island in the Inner Hebrides. In short, one has much to enjoy whether he is staying for two weeks or just going on a day trip. Tourists have miles of breathtaking coastline with incredible wildlife to explore and visit. The attractive town of Tobermory, with its array of unique markets and colorful residences, offers hours of relaxation.
The island is full of facilities ensuring a good lifestyle, with a high school in Tobermory and other elementary schools spread out. Similarly, there is a property type to fit any budget, ranging from luxurious estate homes to one-bedroom seaside apartments. In other words, Mull Island is a considerable place to travel as well as to live.

Isle of Arran

Arran, sometimes referred to as “Scotland in Miniature,” comprises a mountainous range that captures the core of the Lowlands and Highlands. Its history dates back to the Neolithic era. Some attractions like stone rings and standing stones over the island prove it.
With its lovely gardens, Brodick Castle is a well-liked destination. The easily accessible beauty of Arran, which offers a sample of all Scotland has to offer on one little island, makes it a must-see. It’s ideal for cycling, hiking, and seeing historical places.

Biggest Island in Scotland

Scottish islands vary in size, and the biggest one is Lewis and Harris, which covers 841 square miles and 1% of Great Britain. This archipelago has been inhabited for thousands of years, with ancient standing stones like Callanish predating Stonehenge. Norse influence was strong here, with Lewis forming part of the Kingdom of the Isles.
Harris is known for its rocky mountains and quite ancient beaches, while Lewis is flatter, with crofting (farm lander) communities. The islands are worth visiting because of their unique blend of Gaelic and Norse heritage. Their wild and exposed landscapes and sense of remoteness make them unique. No facilities are available on many sub-parts of this isle, so Scotls call it a place to escape the modern world and connect with nature.

Smallest Island in Scotland

According to studies, Easdale is the smallest island in Scotland. Situated 15 miles south of Oban, it has an area of less than 10 hectares. Being the smallest, it is known to be home to just 60 individuals. Around 500 people resided there in the 1960s, but unsuitable circumstances caused them all to leave, and only 4 people remained.
The island is known for its natural scenery, including sea views, green grass, and cream cottages. It is a popular destination for tourists drawn to the island’s natural wildlife, quarries, and the World Stone Skimming Championships.

Inhabited Islands in Scotland

We have stated earlier that approximately 94 of 790 Scottish islands are settled while the rest of them are uninhabited. We made a list of some inhabited islands here:

Abandoned Islands in Scotland

When it comes to the uninhabited Islands, they were not like this from day one, but people used to live there. Different conditions appeared over time, and people living there abandoned them. Here is the list of those islands:

Many factors caused residents to abandon these Islands, including isolation, food shortages, disease, and poverty. Similarly, Highland clearance was a brutal event that caused people to leave their islands and emigrate to neighboring countries.

Conclusion

Visiting Scotland is a fantastic experience because of its excellent landscapes. Everything from historical sites like castles to lochs and Scottish islands attracts millions of people every year. Some of them are inhabited, while a majority do not have human symptoms but can be visited. On the other hand, humans settled on some but abandoned them for many reasons.