The Small Isles tourist information

The Small Isles is the collective name for the beautiful islands of Rum, Eigg, Muck and Canna, lying just south of the larger Isle of Skye and reached by ferry from Mallaig. Each have their own distinctive character and all are worth a visit.

Rum (or Rhum) is the largest of the islands, and now a National Nature Reserve managed by Scottish Natural Heritage in order to protect its wildlife, which include red deer and eagles. The island is a dramatic and rocky place with the mountains of the Cuillin of Rum dominating the landscape. Kinloch Castle is an impressive 19th century turreted castle built by the Bullough family, former owners of the island.

Eigg is another stunning rocky island, with the sheer cliff face of the mountain An Sgurr looming above. There are wonderful sandy beaches in the north. The island also has a fantastic diversity of wildlife and is often temporarily home to rare bird species that have found their way to Eigg. The Island is now owned by a trust which includes the Scottish Wildlife Trust.

Canna is found to the far west, and is run as a working farm by the National Trust for Scotland. This is beautiful and peaceful place, where the main attraction is tranquillity. A protected bird sanctuary, it is inhabited by many species including kittiwakes, oystercatchers and puffin.

Muck is the smallest island, but with a thriving community. This remote and windswept island has stunning scenery from its rugged coastline to sandy beaches and the mountain of Beinn Airein. Run as a farm with ponies, cows and pigs, produce is for sale at the craft shop and tea room in the village of Port Mor.