Eigg

Ask an Islander

Owain from the Isle of Eigg helped us explore the traditional capital of the Small Isles, kisking off by telling us about a great walk on the island.

“There are many fine walks on Eigg that take in the dramatic landscape and coastline. The most popular is the An Sgurr path, which leads you through moorland plateaus, past hidden lochs and up onto the iconic pitchstone summit. Whilst not the highest peak in this part of the world, the summit commands breathtaking 360-degree views of the mainland and surrounding islands. On a clear day the Outer Hebrides, Coll, Tiree, Skye, Muck, Rum, The Treshnish Isles and more are all clearly visible.”

A high priority for most visitors is where to get some delicious food and local produce. Owain tells us more. “A trip to Eigg wouldn’t be complete without a visit to Galmisdale Bay Cafe & Bar. It’s the only licensed cafe/bar on Eigg, offering a great selection. It’s a tough choice but I’m a sucker for a bowl of fresh mussels in a white wine and garlic sauce, washed down with a pint of IPA from Isle of Eigg Brewery,” he says.

We asked Owain about his favourite time of the year in Eigg. “It has to be spring. As the island starts emerging from winter, the vibrant colours of spring return and the abundance of wildlife can be seen and heard all over the island. A highlight of late spring is the stunning display of bluebells and wild garlic. I’ve lived on the island for five years and continually find new, beautiful and fascinating places to explore. Volunteers work hard maintaining old paths and creating new ones too that are fantastic to explore.”

What about winter? Owain shares his thoughts … “Dark night skies and wild weather! We are fortunate to have almost no light pollution on Eigg, the winter gives a fantastic opportunity to observe the night sky and catch a glimpse of the stunning aurora borealis (northern lights). And no winter would be complete without experiencing some stormy weather! A bracing winter walk is exhilarating and a great way to blow away the cobwebs.”

Gaelic / Gàidhlig

The Gaelic name for Eigg is Eige.

Want to say ‘cheers’ in Gaelic? That would be ‘slàinte mhath‘!

Collect your travelogue stamp!

If you have one of our paper travelogues you can collect your stamp using the brass rubbing plate located at the new pier building.

Why not download the Scottish Islands Passport app to collect digital stamps!

Getting Here

CalMac Ferries operates regular sailings to Eigg from Mallaig on the mainland in a service that connects all of the Small Isles. Some sailings go via other islands.

The MV Sheerwater operates regular passenger sailing to Eigg from Mallaig on the mainland, and onwards from Eigg to Muck and Rum.