Island Intro
Rum has a thriving community that lives alongside some spectacular scenery and amazing wildlife.
Ask an Islander
To give us the lowdown on all things Rum, we’ve asked Jed from Rum Bunkhouse who was more than happy to share the best of island life with us.
“If you love hill-walking, cycling or canoeing, Rum is the perfect island adventure for you.
“The freedom is something that I try to appreciate and not take for granted,” Jed says. “We have a National Nature Reserve on our doorstep and, especially during the summer, you can seize the day when the sun is out by getting out on the hill, cycling over to Kilmory or Harris, canoe in the bay or get the barbecue out.”
And there are plenty of walks to enjoy too, as Jed tells us. “A walk up Coire Dubh to Hallival is my favourite. The moonscape-like rocks and beautiful views of the mainland and the Outer Hebrides are some of the privileges of living on the island. Access to the island’s beauty is on our doorstep.”
If there’s one thing they know how to do on Rum, it’s throwing a good island barbecue! “We make good use of the village BBQ,” Jed tells us. “We have impromptu gatherings – usually cooking steaks or handmade Venison burgers. However, my favourite dish is the Venison lasagne that is available at the local village café – Kim’s Kitchen Isle of Rum.”
Gaelic / Gàidhlig
The Gaelic name for the island of Rum is Rùm.
You will often see the word ‘Dubh‘ in Gaelic place names. In English this usually means ‘black’ or ‘dark’.
Collect your travelogue stamp!
If you have one of our paper travelogues you can collect your stamp using the brass rubbing plate located at Rum Bunkhouse.
Why not download the Scottish Islands Passport app to collect digital stamps!
Getting Here
CalMac Ferries operates regular sailings to Rùm from Mallaig on the mainland, in a service that connects all the Small Isles. Some sailings go via other islands.
The MV Sheerwater operates regular passenger sailing to Rùm from Mallaig on the mainland, via Eigg and Muck.
Explore More
Want to find out more about Rùm and explore more of our amazing islands?
Download the free Scottish Islands Passport app to:
- discover your perfect island match,
- find out about the experiences each island has to offer,
- collect passport stamps for the islands you visit,
- find information on accommodation, travel and island amenities.