Sustainable Tourism - Leading the way

The Small Isles are often described as beautiful - and they are - but what really stays with people is how the islands work. These are living, working communities where tourism has grown slowly and thoughtfully, shaped by the people who call the islands home. Visitors aren’t just passing through a landscape; they’re stepping into places with their own rhythms, priorities and ways of doing things.

Across Eigg, Rùm, Canna and Muck, tourism is closely tied to community life, local decision-making and care for the environment. It’s not about growth for growth’s sake, but about finding a balance that supports island livelihoods while protecting what makes these places special in the first place. In many ways, the Small Isles quietly offer an alternative way of thinking about tourism - one rooted in connection, cooperation and long-term stewardship.

Connecting visitors with the Community

Visitors are encouraged to engage, learn and spend time in ways that feel meaningful rather than extractive. On Eigg, guided tours of the community-owned Eigg Electric scheme and tree nursery offer a practical insight into how the island runs on renewable energy and local initiative.

There’s also a strong culture of shared skills and volunteering. At Canna Campsite, for example, visitors are sometimes invited to contribute what they can - whether that’s web design, practical maintenance or creative skills. These exchanges tend to be informal and low-key, but they often leave people feeling more connected to the place than a traditional holiday ever could.

Muck Community Enterprise owns and operates a hall which acts as a hub for visitors where all funds raised go back to the community fund. Their Green shed is a space for the community to sell local produce and crafts on an honesty system. All of the visitor accommodation is owned and managed by those living on Muck.

Each island offers distinct accommodation options with options to support community tourism. On Rùm, the community-owned bunkhouse, glamping cabins and campsite provide a cosy retreat for visitors. All profits from Rùm Enterprise go back into community projects, ongoing costs and expanding what the island offers.

Through Visit Small Isles, we’ve noticed a growing curiosity about how island communities live sustainably - not as a concept, but as a day-to-day reality shaped by weather, resources and cooperation.

Embracing the Off-Season

While summer brings longer days and busier ferries, the Small Isles have a quieter appeal outside the traditional season. Autumn and winter offer something completely different to visitors but no less valuable. Visit Small Isles encourages people to consider visiting at this time and enjoy activities such as:

• The red deer rut on Rùm;

• Dark skies across all four islands; and

• Cold-water swimming.

Walking routes feel wilder, colours deepen, and the weather becomes part of the experience rather than something to work around. Encouraging off-season visits is one way we take a more holistic view of tourism - supporting local businesses year-round while easing pressure during the busiest months.

The Small Isles aren’t trying to be everything to everyone. What they offer instead is something quieter and more considered - a chance to visit places where tourism supports everyday life, rather than shaping it. For those willing to slow down, spend time and meet the islands on their own terms, the experience is a richer one.