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The islands of Canna, Eigg, Muck and Rum lie just south of the Isle of Skye, sitting between the west coast Scottish mainland and the Western Isles. Each island has an abundance of wildlife, rich heritage and incredible landscapes but, while they are close together, each island feels very different. One thing they have in common is they each generate their own electricity from renewable sources.
Meet the Locals
Get to know the people of the Small Isles and read their stories.
Fliss Fraser, Isle of Rum
Fliss Fraser has lived on Rum for over 20 years. She worked in a variety of roles across the island before setting up a guesthouse, Ivy Cottage, in 2011.
A creative person at heart, Fliss feels a strong connection to the island, its nature, and the sea surrounding them. Since moving to the island, she has never lived more than a few metres away from the sea. "There's something about the ebb and flow of the water that gets in one's veins and becomes a part of them. When away from the island, even just for a few days, I find myself longing to return home".
In recent years, wild swimming has become a significant part of her life. A chance encounter one winter got Fliss into cold water swimming. Despite living next to the sea for many years and always loving swimming, she hadn't really embraced cold water, but now she is hooked. 'I find a quick swim or dip in the morning is great for my wellbeing, and I feel truly blessed". In 2022, she achieved STA Level 2 Open Water Swimming Coach certification and takes pride in being a Mental Health Swim Host. Last year she qualified as a breathwork coach and became a women's circle leader with The Wild Woman Project.
There are various places to hop into the water on the island - in the sea at Kinloch, the beautiful beach at Kilmory, a variety of pools and waterfalls on the rivers, and fresh water peaty hill lochs. Fliss is spending some time exploring and writing a swimming guide for Rùm, which she hopes to share soon.
Actively involved in local community development, It is a privilege for Fliss to share the island with visitors. Whether individuals are just booking accommodation and planning their own itinerary or joining her for a micro adventure, she hopes that everyone leaves with the same awe and serenity that she feels every day living on this island she calls home.
You can find out more about Fliss and the services she offers at https://www.ivycottageisleofrum.co.uk/. Learn more about the Isle of Rum at www.https://www.isleofrum.com/.
A creative person at heart, Fliss feels a strong connection to the island, its nature, and the sea surrounding them. Since moving to the island, she has never lived more than a few metres away from the sea. "There's something about the ebb and flow of the water that gets in one's veins and becomes a part of them. When away from the island, even just for a few days, I find myself longing to return home".
In recent years, wild swimming has become a significant part of her life. A chance encounter one winter got Fliss into cold water swimming. Despite living next to the sea for many years and always loving swimming, she hadn't really embraced cold water, but now she is hooked. 'I find a quick swim or dip in the morning is great for my wellbeing, and I feel truly blessed". In 2022, she achieved STA Level 2 Open Water Swimming Coach certification and takes pride in being a Mental Health Swim Host. Last year she qualified as a breathwork coach and became a women's circle leader with The Wild Woman Project.
There are various places to hop into the water on the island - in the sea at Kinloch, the beautiful beach at Kilmory, a variety of pools and waterfalls on the rivers, and fresh water peaty hill lochs. Fliss is spending some time exploring and writing a swimming guide for Rùm, which she hopes to share soon.
Actively involved in local community development, It is a privilege for Fliss to share the island with visitors. Whether individuals are just booking accommodation and planning their own itinerary or joining her for a micro adventure, she hopes that everyone leaves with the same awe and serenity that she feels every day living on this island she calls home.
You can find out more about Fliss and the services she offers at https://www.ivycottageisleofrum.co.uk/. Learn more about the Isle of Rum at www.https://www.isleofrum.com/.
Sandy Mathers, Isle of Muck
A Seafaring Legacy
Meet Sandy. His days start early. As well as fishing, he has to fit in working the croft and meeting the ferry at the pier in his role as ferry docker. His connection to the sea runs deep, a legacy passed down through generations. As a child, his grandfather would take him out creel fishing on a small wooden dinghy using handmade wooden creels. His father embarked on a fishing career in the 1970’s when they moved to Muck. Tragically, he was lost at sea when Sandy was just ten years old.
After college, Sandy joined the crew of Brian Walters' creel boat, working tirelessly off the coast of Muck. With each haul and every storm weathered, he was one step closer to owning his own boat - The Little Red Boat.
Navigating the Elements
The weather in this coastal region can change in the blink of an eye. Sandy learned a valuable lesson from Brian Walters – if you find yourself gazing at the sea for too long to decide whether it's safe to fish, it's probably best to stay ashore. The Scottish weather, after all, is known for its capricious nature. The impacts of which were felt keenly last November when the Little Red Boat was destroyed whilst moored. Thankfully no one was on board at the time but losing the boat was a massive setback for Sandy and his family. The Muck community and supporters rallied round and Sandy was able to purchase a new boat, the Heather Belle, and make further plans for the future.
Sustainable Fishing
But life at sea is more than just work for Sandy. On his fishing adventures, he's been graced by magnificent sightings of whales, dolphins, and even sharks swimming gracefully around his boat. Each encounter is a reminder of the incredible beauty of the marine world. The heart of Sandy's work lies in his sustainable fishing methods and his commitment to locality. Everything is sold locally - to local people, visitors and businesses in Muck, Mallaig, and Arisaig.
Future Plans
Sandy and his wife Vicky are moving to the next stage of the business: setting up a seafood kitchen, where they can cook and prepare their catch for sale making it even easier to enjoy their wonderful seafood. They are hoping to be fully up and running with this by Spring 2024.
If you are visiting the Isle of Muck, get in touch with Sandy or Vicky and enjoy the freshest seafood caught in the rich, cold waters off the west coast of Scotland.
Sandy Mathers
M - 07444 799787
E - vickythelittleredboat@gmail.com
Meet Sandy. His days start early. As well as fishing, he has to fit in working the croft and meeting the ferry at the pier in his role as ferry docker. His connection to the sea runs deep, a legacy passed down through generations. As a child, his grandfather would take him out creel fishing on a small wooden dinghy using handmade wooden creels. His father embarked on a fishing career in the 1970’s when they moved to Muck. Tragically, he was lost at sea when Sandy was just ten years old.
After college, Sandy joined the crew of Brian Walters' creel boat, working tirelessly off the coast of Muck. With each haul and every storm weathered, he was one step closer to owning his own boat - The Little Red Boat.
Navigating the Elements
The weather in this coastal region can change in the blink of an eye. Sandy learned a valuable lesson from Brian Walters – if you find yourself gazing at the sea for too long to decide whether it's safe to fish, it's probably best to stay ashore. The Scottish weather, after all, is known for its capricious nature. The impacts of which were felt keenly last November when the Little Red Boat was destroyed whilst moored. Thankfully no one was on board at the time but losing the boat was a massive setback for Sandy and his family. The Muck community and supporters rallied round and Sandy was able to purchase a new boat, the Heather Belle, and make further plans for the future.
Sustainable Fishing
But life at sea is more than just work for Sandy. On his fishing adventures, he's been graced by magnificent sightings of whales, dolphins, and even sharks swimming gracefully around his boat. Each encounter is a reminder of the incredible beauty of the marine world. The heart of Sandy's work lies in his sustainable fishing methods and his commitment to locality. Everything is sold locally - to local people, visitors and businesses in Muck, Mallaig, and Arisaig.
Future Plans
Sandy and his wife Vicky are moving to the next stage of the business: setting up a seafood kitchen, where they can cook and prepare their catch for sale making it even easier to enjoy their wonderful seafood. They are hoping to be fully up and running with this by Spring 2024.
If you are visiting the Isle of Muck, get in touch with Sandy or Vicky and enjoy the freshest seafood caught in the rich, cold waters off the west coast of Scotland.
Sandy Mathers
M - 07444 799787
E - vickythelittleredboat@gmail.com
Owain Wyn-Jones, Isle of Eigg
Meet Owain, the visionary behind Eigg Adventures, your go-to destination for thrilling e-bike, bike, and kayak experiences on the beautiful Isle of Eigg.
He first visited Eigg whilst working on the support crew for the daring long-distance swimmer, Sean Conway, who swam the length of Britain in 2013. He fell in love with the island and in 2015 he made his way over to work a winter season. Most people who fall in love with Eigg do so over the summer months when the days are long and the weather good. If you still love it over winter it’s a good indicator that you will be happy living here. When the chance arose to take on Eigg Adventures, Owain seized it, merging his expertise with his passion for Eigg.
A typical day starts at 6:30 am. Getting up early allows time for meditation and to take in the breathtaking island views. “Why live here if not to savour the beauty that surrounds us”? The official workday starts about 9am. Organising, communicating and responding to queries before heading to the base to prepare the fleet for the day’s escapades. A pitstop at Galmisdale Bay Cafe for a well-deserved coffee punctuates the bustling schedule.
By 10 am, Eigg Adventures opens its doors, ready for passengers disembarking from the Sheerwater and then the Calmac ferry. Owain welcomes visitors, pouring his passion for the island into personalised recommendations tailored to their interests. “It's not just about bikes and kayaks; it's about sharing the essence of Eigg—its community ownership, independence, and vibrant energy”.
Although the summer season is busy, time can always be carved out for a plunge of the pier. The crystal clear waters around Eigg are perfect for swimming, kayaking and snorkelling.
His favourite way to spend a day is a sea to summit walk. Starting the day with a dip in the sea before walking to the second highest point on the island - Ben Tighe. “It's beautiful and quiet and the walk has spectacular views of the Sgurr ridge. On a quiet day you can hear the deers from Rum roaring”. The perfect way to end the adventure is with another sea swim.
Throughout Autumn and Winter, it’s possible to book Owain for a bespoke guiding experience showcasing Eigg’s less discovered gems. Connect with him at the contact details below to find out more.
Owain Wyn-Jones
www.eiggadventures.co.uk
He first visited Eigg whilst working on the support crew for the daring long-distance swimmer, Sean Conway, who swam the length of Britain in 2013. He fell in love with the island and in 2015 he made his way over to work a winter season. Most people who fall in love with Eigg do so over the summer months when the days are long and the weather good. If you still love it over winter it’s a good indicator that you will be happy living here. When the chance arose to take on Eigg Adventures, Owain seized it, merging his expertise with his passion for Eigg.
A typical day starts at 6:30 am. Getting up early allows time for meditation and to take in the breathtaking island views. “Why live here if not to savour the beauty that surrounds us”? The official workday starts about 9am. Organising, communicating and responding to queries before heading to the base to prepare the fleet for the day’s escapades. A pitstop at Galmisdale Bay Cafe for a well-deserved coffee punctuates the bustling schedule.
By 10 am, Eigg Adventures opens its doors, ready for passengers disembarking from the Sheerwater and then the Calmac ferry. Owain welcomes visitors, pouring his passion for the island into personalised recommendations tailored to their interests. “It's not just about bikes and kayaks; it's about sharing the essence of Eigg—its community ownership, independence, and vibrant energy”.
Although the summer season is busy, time can always be carved out for a plunge of the pier. The crystal clear waters around Eigg are perfect for swimming, kayaking and snorkelling.
His favourite way to spend a day is a sea to summit walk. Starting the day with a dip in the sea before walking to the second highest point on the island - Ben Tighe. “It's beautiful and quiet and the walk has spectacular views of the Sgurr ridge. On a quiet day you can hear the deers from Rum roaring”. The perfect way to end the adventure is with another sea swim.
Throughout Autumn and Winter, it’s possible to book Owain for a bespoke guiding experience showcasing Eigg’s less discovered gems. Connect with him at the contact details below to find out more.
Owain Wyn-Jones
www.eiggadventures.co.uk
Gareth Cole, Isle of Canna
Six years ago, Gareth Cole and his family moved to the beautiful Isle of Canna to run Café Canna: a small intimate restaurant known for its exceptional use of fresh, local ingredients and its unique culinary experience.
A typical day for Gareth starts with baking fresh bread, followed by catching langoustines to serve for lunch, and preparing cakes, soups, sides, and dinner bases. Depending on the tide, he might also forage for seaweed, which is abundant and of remarkable quality on Canna. Working alongside his small team, Gareth serves food and manages the bar until closing time, around 10-11 pm.
Gareth is passionate about Canna, a place he describes as unique for its untouched landscapes, the absence of tarmac roads, and even an honesty shop that thrives in the community. However, for him, Canna's real charm lies in its outstanding local produce. From the best lobsters, crabs, and langoustines to incredibly fertile land that produces fantastic vegetables and meat, Canna offers a bounty of fresh ingredients that inspire his culinary creations.
While living on a remote island poses challenges, Gareth feels at home on Canna and finds few difficulties, aside from the occasional craving for Chinese food. His ideal day off involves setting out on a boat, catching fresh mackerel, and heading to a secluded beach for a kelp-wrapped barbecue and a refreshing swim, capped off with spontaneous music back on the island.
Spring is Gareth’s favourite season, when lambing brings new life to the island and the weather is surprisingly good—perfect for sailing and enjoying the natural beauty. He encourages visitors to explore Canna’s lesser-known activities, like seaweed foraging, which he is happy to guide. His advice is to visit in the off-season months like March, April, or September when the weather can be just as favourable as in summer, and the island's relaxed pace offers a more authentic experience.
A typical day for Gareth starts with baking fresh bread, followed by catching langoustines to serve for lunch, and preparing cakes, soups, sides, and dinner bases. Depending on the tide, he might also forage for seaweed, which is abundant and of remarkable quality on Canna. Working alongside his small team, Gareth serves food and manages the bar until closing time, around 10-11 pm.
Gareth is passionate about Canna, a place he describes as unique for its untouched landscapes, the absence of tarmac roads, and even an honesty shop that thrives in the community. However, for him, Canna's real charm lies in its outstanding local produce. From the best lobsters, crabs, and langoustines to incredibly fertile land that produces fantastic vegetables and meat, Canna offers a bounty of fresh ingredients that inspire his culinary creations.
While living on a remote island poses challenges, Gareth feels at home on Canna and finds few difficulties, aside from the occasional craving for Chinese food. His ideal day off involves setting out on a boat, catching fresh mackerel, and heading to a secluded beach for a kelp-wrapped barbecue and a refreshing swim, capped off with spontaneous music back on the island.
Spring is Gareth’s favourite season, when lambing brings new life to the island and the weather is surprisingly good—perfect for sailing and enjoying the natural beauty. He encourages visitors to explore Canna’s lesser-known activities, like seaweed foraging, which he is happy to guide. His advice is to visit in the off-season months like March, April, or September when the weather can be just as favourable as in summer, and the island's relaxed pace offers a more authentic experience.
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