Things you didn't know about... The Isle of Scalpay

Traffic is not a problem on the Isle of Scalpay
There is no traffic on the Isle of Scalpay—because there are no roads. Access to the island is via a ferry; visitors must leave their cars on the Isle of Skye. The total vehicle count on the Isle of Scalpay is two tractors, one truck and a quad bike. Some tougher mountain bikes occasionally visit too—but no cars.

The Isle of Scalpay is privately owned
Still privately owned today, the Isle of Scalpay once belonged to the shipping magnate and politician Sir Donald Currie, who made much of his money by developing shipping routes to South Africa in the late 19th century.

The Isle of Scalpay has a mainland sister in Perthshire
Previous island owner Sir Donald Currie is credited with much of the construction and tree planting on the island. He was also largely responsible for the development of the village of Fortingall in Perthshire, a prime example of the Scottish Arts & Crafts Movement.

There are no shops on the Isle of Scalpay
The Isle of Scalpay is an entirely commerce-free zone. All provisions must be bought by visitors beforehand and taken over on the boat.

Bambi would have felt at home on the Isle of Scalpay
There is a healthy population of red deer on the Isle of Scalpay.

The Isle of Scalpay, a place to get away from it all
Just off the Isle of Skye, the Isle of Scalpay occupies an area of about ten square miles. It is the perfect retreat for someone wanting to get away from it all, though some areas are only accessible by track or sea.

Stalking and walking and fishing on The Isle of Scalpay
There are plenty of fish to catch on the shores of the Isle of Scalpay, and there is a managed population of stags and hinds for stalking.

You've a one-in-three chance of renting a house on the Isle of Scalpay
The three dwellings on the Isle of Scalpay are The Garden Cottage, The Keeper's Cottage and The Narrows Cottage. They are available to rent over the summer months.