Crowlin Islands Islands

The Crowlin Islands are a small, uninhabited group off the northwest coast of Scotland in the Inner Hebrides. The group includes three principal islets and is noted locally for its rugged shoreline and seabird colonies.

The islands offer coastal scenery, rocky shorelines and wildlife viewing rather than developed facilities. Boat trips around the islands provide the most reliable views, including seabird colonies and sheltered coves, while landings are possible only in calm conditions.

The islands have been shown on nautical charts for centuries and were used intermittently for grazing and seasonal activities by local communities; there is limited evidence of past human use. They have remained without permanent modern settlement.

They lie off the northwest Scottish mainland between the Isle of Skye and the Applecross/Torridon coast in Wester Ross, accessible from mainland harbors by boat.

• Access: Access is by private boat or organized boat trip only, and landings require calm weather and good tidal timing.
• Wildlife and viewing: Important for seabirds and coastal scenery, best observed from vessels or nearby mainland viewpoints such as the Applecross and Torridon coasts.

What to See#

• Main islands: The group comprises three principal islands commonly named Eilean Mòr, Eilean Meadhonach and Eilean Beag, all low, rocky and largely uninhabited; landings are by private boat and coastal landing spots are limited.

Access is by private boat or organized wildlife cruises from ports on Skye or the mainland (e.g., Plockton or Kyle). Sea conditions are variable; book with experienced local skippers who know the tidal shelves.

• Visits are generally by boat-book with local skippers from the Isle of Skye or the Isle of Mull who run island-hopping trips.
• Prepare for minimal facilities; camping is possible in marked places but bring supplies and check regulations.
• Watch for seals, nesting seabirds and occasional cetaceans; binoculars are worthwhile.