Summer Isles
Islands Remote archipelago off northwest Scotland with scenic coastlines
Archipelago off Scotland’s northwest coast reachable by boat from Ullapool; visitors come for sea‑kayaking, fishing charters and watching seals and seabird colonies from small boats.
The Summer Isles are a small archipelago off the northwest coast of Scotland, situated near the mainland village and harbour of Ullapool. The group includes several small rocky islands and skerries and is known for coastal scenery and wildlife.
On the islands visitors encounter rugged shoreline, seabird colonies and simple walking opportunities; commercial visitor facilities are limited and most visits are by private boat or small ferry from the mainland. Tanera Mòr is the largest island and has historically been the focus of settlement and limited visitor accommodation.
The islands supported small crofting communities in historic times and experienced depopulation during the 19th and 20th centuries, leaving many of the isles largely uninhabited except for seasonal use. Today they are used mainly for recreation and nature observation.
Geographically the Summer Isles lie off the west coast of Ross and Cromarty in northwest Scotland, close to the mainland port of Ullapool and within the coastal seascape of the North Atlantic.
- Access: Best accessed by boat from the west-coast port of Ullapool; visits are typically seasonal and weather-dependent.
- Wildlife and activities: Island group hosts seabirds and coastal wildlife and offers low-intensity walking and coastal scenery rather than developed tourist facilities.
What to See #
- Tanera Mòr: Tanera Mòr, the largest island in the group, historically had the main settlement and has been used for seasonal holiday accommodation in recent years.
How to Get to Summer Isles #
Boat trips depart from coastal villages such as Achiltibuie and Ullapool; private charters are common. The nearest ferry and larger transport hub is Ullapool - from there arrange a local boat operator. Landings depend on sea conditions and the particular isle.
Tips for Visiting Summer Isles #
- Use a small, local boat charter from Achiltibuie or Ullapool to reach the islands - private operators know the safe landing spots and wildlife hotspots.
- Bring a waterproof camera and a lens with good zoom for otters, seals, and seabird colonies.
- Avoid attempting landings in large swell; the islands are exposed and weather can change quickly.
- Respect nesting seasons and no‑land signs - some islets are strictly protected for birds.
Best Time to Visit Summer Isles #
Summer offers the most reliable weather and boat access; spring and early autumn provide wildlife interest with fewer day‑trip crowds.
