Farm cabins in Rum National Nature Reserve

One of the Small Isles, in Scotland’s Inner Hebrides, the entire island of Rùm is a national nature reserve. The island is home to extinct volcanoes, rugged mountains, beautiful beaches, soaring sea cliffs, misty glens and plentiful wildlife that includes one of the world’s largest colonies of Manx shearwater. You can explore Kinloch Castle, join a guided wildlife walk, hike along a nature trail, kayak along the coast, spot otters and seals along the shores of Loch Scresort, or climb the mountain ridges of the Cuillin Peaks. On Loch Scresort, Kinloch Village Campsite is a basic campsite run by the Isle of Rum Community Trust. There are also cabins on the island, as well as a couple of bothies.

Spring and summer are the best seasons to visit for enjoying long daylight hours; your best chance of good weather, and spotting wildlife, from birds of prey including golden eagles,  white-tailed eagles and merlin soaring overhead to Manx shearwater rafting offshore.Summer is an especially good time to see red deer in their summer coats. Fall is also a good option: the landscape is ablaze with rich colors and you can see the spectacle of rutting red deer.

• Wild camping is permitted as long as you adhere to the Scottish Outdoor Access Code. If you plan to stay in a bothy, check the bothy code in advance.
• The weather conditions can change dramatically. Be sure to bring warm, wet-weather gear and sturdy footwear.
• Roads are unpaved and only locals are permitted to bring cars onto the island. Expect to walk almost everywhere. Hiring a bicycle is possible, but pedaling along the rough and steep tracks is not for the fainthearted.
• There is no restaurant on the island, and the village shop sells a limited selection of groceries. It’s a good idea to bring at least some supplies with you.