While Scotland's coastline is famed for its serene beaches and verdant scenery, a particular cluster of islands offers journeys of even more dramatic beauty. The Small Isles of the Inner Hebrides – Canna, Rum, Eigg, and Muck – are accessible via a network of ferry routes celebrated for their spectacular views.
Affordable Island Hopping in the Hebrides
Travellers can embark on these scenic voyages with Caledonian MacBrayne (CalMac). Services depart from the mainland port of Mallaig in the Highlands, calling at each of the four islands. For those looking to explore, winter provides a particularly cost-effective opportunity.
Adult single fares start from just £5.25 for the trip from Mallaig to Eigg, with a return priced at £10.50. A ticket to Rum costs £5.80, to Muck is £6.05, and the journey to Canna is £7.10. These promotional prices are valid until March 26, 2026, making long-term travel planning a possibility.
A Journey Hailed as Scotland's Most Spectacular
The beauty of these routes is not just promotional hype. One travel enthusiast, known as @thechaoticscot on TikTok, recently documented her experience sailing to the Isle of Muck. She hailed it as 'the most spectacular ferry journey in the whole of Scotland'.
She praised the 'loveliest and friendliest crew' and enjoyed the outdoor deck seating, which offers panoramic views. During her five-hour voyage, which included stops at Canna and Rum, she witnessed the 'lush landscapes and remote beaches of mountainous Rum' and the 'peaceful shores and cliffs of Canna'.
Contrasting Island Opportunities
For those captivated by the idea of owning their own Scottish island, an unusual opportunity arose last year. Gasker Island, spanning approximately 70 acres, was listed for around £120,000. It features a rocky coastline, fertile grassland, small lochs, and a seal colony.
However, its sole structure is a small, unmanned lighthouse maintained by the Northern Lighthouse Board. The island's remoteness – five miles from the nearest inhabited island and 75 miles from a train station – makes it a potential paradise for an introvert, but challenging tide conditions and a complete lack of amenities render it inhospitable for most.
In contrast, the scheduled CalMac services to the Small Isles provide a accessible and reliably breathtaking way to experience the majestic isolation and wildlife of Scotland's west coast, without the need to buy your own island.
