Eight stunning tidal islands in Scotland you can walk over to during low tide

It is hardly a secret Scotland is home to a lot of islands.

Depending on who you ask, the country features as many as 800 or 900 dotted all around its coast. Some of these are big and famous, like Skye and Mull, but most are tiny and uninhabited.

Out of all of the small islands you have probably never heard of, there are a few that have something very unique about them that makes them well worth a visit. The Daily Record has rounded up eight ‘tidal islands’ that can actually be reached on foot — though only at low tide.

Anyone looking for an adventure in Scotland that extra bit exciting should make their way over to one of these islands. As well as offering stunning views, there is something so thrilling about knowing you only have a few hours before your path home is submerged underwater.

If you plan on venturing out to a tidal island for yourself, it is crucial you check local tide times before setting off. The last thing you want is to be stranded alone overnight.

Read on for a roundup of eight of the most picturesque tidal islands in Scotland you can only reach during low tide.

Eilean Tioram, Lochaber

This small tidal island within Loch Moidart in Lochaber is easily most famous for the spectacular ruins of Castle Tioram that sit at its centre. Dating back to the 13th century, and the traditional seat of Clan MacDonald, the ruined castle dominates the peaceful views over the loch.

To reach Eilean Tioram and Castle Tioram, you can walk across the tidal causeway where it joins the River Shiel on foot. Be warned, however, access inside is blocked due to the risk of falling debris.

Erraid, Isle of Mull

Erraid is a tiny island in the Inner Hebrides accessible on foot from the Isle of Mull via a beach submerged at high tide. It is home to the Findhorn Foundation, which offers spiritual retreats and getaways.

The tidal island has the distinction of being among the most sunny and dry places in Scotland, seeing around 1,350 hours of sunshine and just 1,000 millimetres of rain each year. Meanwhile, it is also famous for being one of the islands featured in the novel Kidnapped by Robert Louis Stevenson, with the Scots author visiting the island as a boy.

Davaar, Kintyre peninsula

Linked to the mainland via a natural shingle causeway near Campbeltown called Doìrlinn, Davaar is a privately owned tidal island that has four holiday cottages and cabins that can be rented out for a “a truly unique holiday away from it all”.

Among Davaar’s most unique features is a secluded cave home to a life-size painting of the Crucifixion of Jesus Christ. The one-of-a-kind work of art, which needs to be seen to be truly appreciated, was painted in 1887 by local artist Archibald MacKinnon after being instructed to do so in a vision.

Cramond Island, Edinburgh

Cramond Island is found just off the coast of Edinburgh. It is accessed by a paved path that becomes submerged underneath several feet of water at high tide.

One of the most interesting aspects of the island is it features a variety of unique military fortifications dating back to World War Two. There are ruins of wartime bunkers dotted around Cramond, while it also offers breathtaking views out over Edinburgh at its highest point.

Brough of Birsay, Orkney

According to Historic Environment Scotland, this “very special” tidal island in Orkney can be reached on foot via causeway. It features many of the archipelago’s highlights — history, wildlife, and scenery — in one tiny package.

Once you are there, you can explore a fascinating collection of Pictish, Norse and medieval remains. With artefacts such as brooches, rings, and dress pins found on the island, historians believe it may have been a Pictish power centre.

Vallay, North Uist

Vallay is a breathtaking tidal island deserted since 1945, when its owner George Beveridge was killed in a boating accident. At one time, it is said to have been home to as many as 60 people.

Some of the notable features of the island include prehistoric monuments and an ancient chapel. It is also known a top destination for seabird spotting, for the animal lovers out there.

Oronsay, Isle of Skye

If you find yourself on the Isle of Skye this summer, it is definitely worth your time visiting the uninhabited tidal island of Oronsay in Loch Bracadale on its west coast. At low tide, it is joined to Skye’s Ullinish Point by a narrow rocky causeway around 200 metres long.

Featuring jaw-dropping cliffs that dramatically drop to the sea, Oronsay is unsurprisingly a top hiking destination. Its name is said to come from the Old Norse word for ‘tidal island’.

Danna, Argyll

Finally we come to Danna in Argyll, which can be reached from the mainland via a narrow isthmus that separates Loch Sween from the Sound of Jura. According to a census in 2011, its population was recorded as just a single person.

The island, or peninsula depending who you ask, is comprised mainly of farmland. It is also a part of the Knapdale National Scenic Area, so amazing views are guaranteed.

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