Eigg
The name ‘Eigg’ is taken from the Gaelic 'Eige' meaning 'hollow'. The most noticeable feature on the island is the 'Sgurr'. This distinctively shaped ridge of columnar pitchstone reaches a height of 1290’ above sea level. Although carved from volcanic rock, the peak of the Sgurr is not a volcano.
To the west of the island, the geology is different with strange sand stone rock formations. The sandstone forming the cliffs at Laig Bay is constantly being eroded by the sea, adding new sand to Camas Sgiotaig – The Singing Sands. The sands emit a sound when walked upon when they are dry or nearly so.
About a mile to the south of the old pier lie two caves. The Cathedral Cave was once used for Roman Catholic Services. The Cave of Francis is also known as the Massacre Cave. In the 16th century, due to an ongoing feud between the MacDonalds and the MacLeods, the entire population of Eigg (c400) perished when the MacLeods lit a fire at the entrance to the cave where the islanders were hiding.
In 1997, after several changes in the island’s ownership, Eigg was purchased in a buy-out by the islanders in partnership with the Scottish Wildlife Trust and the Highland Council. Since then a new Pier Centre has been constructed which houses a T-Room, Shop /Post Office, Craft Shop, toilets and showers. This has proved to be an excellent facility for locals and visitors.
As well as being rich in history and geology, Eigg boasts a wide variety of wildlife and plant life. May and June are the best times to visit for a chance to see the many birds and varied plants on the island, a few of which are listed below.
Birds: Manx Shearwater, Arctic Tern, Twite, Treecreeper, Coal Tit, Willow Warbler, Whinchat, Rock Pipit, Skylark, Golden Eagle.
Plants: Norwegian Sandwort, Mountain Avens, Saxifrage, Orchids, Wild Garlic, Enchanters Nightshade, Cushion Pink, Artic Sandwort.
Whether visiting for the day or for a week, visitors are well catered for on Eigg. Facilities include a well-stocked Shop with Post Office, an excellent Café, Craft Shop, Bike Hire, Mini Bus and a wide range of accommodation.
Booklets detailing various local walks are available from the Craft Shop. The climb to the top of the Sgurr takes about 1½ -2 hrs and is well worth the effort for the spectacular views.
The Sheerwater leaves Arisaig for Eigg at 11.00am every day except Thursday throughout the season. She also provides a charter service outwith this and regularly takes groups out to Eigg either in the evening or early morning depending on the schedule.
Minke Whales, Dolphins, Seals and Porpoises are regularly seen on the crossing to Eigg. Visit our Gallery to see some of our photos.
Find out more about Eigg and the accommodation available by visiting their web site which you can get to by visiting our “Links” page.