Colonsay

Colonsay is an island in the Inner Hebrides of Scotland, located off the west coast of Argyll and Bute. It lies to the north of Islay and to the south of Mull and Jura, with the small island of Oronsay to its east. Administratively it is part of the Argyll and Bute council area. The island’s main settlement is Scalasaig, a coastal village on the east coast, with other settlements including Kilchattan and Kiloran. The island is connected to Oronsay by a tidal isthmus that becomes passable at low tide.

The landscape is varied, with machair plains on the west and higher moorland inland. Shrubs and woodlands provide habitat for a range of wildlife, and the coast supports seabirds and wading birds. The island is noted for its wildlife and scenic coastlines. It has a long history, with Gaelic and Norse influences evident in place names and archaeology. Colonsay House, a private estate, maintains gardens that are open to visitors and form a focal point for tourism.

Transport links include a ferry service from Oban on the Scottish mainland and a small airstrip, Colonsay Airport, which handles light aircraft. The economy is driven by crofting, tourism, and small local businesses, with visitors drawn to its coastline, wildlife, and peaceful countryside.