Seil

Seil is a small island in the Inner Hebrides of Scotland, part of the Argyll and Bute council area. It lies off the eastern coast of Argyll, near Oban, in Loch Creran and the Sound of Seil. The island covers rural landscapes of farmland and rocky shorelines, with a few small settlements. A road bridge connects Seil to the mainland, providing road access for residents and visitors.

Historically, Seil is notable for slate quarrying at Ellenabeich on its southern coast, which developed into a community in the 19th century. Although the quarries are no longer active, the site and related buildings remain part of the island’s heritage and attract interest from visitors. Today the local economy revolves around tourism, agriculture, and fishing, with guesthouses, shops, and services that support a tranquil rural lifestyle.

Ecology and culture: Seil features coastal habitats that support seabirds and marine life, set within a landscape of fields, woods, and shorelines. The island is popular with walkers and cyclists who seek scenic views and relatively quiet routes in the west of Scotland. Politically, Seil is part of the Argyll and Bute region and is governed by the local council, with a small, enduring community shaped by maritime history, land use, and island life in Scotland.