FERRY GOOD
Hop on a boat to Raasay, an island that has it all.
IT has a recently opened distillery and new, contemporary accommodation with views to die for, so it’s not surprising the small island of Raasay is a hot destination right now, ideal for those seeking a stylish break in a stunning corner of unspoiled Scotland.
Considering how remote Raasay is, it’s not that difficult to reach. Admittedly, the drive to the Isle of Skye can be a long one depending where you live, but from there it’s a short 25-minute hop on the ferry to Raasay. The ferries run regularly and the starting ticket price for adults is £1.95. For a few pounds guests are whisked away to a unique island escape with breathtaking vistas and a choice of activities. We marched off the ferry on to the pier, quietly awestruck by the scenery. After following the single road for a few minutes we reached the slick new accommodation at Raasay Distillery.
As well as modern rooms, its Guest Lounge offers ample tweed armchairs, sofas and a picture window with staggering views over the Sound of Raasay.
The Gathering Room (where breakfast is served) boasts floor-to-ceiling windows with a panorama over the water.
It’s a restful yet smart setting for an island break in a beautiful location.
The distillery itself is another new business on this small yet perfectly formed island. It uses its own spring water, and aims to produce, mature, and eventually bottle whisky on site. As it takes three years to legally create a Scottish single malt, the distillery team has bottled “While We Wait” in the meantime – a peated dram, matured in Tuscan red wine casks.
As the distillery is new, a one-hour tour takes in gleaming copper stills, and shiny, stainless steel mash tuns. Rather than wooden tuns and old pagoda chimneys, this is a fresh chapter in the island’s story.
For history and heritage, the tour guides adeptly explain how the site of the distillery accommodation, built in 1877, was once the Factor’s House, a prestigious role in Scottish estate life.
We were told how, historically, the island was home to the Macleod Clan, that during the Highland Clearances the islanders faced eviction and emigration, and at one point Raasay was a sporting estate for the Victorian elite. Today, sporting and outdoor activities are still top of the list for many Raasay visitors.
A key stop for outdoor pursuits is Raasay House. We undertook an afternoon of gentle Canadian Canoeing, but kayaking, sailing, archery, climbing, abseiling, bike hire and boat trips are also available.
Situated metres from the pier, Raasay House is a huge attraction on the island as it offers a range of accommodation, from dormitory to deluxe, as well as providing a quality cafe, bar and restaurant.
Raasay offers multiple photography opportunities and walking trails, taking in beauty, wildlife, and former townships that were cleared for sheep rearing and deer stalking.
The ruins of Brochel Castle, the original Macleod stronghold, are situated in the north of the island. And don’t miss Calum’s Road, the passionate project of one man who determinedly spent a decade constructing a road in an attempt to connect the township of Arnish with the rest of the island, and prevent its depopulation.
In the South is Dun Cana, the highest hill on Raasay, and the poignant remains of Hallaig, Raasay’s largest settlement before the
Clearances. A final way to see the island of Raasay is from the water. Board the Seaflower, a comfortable, speedy catamaran, and dine on Cullen skink and a platter of freshly-caught seafood.
It’s a truly indulgent way to sight-see and take in the views, castles and distillery.
Raasay offers an invigorating escape from the rat race, with more to see, do, eat and drink than ever before.
But whatever you plan, ensure there’s ample time to savour the views. This an island of quiet, tranquil beauty, so you wouldn’t wish to rush it.