Little electricity or hot water. Population: 20. Scenery and seclusion on linked islands
Off the west coast of Mull lie Ulva and Gometra, two neighbouring islands connected by a bridge. Ulva, the larger of the two islands, is 7.5 miles by 2.5 miles wide and is reached by a short ferry ride from Mull.
With a population of about 20 people combined, these islands make for a great place to visit if you’re looking for a bit of scenic peace and quiet.
The islands were, however, once home to about 600 people and in 2018 Ulva was bought by the community, which is working towards increasing the population.
An agricultural isle, Gometra was previously used by the monks of Iona as their granary, and it is still home to many animals – including sheep, horses and cattle. Gometra is the perfect place for an off-grid experience, offering no electricity or reliable hot water. The island intends to become carbon-neutral by 2025.
Ulva, meanwhile, has plenty to see with restored blackhouses and standing stones, as well as the eerie Livingston’s Cave and a stunning coastline.
And Ulva’s highest summit Beinn Chreagach, reaching 1,027ft, is a must for hillwalkers. Ulva and Gometra might be wee, but there’s nowhere better to switch off and take a trip back in time.