About Islandeering
Hi and welcome to Islandeering Islandeering is for people who want adventure in Britain’s wild blue spaces – our rivers, coast, lakes, canals and islands. You will find amazing walks, paddles and swims in the UK’s most special places, those recognised for outstanding natural beauty, incredible geology or special and abundant wildlife.
More About UsWe continuously find new islands, rivers, lochs, canals and coast to walk, SUP and swim in and meet plenty of great folks along the way. Join our community to get new routes and adventures, latest blogs and news by using the email box below. Tune in also to our Facebook and Instagram pages to see where we are going next.
Table of Contents
About Summer Isles
Paddleboarding in Summer Isles
Islands of Summer Isles
Summer Isles Guide
The Summer Isles form a small but striking island group off the northwest coast of Scotland, near Ullapool and the mouth of Loch Broom. Set where sheltered sea lochs meet the open Minch, these islands combine rich maritime history, important wildlife habitats and a strong sense of remoteness, despite their proximity to the mainland.
From low-level coastal walking and sheltered paddling routes to wildlife watching and quiet anchorages, the Summer Isles offer classic west coast island experiences on a compact scale.
This guide provides an overview of the Summer Isles.
The Summer Isles Group
Clustered at the entrance to Loch Broom, the Summer Isles include a mix of inhabited, uninhabited and tidal islands. They have long histories of fishing, trade and navigation, and today are valued for their wildlife, landscapes and peaceful character.
Expect: low-lying islands, rocky shores, sheltered waters, seabirds, views to Assynt and Coigach.
Tanera Mòr
The largest and only permanently inhabited island in the group, Tanera Mòr is known for its small community, harbour, walking routes and surrounding skerries.
→ Explore Tanera Mòr
Isle Ristol
A low-lying island in the Summer Isles, visible from the mainland and known for its rocky shoreline, maritime history and wildlife-rich waters.
→ Explore Isle of Ristol
Priest Island
A small island with religious history, grassy slopes and quiet shoreline walking, lying just east of Tanera Mòr.
→ Explore Priest Island
Horse Island
A low, rocky island with a long maritime history, visible from the mainland and popular for wildlife watching and boat-based visits.
→ Explore Horse Island
Eilean Fada Mòr & surrounding isles
A scatter of smaller islands and skerries forming part of the wider Summer Isles group, important for seabirds and marine life.
→ Explore the Summer Isles
Nature, Culture & Island Identity
Wildlife
The Summer Isles support seabirds, seals and rich intertidal life, with surrounding waters used by dolphins and other marine mammals.
Maritime History
Historically important for fishing, herring fleets and navigation, the islands reflect centuries of human interaction with the Minch and northwest coast.
Island Landscape
Low relief, rocky shorelines and expansive sea views define the Summer Isles, with dramatic mainland mountains forming a constant backdrop.
Island Adventures
Walking
Gentle coastal circuits and informal paths, particularly on Tanera Mòr and Priest Island.
Paddleboarding & Kayaking
Sheltered waters between islands provide excellent conditions for experienced paddlers in suitable weather.
Wildlife Watching
Seabirds, seals and occasional dolphins can be seen from shore or small boats.
Plan Your Visit
Best Seasons
Late spring to early autumn offers calmer seas, wildlife interest and longer daylight.
Getting There
Boat access is required to reach the islands, except Isle of Pistol which is tidal, with services and charters operating from the Ullapool area.
Paddleboarding in Summer Isles
We have shared some of our favourite routes in our Top paddles on Scottish Island blog but more can be found on our Route Map page
Islands of Summer Isles
Read more about the islands in our Islandeering book
Tanera Mòr
Isle Ristol
Priest Island
Horse Island
Eilean Fada Mòr & surrounding isles
Islands of Summer Isles
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Where to go Paddleboarding in Summer Isles
We have shared some of our favourite routes below but more can be found on our Route Map page
Top paddles on Scotland’s Islands
Scotland is one of the best places in the world for paddling with spectacular coastlines, [...]
Jan
Luing walking route
The walk is peaceful and remote, free range along the foreshore for most of the [...]
Feb
