See if you can unravel the mystery of the Flannan Isles located in the
Outer Hebrides of
Scotland. This island is steeped in history, but the famous story of the disappearance of three lighthouse keepers here in December 1900, leaving an untouched meal on the table has yet to be solved. There are two groups of islands that make up the Flannan Islands. The main eastern islands are Eilean Mor and Eilean Tighe. The islands to the west are Eilean o'Ghobha, Roaiream and Brona Cleit. The Flannan Islands have never had permanent inhabitants, but there were lighthouse keepers here from 1899 to 1971.
The Flannan Islands are also known as the Seven Hunters and are a paradise for birdwatchers in the summer months. When you visit Eilean Mor, you can see a small stone chapel dedicated to St. Flan and there are a series of bothies on the Western headland attributed to the Clan MacPhail. There are also the remains of what some believe to be a dwelling on the top of Eilean Tighe. During the summer, both of these islands display the beauty of nature in the many blooming wildflowers.
You can explore the rock stacks and natural arches between Roaiream and Eilean o'Ghobha, but this is only possible in an inflatable when the seas are absolutely calm. The natural erosion of the sea has formed many unusual shapes in the rocks and cliffs. You can land on Eilean Mor on either the western or eastern parts of the island and when the seas are calm it is possible to land on the other islands. The waters around the Flannan Islands are well known for their pilot and minke whales and frequent visits by dolphins.
There are many tours operating to the Flannan Islands, such as Island Odysseys. If you are really adventurous you can take a sea-kayaking trip to the islands from Canoe Hebrides. Northern Light Charters is another tour company that offers day trips to the islands, but this often depends on the wind and weather conditions.
All Flannan Isles photographs © Chris Jackson 2005 MV Chalice
