The Shiant Isles (pronounced Shant) are situated in the North Minch between the north tip of Skye and the Outer Hebridean Isle of Lewis. The two main islands are Eilean Garbh and Eilean an Tighe (also known as Rough Island and House Island). These islands are connected by a narrow isthmus and up until 1901, there were people living here. Another island in this group is Eilean Mhuire (Mary Island). The owner of these islands, Adam Nicolson, has written a book entitled Sea Room in which he attempts to tell as much as possible about the archaeology and history of the islands.
The archaeological sites on the Shiant Isles provide evidence that these islands were inhabited in prehistoric times. Even the most rugged island, Eilean Mhuire, which has many granite cliffs, has standing stones and a cairn as well as signs of settlement. There is evidence of Blackhouse, sheep pens and tracks on House Island. Mary Island has monuments that include the site of St. Mary's Chapel and a turf walled hut. The Shiant pillow stone found during the excavation of a Blackhouse on Rough Island is thought to date back to the 10
th century.
A visit to the Shiant Isles is a necessity if you are interested in bird watching. These islands are the nesting grounds for numerous seabirds, such as puffins, kittiwakes, razorbills, shags, gulls, and great skuas. Another form of wildlife that still survives on these islands is the Black Rats of the Bubonic Plague era.
If you are looking for the ultimate thrill while on vacation take a cruise to the Shiant Isles and enjoy a trip ashore. Climb the steep grassy slopes to the top of one of the islands and enjoy the commanding view of the sea. Gaze in fascination as the seabirds cry and swirl around you. You can enjoy some spectacular fishing one your way out or back from the islands and see the seals frolicking in the waters close to shore.
You are quite welcome to stay on the Shiant Isles, but you do have to contact the
owner to make reservations. The best time to come for a visit is during the summer because the weather is better. However, the shepherds who tend the sheep during the lambing season occupy the house in September. There is no charge for staying on the island and no scheduled services to the Shiants, which can only only be reached by boat. Weather permitting, you may be able to arrange a day-boat to take you there from Stornoway or Leverburgh. Small cruise ship
MV Chalice often visits the Shiants when sailing to St Kilda or the Outer Isles.
Local Legends of the Shiant Isles
One of the tales of ancient folklore that you can learn about the Shiant Isles is the existence of the Blue Men of the Minch. These creatures were believed to inhabit the stretch of water between the Shiants and the other islands. They were similar to mermaids and swam with the dolphins and tried to lure sailors into the sea. The locals believed that they lived in underground caves and the only way to escape them was to beat them in a rhyme. Some suggested they were fallen angels, while others believed them to be Moorish slaves marooned in Ireland.
The Shiant Isles will make your exploration of Scotland complete as you stay in a part of the country, which is steeped in history.
All Shiant Isles photographs © Chris Jackson 2005 MV Chalice
