Eigg War Memorial

Explorer Tom Eigg has a cliff-backed shape that makes it easy to recognise from the boat, but the island's best story is not only in the skyline. Its people own the place together, run a renewable electricity system and welcome visitors to beaches, wildlife and the great dark hump of An Sgurr. Tom claims he came to inspect the power supply; he stayed because the view refused to let him leave. The community buyout turned Eigg into an example of island self-determination. Its mix of wind, water and solar power is part of daily life, not a display built solely for tourists. There is older history too, and paths lead from Galmisdale towards crofting ground, shore and the climb up An Sgurr. White sand at Laig and views towards Rùm and the mainland give the island more than one mood. Birds and marine mammals may appear, but the residents have not arranged a timetable for wildlife either. Ferries from Mallaig and seasonal boats reach Galmisdale. Most visitors arrive without a car; bringing one is restricted to residents, contractors and Blue Badge holders with permission. Check sailings, weather and the local facilities before you leave the mainland. The island has places to eat, shop and stay, but small-island supplies are not a substitute for a little planning. An Sgurr is a real hill outing, so match the walk to your time and conditions. Take a day if you can. Eigg is too interesting to reduce to a photograph from the pier, and the people who keep it running deserve more attention than Tom's next joke about the island's name.