Visiting Abandoned North Rona Island, Scotland

North Rona Island, located around 40 miles north of the Isle of Lewis, is one of the two deserted islands in Scotland. The island is said to be inhabited by humans more than 150 years ago, and is now known to be the most distant British Isles to be inhabited. It is larger than the Sula Sgeir, the other isolated Scottish Isles sitting ten miles further than West of the North Rona.

Historians claimed that St. Ronan once lived on the island during the 8^th century. Remains of the St. Ronan's chapel and cross-shaped grave markers, which was erected as early as the 7th century could still be seen on the deserted North Rona Island. Visitors touring the island today can still witness collapsed historic buildings, a hut used by students for research and a lighthouse, Adventure Life reports.

North Rona Island is home to seabirds, including Leach's petrels, storm petrels and kittiwakes, and sheep. It is also recognized as the third-largest breeding colony of grey seals, where most can be found in the immersed seacaves down the coast. The natural reserve island is owned by the Scottish Natural Heritage composed of 80% sea inlets and marine areas with 20% dry grassland and salt marshes.

How To Get To North Rona Island?

Visitors staying on the island will be fetched from Portree on Skye through a chartered boat. During high season, Spindrift Boat Trips from Portree and MV Stardust Boat Trips have day trips once a week to the island. Visitors staying at Borodale House Hotel on Raasay could also get day trips to the island.

Places To Visit with North Rona Island

Visitors must not miss Rona's highest peak, Meall Acairseid, which is 125m high for breathtaking panoramic views. A church cave erected on the Eastern part of the island is also one of the tourist attractions of Rona, according to Love Scottish Islands.

Where To Stay at North Rona Island?

People planning to spend a vacation at North Rona Island could camp or stay on its three self-catering cottages, including Seascape and Skyescape and Escape Cottage. Bed and breakfast packages are also available on the island at Rona Lodge.

North Rona Island is one of Scotland's pride. Visiting a place such as Rona provides lots of discoveries and learning, as well as experience a visitor wouldn't find in any place. With rich history, Rona brings nostalgia from the past, where people lived 150 years ago.