Remote Scottish island with Caribbean-like beach has cottages to rent
While Scotland might not be the first destination that springs to mind when considering alternatives to the Caribbean, the silvery sands of Shoe Bay bear a striking resemblance to Barbados beaches, even if the weather does not quite compare. This stunning beach sits on the private island of Eilean Shona, where holidaymakers can rent a selection of vibrant cottages.
The secluded island can only be reached by boat following a three-hour drive through the Highlands from Glasgow or after an hour's journey from Fort William, having arrived by sleeper train. Once at Dorlin Pier, the island's RIB collects guests for the five-minute crossing. A quad and trailer carries guests' luggage and supplies to and from the cottage upon arrival and departure.
The picturesque island, which served as the inspiration for J.M. Barrie's Neverland, is owned by Vanessa Branson, the sister of entrepreneur Richard Branson. Vanessa and her former husband Robert Devereux acquired the island in 1995, and it now operates as an exclusive holiday destination.
Cottage and house guests fill their days building campfires, cooking fresh mussels, crabbing, painting, picnicking, or exploring the island's numerous coastal and woodland trails. Those seeking a more energetic break can indulge in wild swimming, sea kayaking, or paddle boarding, all of which Eilean Shona's shoreline is perfect for.
All the cottages are a short stroll from Shoe Bay, where visitors can spot seals, sea eagles, sea otters, red squirrels, and pine martens. Alongside the cottages sits the island's former village hall, which now acts as the social heart of the island, boasting wi-fi, phone signal, a table tennis table, reference books, and board games, while hosting a weekly pub night.