The Isle of Staffa is just one of many amazing small islands in Scotland’s Southern Hebrides
Scotland is well known for its history, its beauty and its natural features. From massive cliffs plummeting straight down to the ocean below to ancient wonders built by Scotland’s oldest inhabitants, there are literally thousands of sites of interest and objects by natural and man made to see and explore. Of these, one of the strangest and perhaps lesser known in terms of mainstream tourism is a destination located within the Southern Hebrides, a group of islands off the coast. While many head to Scotland for the music and the food, many others head to the Southern Hebrides to see some of natures wonders including one island called Staffa. Though one of the smallest in the group, Staffa more than makes up for its small size in terms of amazing sites of interest, the most well known of which is the basalt columns.
The island of Staffa or Isle of Staffa as it is locally known, is a magical little island. Accessible by shore excursion from the Isle of Mull and the Iona Pier, Staffa inspires awe and wonder from the moment it appears in the distance. An uninhabited island, Staff was once home to a small number of residents in the 1700’s however today, any residents have been replaced by nature and of course, the steady trickle of visitors coming to explore this unique destination. Like other islands of the Hebrides, Staffa is volcanic in nature and it is this geological makeup which created the columns and caves which have made it popular in recent years. Source of inspiration to composers such as Mendelssohn and even poets including William Wordsworth, it is truly a site to behold.
A number of cruise tours and wildlife boat trips provide visitors access to this and other nearby islands. One of the most well known and popular in the area are Gordon Grant tours at staffatours.com which depart from Fionnphort, Mull, Iona and Oban as well. These daily boat tours provide a variety of tour options ranging from wildlife cruises to general tours of Staff and truly exciting tours which journey into Fingal’s Cave, the islands most amazing and perhaps best known cave. An over 220 foot cavern created by nature, the structure here is much like the infamous Giant’s Causeway, another of Scotland’s most famous and unique natural features.
Whether you are going to enjoy the culture or in search of an adventure in the southern Hebrides, Scotland is rich in diversity and ideal for a variety of vacation experiences. Visit their website to learn more about what you would enjoy and start planning your next vacation.
Bill Bailey Travel reviews unique and exciting destinations for travel in the U.S. and beyond. Dedicated to helping you learn more about top destinations and tips to help you travel, Bill invites you to come back again and explore other unique and beautiful destinations for travel.
Connect With Me!