Sheep Island

Island in Argyllshire

Scotland

Sheep Island

Sanda Island Seen from the summit of The Bastard at the south-east of Kintyre.

On the left is Glunimore Island, and Sheep Island is in front of Sanda Island. In the distance are the hills of North Antrim.
Sanda Island Credit: Michael Earnshaw

Sheep Island, located in Argyllshire, Scotland, is a small and picturesque island situated in the Atlantic Ocean off the west coast of the Scottish mainland. With an area of approximately 20 acres, Sheep Island is known for its rugged coastline, stunning views, and diverse wildlife.

The island derives its name from the large population of wild sheep that roam freely on its hillsides. These sheep, known as Scottish Blackface, are well-adapted to the island's harsh climate and provide a charming and authentic Scottish countryside feel.

Sheep Island is a haven for nature enthusiasts and bird watchers. The island's cliffs and rocky shores are home to a variety of seabirds, including puffins, guillemots, and razorbills. Visitors can often spot these colorful birds nesting and fishing in the surrounding waters.

Access to Sheep Island is limited, as it is only reachable by boat. Visitors can hire local boat charters or take organized tours from nearby harbors, such as Oban or Tayvallich. Upon arrival, they can explore the island's walking trails, which offer panoramic views of the surrounding sea and mainland.

The island's vegetation mainly consists of heather, grasses, and wildflowers, adding a vibrant touch to its natural beauty. Additionally, the rocky outcrops and hidden coves provide secluded spots for picnics or peaceful moments to enjoy the tranquility of the island.

Sheep Island is a hidden gem, offering a unique and unspoiled experience for those seeking a peaceful retreat and a chance to immerse themselves in the spectacular Scottish wilderness.

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Sheep Island Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 55.291684/-5.5719855 or Grid Reference NR7305. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

Sanda Island Seen from the summit of The Bastard at the south-east of Kintyre.

On the left is Glunimore Island, and Sheep Island is in front of Sanda Island. In the distance are the hills of North Antrim.
Sanda Island
Seen from the summit of The Bastard at the south-east of Kintyre. On the left is Glunimore Island, and Sheep Island is in front of Sanda Island. In the distance are the hills of North Antrim.
Prince Edward's Rock and Sanda Lighthouse Viewed from the north. The alternative way to the lighthouse is by helicopter.
Prince Edward's Rock and Sanda Lighthouse
Viewed from the north. The alternative way to the lighthouse is by helicopter.
Sheep Island A small island off Sanda (background).
Sheep Island
A small island off Sanda (background).
Sanda Island Seen from Blackwaterfoot are Sanda island and the Mull of Kintyre.
Sanda Island
Seen from Blackwaterfoot are Sanda island and the Mull of Kintyre.
Sanda and Sheep Island Photographed from Dunaverty Rock
Sanda and Sheep Island
Photographed from Dunaverty Rock
Wetland, Sanda A damp area between two low hills.
Wetland, Sanda
A damp area between two low hills.
Lighthouse buildings, Sanda Redundant lighthouse buildings on a raised beach between the bulk of Sanda and a once offshore rock which hosts the lighthouse. The lighthouse is reached by a 200 step spiral staircase on the outside of the rock.
Lighthouse buildings, Sanda
Redundant lighthouse buildings on a raised beach between the bulk of Sanda and a once offshore rock which hosts the lighthouse. The lighthouse is reached by a 200 step spiral staircase on the outside of the rock.
Sanda and Sheep Island View from the western side of Sanda's hill towards to offlying Sheep Island.
Sanda and Sheep Island
View from the western side of Sanda's hill towards to offlying Sheep Island.
Sanda, the triangulation pillar The highest point on the island.
Sanda, the triangulation pillar
The highest point on the island.
Lighthouse road, Sanda A well surfaced road crosses Sanda from the pier (and pub) to the lighthouse.
Lighthouse road, Sanda
A well surfaced road crosses Sanda from the pier (and pub) to the lighthouse.
Blue sheep, Sanda A blue sheep greets visitors to the very welcoming island of Sanda. The azure backed wooly is gazing towards Glunimore Island, one of several rocks worth missing in the area.
Blue sheep, Sanda
A blue sheep greets visitors to the very welcoming island of Sanda. The azure backed wooly is gazing towards Glunimore Island, one of several rocks worth missing in the area.
Sanda Lighthouse and Elephant Rock The southernmost point of the island.
Sanda Lighthouse and Elephant Rock
The southernmost point of the island.
Trig Point Sanda Island Looking north at the trig point and onward view.
Trig Point Sanda Island
Looking north at the trig point and onward view.
Sheep Island Near Sanda Island Photo of Sheep Island from RIB on way from Campbeltown to Sanda Island.
Sheep Island Near Sanda Island
Photo of Sheep Island from RIB on way from Campbeltown to Sanda Island.
Sanda Island Slipway Looking from our RIB to our landing point on Sanda Island.
Sanda Island Slipway
Looking from our RIB to our landing point on Sanda Island.
Top Of Elephant Rock This is the top of Elephant Rock as seen from near the top of Sanda Island Lighthouse. The trunk of Elephant Rock forms a dramatic natural arch. We were so lucky to find the lighthouse open and to be allowed to explore inside and outside the tall lighthouse. Prince Edward Rock where the lighthouse is based is a recently discovered P30.
Top Of Elephant Rock
This is the top of Elephant Rock as seen from near the top of Sanda Island Lighthouse. The trunk of Elephant Rock forms a dramatic natural arch. We were so lucky to find the lighthouse open and to be allowed to explore inside and outside the tall lighthouse. Prince Edward Rock where the lighthouse is based is a recently discovered P30.
Helipad at Sanda Island Lighthouse A view west from high up on Sanda Island Lighthouse across the helipad.
Helipad at Sanda Island Lighthouse
A view west from high up on Sanda Island Lighthouse across the helipad.
Pier View And Sheep Island The Sanda Island Hotel and Restaurant has four lovely red outdoor seats where you can take in the view across to the pier, Sheep Island and the mainland.
Pier View And Sheep Island
The Sanda Island Hotel and Restaurant has four lovely red outdoor seats where you can take in the view across to the pier, Sheep Island and the mainland.
Show me another place!

Sheep Island is located at Grid Ref: NR7305 (Lat: 55.291684, Lng: -5.5719855)

Unitary Authority: Argyll and Bute

Police Authority: Argyll and West Dunbartonshire

What 3 Words

///rivers.reframe.spans. Near Campbeltown, Argyll & Bute

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