You pull into the Ellenabeich car park, walk along the shoreline onto the slate built pier, duck into a small waiting shed, and press the ‘call button’ – not the most predictable way to catch a ferry to the western isles of Scotland, but that’s exactly how you do it if you’re heading to the little island of Easdale!
Tucked away on Argyll’s coast, Easdale Island is a tiny gem with a huge personality. Just a stone’s throw from the mainland (quite literally, if you’ve ever watched the world stone skimming championships!), this car-free island in the Inner Hebrides is rich in history, quirky finds, and raw beauty.
As locals here at Loch Melfort Hotel, we often see it overlooked in favour of the larger Western islands. However, we regularly recommend Easdale to guests looking to experience something a bit different. ‘Hidden gem’ is an overused term – especially when it comes to the Highlands of Scotland – but that’s exactly what it is, an island off the normal tourist trail, but full of soul. You’ll even get “two islands for the price of one” as you have to drive over the famous Clachan Bridge and over the Isle of Seil to get there.
Whether you’re a keen walker, history buff, or just want a peaceful place to take in some sea air, here’s everything we think you need to know about Easdale Island …
A lot of people ask, “Is Easdale Island worth visiting?”
It’s a resounding ‘Yes’ from us! Easdale Island is one of those places that quietly surprises first-time visitors. While it may be the smallest of the Inner Hebrides’ inhabited islands, it’s packed with character.
Formerly the heart of Scotland’s slate industry, Easdale’s sea-flooded quarries now form dramatic blue and turquoise pools, contrasting beautifully with the island’s much-loved whitewashed cottages and wild flora. Take a look below for a full list of things to see and do.
Can you drive to Easdale Island?
No, you can’t drive onto Easdale Island. For us (and most), that’s part of its charm. Easdale is completely car-free, which helps preserve its quiet, laid-back atmosphere. You’ll leave your car at the designated parking area in Ellenabeich, a small village on the Isle of Seil, just before boarding the foot ferry across.
In place of cars, you’re likely to spot the colourful line-up of wheelbarrows as you step off the little passenger boat. Easdale’s residents keep their wheelbarrows at the jetty, and they serve as a popular method for carrying shopping and other necessities home to their cottages. A charming island-life feature.
How to get to Easdale Island
From Loch Melfort Hotel, Easdale Island is about a 40-minute scenic drive. You’ll head north on the A816, turning off in Kilninver, before looping back down towards the Clachan Bridge (known as the Bridge Over the Atlantic.) This bridge connects the mainland to the Isle of Seil. The views south from the bridge are beautiful (and worth their own little stop on a quiet day.)
From the bridge, it’s just a short drive to Ellenabeich, winding past coastal homes and stunning coastal scenery. Once you’ve parked, the ferry to Easdale is just a short walk away. It’s one of the easiest islands to visit in the Inner Hebrides, with no long ferry queues or complicated bookings.
The Easdale ferry is quick (under 5 minutes) and runs on ‘demand’ throughout the day. It’s worth noting that ‘pick-up’ alerts made to the boatmen should still run within the designated timetable times (noted in the waiting shed at the pier). There’s no need to pre-book, just ring the bell at the jetty and they will come across to pick you up. One of our favourite (and the most unique) parts of this small-island experience.
Tickets are priced at £2.70 for and adult return, and £1.50 for a child.
*Prices referenced from 2025 Spring timetable and subject to change
A travel note to consider: Most island ferries take a mid-day lunch break. This normally happens between around 12-2pm. You can find up-to-date timetables and ticket prices for Easdale Island on the official Argyll & Bute council website.
Can you stay on Easdale Island?
There are a few self-catering cottages on the island, which offer a peaceful retreat – perfect if you’re looking to truly disconnect. That said, most visitors opt to stay nearby on the mainland for more dining and accommodation options. If you do choose to stay in Easdale, we recommend making a pre-planned grocery store visit to pick up any supplies you might need. There is a well stocked local store in Balvicar that you pass on the way to Ellenabeich.
The official Easdale Island website has a list of accommodation options, alongside general information, island projects, and videos highlights from the community.
What to do on Easdale Island
While the island is small, in our experience, there’s plenty to fill a half or full day (especially if the weather is dry):
Stone Skimming Championship
Did you know that there is an annual World Stone Skimming Championships? And did you know that Easdale Island hosts it every September, drawing competitors from all over the world? It’s a fun claim for a small island nestled away quietly on the west of Scotland! Even if you visit outside of the event, we recommend you try your hand at a few throws, the old slate quarries are perfect for it!
Wild Swimming
While we’re on the subject of slate quarries … these colourful sea pools on Easdale make for one of the most unique wild swimming experiences in Scotland! However, we recommend that you consult Wild About Argyll’s wild swimming safety guide and swim trail before taking a dip. They note that it’s extremely important to “enter the water steadily to acclimatise and never jump in without firstly acclimatising and thoroughly checking for depth and obstructions.” This couldn’t be more important when it comes to wild swimming in Easdale – due to their swimming-pool like appearance, it’s tempting to jump right into the old quarry basins.
For easier access, we recommend you head up and round to the larger quarry in the north of the island. Here, you’ll find a more obvious path down to the ‘shoreline’, and a little spot to leave your belongings while you take a dip.
The Puffer Bar and Restaurant
Keen foodies might already be familiar with The Puffer Bar & Restaurant, featured in the BBC series Designing the Hebrides. In 2022, the business was acquired by Rachel Devine and Jhennia Leipert, who left their London lives behind to embrace island living – and the show threw a spotlight on the challenges and rewards of running one of the ‘UK’s most remote pubs.’
Known today for its locally sourced seafood and hand-baked treats, ‘The Puffer’ has become a destination for both locals and tourists seeking a unique dining experience in Scotland.
Easdale Island Folk Museum
The charming Easdale Island Folk Museum, run (mostly) by local volunteers, is located in a restored quarriers’ cottage. Established in 1980 by then-island owner Chris Nicholson, it offers a rich tapestry of exhibits detailing the island’s slate industry, military history, education, public health, geology, and entertainment.
Visitors can explore genealogical records, rent books, and Masonic documents, providing a comprehensive insight into the island’s past. Often praised for its warm welcome and informative displays, the museum operates daily from April to October, 11am to 4pm, with a modest £4 entry fee supporting its upkeep.
Siabann Eisdeal
Beloved local soap supplier Siabann Eisdeal (gaelic for Easdale soap) known for their range of products including soaps, moisturising balms, shampoo bars, and more, is expanding with a brand-new store on the island set to open in Summer 2025. Catering especially to sensitive skin, all of their items are made using 100% natural ingredients.
Walking and wildlife watching
The circular walk around the island offers wonderful views over to Mull and the Garvellachs – if you have binoculars, you’ll want to bring them along for this! Seals and seabirds are a regular sight, while occasionally otters and dolphins can be spotted.
Photography and Art
With its dramatic seascapes and historic cottages, Easdale is a dream for photographers and artists alike. So much so, that when you first land on the island, you should come across a line of beautifully hand-painted stones – all for sale via a PayPal honesty box system (prices can be found on the back of each stone.)
Loch Melfort Hotel, an ideal base for exploring Easdale Island
Staying with us gives you the best of both worlds, relaxed sea-views in a peaceful Highland setting, and easy access to nearby gems like Easdale Island (and other Argyll attractions.) Our hotel sits right next to the NTS Arduaine Garden, offering inspiring dining views over Asknish Bay and the Inner Hebrides (so you can scope your next adventure from the mainland), and a satisfying base to return to after a day of island-hopping or adventure.
More things to do on the West Coast of Scotland?
Our team are always eager to share their favourite spots across Argyll and beyond. If you’re looking for more travel inspiration, you might also enjoy:
Visiting Dunollie Castle – History, Highlights, and Clan MacDougall
A Guide to the Achnabreck Rock Art in Argyll
A day trip from Oban to the Island of Kerrera