Eco-Tourism Potential: Buy a Private Island in Scotlands Inner Hebrides for $7.5 Million

A private island off the west coast of Scotland has hit the real estate market for $7.5 million, offering 1,110 acres of land with ancient burial mounds, native woodlands, and a crumbling Edwardian-era castle. Shuna Island, located in the Inner Hebrides, is on the market for the first time in 80 years and has a history spanning back 9,000 years to when it was first settled.

The island's archaeological sites include Stone Age burial mounds and Iron Age ritual hoards, and three rare swords dating to the 8th century B.C. were discovered in 1875. Once part of the Gaelic kingdom of Dal Riata, Shuna was later given as a gift by Robert the Bruce to Clan Campbell in 1321. In the 18th century, it was a hub for lime production. In 1910, Shuna was purchased at auction by George Buckley, a New Zealand farmer, soldier, and adventurer who believed the island was part of his ancestry. Buckley paid for the construction of the castle, which is now in need of repairs due to its design not being suitable for Scotland's climate.

Shuna later became the longtime home of Viscountess Selby and her son, Edward Gully, who farmed and managed the island for more than 80 years. The island contains eight residential properties, including a 12-bedroom house, a secluded cottage on the north shore, and a timber-frame cottage with beach access. A boathouse, farmhouse, and several traditional stone houses round out the estate, which also includes slipways and a helipad. There are no roads on the island, but each cottage comes with a boat. While the listing does say there is mobile service on the island, there is little to no cell service, so the buyer will need to finance their own infrastructure or enjoy a good time off the grid.

The island is located near the Isle of Luing, about 20 miles south of Oban, with access via Craobh Haven Marina or Arduaine Pier. The nearest transport hub is Oban, which connects by ferry to several Hebridean islands and has a hospital, train station, and other services. Glasgow International Airport is 55 miles away by helicopter, and Islay Airport is 45 miles away.

Jim Gully, grandson of Viscountess Selby, told Bloomberg that he hopes a family or someone with fresh ideas will come in with investment plans for an eco-tourism resort on the island. The London-based real estate agency Knight Frank is managing the listing.

In summary, Shuna Island offers a unique opportunity for anyone looking to get away from it all with its rich history, stunning natural beauty, and potential for eco-tourism development. With its ancient burial mounds, native woodlands, and crumbling castle, this private paradise is sure to be a dream destination for those seeking a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.