Fàilte Gu Eilean Ratharsair
Welcome to the Isle of Raasay
AN ISLAND IN THE INNER HEBRIDES
Just a 25-minute ferry ride from the Isle of Skye, Raasay (Ratharsair in Gaelic) means Isle of the Roe Deer. Despite its modest size, it is one of the most geologically diverse landmasses in the world.
From rolling hills to native forests and secluded beaches, explore any part of the island and the backdrops you will enjoy include the breathtaking panoramas of the Cuillin to the west and Torridon to the east.
TRAVELLING TO RAASAY
Cross land and sea on an awe inspiring journey through dramatic Highland scenery
The island of Raasay lies in the Highlands, between the Isle of Skye and the mainland of Scotland. It is separated from Skye by the Sound of Raasay and from Applecross by the Inner Sound.
OUTSTANDING VIEWS & AN EASY FERRY CROSSING
Raasay is one of the most easily accessible islands in Scotland, with a regular ferry service that runs throughout the year, seven days a week. Travelling to Raasay requires catching the ferry from Sconser on Skye, which is located on the main road to Portree and the north of Skye. You don’t even have to book!
SHOPPING
Raasay’s community-owned shop, which you can find in Inverarish, stocks an ever-growing selection of local food and drink as well as all the essentials for your visit, plus a variety of Raasay books and gifts. The distillery has its own shop and visitor centre where you can buy its whisky, gin and related gifts. Locally produced arts and crafts are available at Taigh nan Cearcan and the Raasay Gallery.
DISTILLERY
Raasay’s first ever legal distillery is at the heart of the community, handcrafting both single malt whisky and gin. Discover the story behind the distillery’s success while enjoying a guided tour followed by a tasting. Or why not book a stay in one of the six ensuite bedrooms? It’s the only distillery in Scotland where you can stay overnight in the same building as a working distillery!
WILDLIFE
The variety of habitats on and around Raasay is reflected in the diversity of the wildlife and plants to be found. Depending on the time of year (and the weather!), you may well see white-tailed sea and golden eagles, oystercatchers and guillemots, dolphins, otters and seals, red deer, bluebells, flowering gorse, native ferns and rare orchids, birch, hazel, alder and many fir and pine trees. e.
EXPLORING RAASAY
Cross land and sea on an awe inspiring journey through dramatic Highland scenery
STAY ON RAASAY
Experience Highland Hospitality
HOTELS
The island has two unique hotels, both with stunning views across the water to Skye. Raasay House Hotel has 20 bedrooms which range from economy to deluxe as well as its renowned outdoor activity centre. Or stay at the Isle of Raasay Distillery, possibly the only working distillery with luxury accommodation in the same building!
BED & BREAKFAST
Enjoy luxury bed and breakfast accommodation at the centrally located B&B on the island, just outside of the main village of Inverarish. Allt Arais has three luxury ensuite rooms.
SELF CATERING
There are a number of self-catering properties on Raasay of varying sizes, including a traditional cottage (sleeps three) in Inverarish, a three-bedroom former croft house towards the northern end of the island, Suisnish House which sleeps 15, and more. Dogs are also welcome at some of the properties.
THE WALLED GARDEN
Located behind the community-owned Raasay House, our community garden has been lovingly brought back to life.
There has been a garden in this area since the 16 th century and it was well-stocked by the time Boswell and Johnson visited in 1773. An 1877 Ordnance Survey map shows the greenhouses in place and a layout very similar to that of today. However, from the 1980s the garden became overgrown and the greenhouses derelict. Fast forward to today and it is now a productive community garden thanks to the successful Raasay Roots, Shoots and Fruits project in 2017-18 and fundraising and much hard work since by a dedicated team of staff and volunteers who continue to develop and improve the garden every year.
Harvested produce (during the growing season) is available at the veg shack outside the garden on a first come, first served basis (some produce can be pre-ordered).
The garden is open daily to visitors and there are picnic tables in the new orchard.
RAASAY COMMUNITY HALL
Community-owned and run
The island’s community hall was opened in 2010 and is a space for our many different community groups and organisations. The hall is used for sports and concerts, craft fairs and weddings, coffee mornings, parties, celebrations and much, much more.
The hall is enjoyed by both residents and visitors alike all year round and has it’s own Facebook page (click ‘Find out more’ below) where information is posted about what is happening.
For details about how to book the hall for your meeting or event, contact Raasay Community Association on raasaycommunityassociation@gmail.com.
EXPLORE RAASAY
Take a meditative walk and learn about the history and stories of the island or challenge yourself with Running Raasay
RUNNING RAASAY
Raasay is a haven for running, hiking and exploring off the beaten path. Join Patricia on one of her unique routes on, across and around the island. Whether running or walking, go beyond the paths and explore some of Raasay’s more remote and spectacular locations.
Or, if you want your own bespoke adventure, Patricia will create something to suit, covering things like any specific points of interest, time available and your experience.
MEDITATIVE WALKS
On this three-hour walk in the beauty, peace and silence of Raasay, visiting some of the island’s magical places and historical sites, Jen Burnet will share her wealth of knowledge about the island. Walks start at the ferry terminal on Raasay at 10 am and, although free of charge, booking is essential.
Contact Jen Burnet on 07833 140247 to book your walk (please bring your own refreshments).