Kerrera

Kerrera is an island in the Scottish Inner Hebrides, close to the town of Oban. In 2016 it had a population of 45 divided into two communities in the North and South of the island. The island is linked to the mainland by a Caledonian MacBrayne passenger ferry from the Gallanach Road from where tracks lead to the scattered settlements in the centre and south of the island. The northern tip of the island, centred round a boat yard, is served by two smaller ferries which berth at a bay near Ardentrive Farm, and is linked by a rough track to the rest of the island. The island is around 7 km long and around 2 km wide, and is separated from the mainland by the Sound of Kerrera, about 500 metres wide.The island is known for the ruined Gylen Castle, a small tower house built in 1582. It was also the place where Alexander II of Scotland died in 1249. The highest point on Kerrera is Carn Breugach at 189m. Most of the island is owned by the McDougalls of Dunollie, who are descended from the Scottish prince Somerled. The 4acre tidal island at the north-east tip of Kerrera, Rubh a' Chruidh, was sold for £426,000 in 2010 to Lanarkshire businessman David Hamilton. who built an American beach style three bedroom house and a helipad on the island. The artist J. M. W. Turner visited Kerrera in 1831 and made 25 sketches of the castle which are in the Tate Gallery, London.