Eigg facts for kids
Eigg is a small, beautiful island located off the coast of Scotland. It's part of a group of islands called the Small Isles. Eigg is about 9 kilometers (around 5.6 miles) wide, and it's home to a small community of about 83 people. The island's highest point is its only mountain, called An Sgùrr, which stands tall and proud.
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Exploring Eigg's Landscape
Eigg has a very interesting and varied landscape, from its rocky coasts to its green hills.
The Dramatic An Sgùrr
An Sgùrr is the most famous landmark on Eigg. It's a unique mountain with a very steep, rocky side and a gentler slope on the other. Hikers love to climb An Sgùrr for amazing views of the island and the sea. From the top, you can see other islands and even the mainland of Scotland. The path leading to it offers stunning views of the island's different areas, like the slope down to Galmisdale.
Beautiful Beaches and Bays
Eigg is surrounded by lovely coastlines, including sandy beaches and gravel shores. The north-eastern coast has interesting gravel beaches, perfect for exploring. Another beautiful spot is Laig Bay, known for its stunning views and unique rock formations. The coast near Laig Bay is a great place to walk and enjoy the sea air.
Hidden Caves and Lochs
The island also has some fascinating natural features, like hidden caves and freshwater lochs. Uamh Fhraing, sometimes called the Massacre Cave, is a well-known cave with a dramatic history. There are also peaceful lochs, like Loch nam Ban Mora, which are calm spots for wildlife.
Life and History on Eigg
Eigg has a rich history, from ancient times to its modern-day community.
Ancient History and Finds
People have lived on Eigg for thousands of years. Archeologists have found many ancient artifacts, showing that Vikings and other early settlers once called the island home. A Viking sword hilt, found in a burial mound called a tumulus at Dail Sithean, tells us about the island's past connections to Norse warriors.
Historical Buildings and Sites
Eigg has several historical sites, including old chapels and mills. The ruined chapel of Kildonnan is a reminder of early Christian times on the island. Nearby, you can find the remains of a Celtic Cross and an old graveyard with carved stones, like a human depiction. The Kildonan Mill is another historic building, showing how people used to process grain on the island.
Community and Modern Life
Today, Eigg is famous for being owned by its community. In 1997, the people of Eigg bought the island, which was a huge step for them. This event is celebrated with a special modernist sculpture near the harbor. The island also uses renewable energy, with wind turbines helping to power homes and businesses. You might even spot cows grazing peacefully on the beaches!
Views from and to Eigg
From Eigg, you can enjoy amazing views of the Scottish mainland and the surrounding sea. The view from MV Sheerwater, a boat traveling from Arisaig, gives a great perspective of the island's coast. Looking back at Eigg from the sea, especially towards places like Cleadale from the northern end, shows just how beautiful and rugged the island is.
Images for kids
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An 1892 map of Eigg. -
Loch nam Ban Mora
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An Sgurr from a sea kayak perspective - geograph.org.uk - 125587.jpg
The coast at Kildonnan
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The Bay of Laig. The square cairns are sited on the far coast, in the centre
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The carved human depiction
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The entrance to Cathedral Cave, with An Sgùrr
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The Mill
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The Cruise of the Betsey (1858)
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The remains of Lower Grulin
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Sandavore kirk
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Cleadale from the northern end of the island
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The view from MV Sheerwater en route from Arisaig
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Two of Eigg's wind turbines
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Cow on the beach
See also
In Spanish: Eigg para niños
