-- Where is it ? --

Handa lies off the northwest coast of Sutherland and is separated from the tiny settlement of Tarbert by the Sound of Handa. The island covers an area of just over 300 hectares and the highest point of 123m is found on Sithean Mor.

-- History --

This small island was once inhabited by 65 people spread over 12 houses. Sadly this all came to an end in 1846 when potato crop failure lead to widespread famine and suffering. They islanders lived mainly on fish, potatoes and seabirds. Like St Kilda the residents of this island used to appoint their own parliament and the oldest widow in the community was made their Queen. Since the islanders left Handa has become a haven for bird-life; puffins, razorbills, kittiwakes and guillemots all breed here. It provides a strategic nesting locality for seabirds that feed in the productive waters of the northern Minch, outside the SPA.

One very interesting and unusal fact about Handa was that it was seen as an important burial ground where the bones of dead mainlanders could be laid to rest safe from the wolves that marauded Scotland in those days. Today there is one marked grave on the island.

These days the island is owned by Dr. Jean Balfour and managed for its wildlife by the Scottish Wildlife Trust (SWT). On landing on the island a SWT warden will point you in the direction of the footpath which encircles the island. The complete trail is 6 km and takes at least 2 hours, it is best to allow 3 to 4 hours or more to fully appreciate the sights and sounds of Handa. The terrain is rough, the cliffs are steep and the weather can change quickly....so come prepared !!

-- Books --

None available to my knowledge with any significant content on Handa....please contact lonely-isles if you know of any and we'll add them to the site.

-- DVD's & Videos --

None available to my knowledge....please contact lonely-isles if you know of any and we'll add them to the site !!

-- Links --

Handa Island - Excellent page featuring several small photo's and a detailed history of Handa Island. Part of a bigger site which looks at the North West corner of Scotland.

Dan Heller Images - Small collection of Handa photo's available to view or buy.

Undiscovered Scotland - Page from the always excellent Undiscovered Scotland on the area of the Scottish mainland closest to Handa. This page is an essential read if you're planning a trip to Handa via the ferry at Tarbert.

Unique Cottages - Useful collection of local information on the area around Tarbert and Scourie.