Private Scottish Island with Houses, Pub, and Flock of Sheep is Up for Sale

In a unique real estate opportunity, a picturesque private island off the west coast of Scotland is now on the market. Sanda Island, spanning 453 acres, boasts sandy beaches, abundant wildlife, seven houses, a pub, and even a helipad. Located between Scotland and Northern Ireland, this idyllic island offers a serene and captivating getaway.

Access to Sanda Island can be obtained by boat, with stone slipways available at both ends, or by helicopter. The island is adorned with rolling greenery, bordered by rock escarpments, and features seven residential properties. Four houses are situated at the northern end, while three are located at the southern end, adjacent to a stunning lighthouse perched on an outcrop.

Accommodating up to 26 people, the island offers plenty of space for retreat and relaxation. The Byron Darnton Tavern, named after a shipwreck that occurred in 1946, can serve as a gathering place for residents and visitors alike. Established in 2003 by former owners Dick and Meg Gannon, the pub attracted media attention and welcomed patrons arriving by boat during the summer months. The tavern, which still holds an alcohol license, presents a potential opportunity for the next owner to revive it, offering unique stays and high-end accommodation to visitors sailing along the West Coast.

Sanda Island also boasts a registered farm code, as it previously operated as a small farm. A flock of 55 black-faced sheep still inhabits the island and is included as part of the sale. These self-sufficient sheep serve as a natural lawnmower, requiring minimal management and adding to the charm of the island.

Aside from the livestock, Sanda Island is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts. Bird-watchers can revel in the presence of colonies of puffins, kittiwakes, cormorants, shags, razorbills, and many other feathered residents.

The island's unique characteristics extend beyond its natural beauty. Locally known in Argyll and Bute as "Spoon Island" due to its spoon-like shape when viewed from above, Sanda Island is also one of the few Scottish islands that prints its own stamps. On clear days, the island's highest point offers breathtaking views of Northern Ireland's Antrim Hills, visible across the North Channel, approximately 20 miles away.

Access to the island can be conveniently arranged from Campbelltown in Scotland, which holds a large marina, several whisky distilleries, and Scotland's oldest cinema.

Knight Frank, the agency handling the sale, has set the asking price in excess of £2.5 million ($3.1 million). Additionally, the sale includes two additional islands, namely Sheep Island spanning 31.72 acres and Glunimore Island measuring 4.41 acres.

Most of the accommodation on Sanda Island has recently undergone refurbishment, including the addition of new double glazing. Energy is currently generated on the island by three generators, but there is potential for the new owners to explore renewable energy sources to enhance electricity production.

Tom Stewart-Moore, head of rural agency for Scotland at Knight Frank, has reported receiving a significant number of viewing requests for the unique property. He anticipates that potential buyers will fall into two categories: wealthy individuals looking for a private retreat or those seeking to commercialize the pub and buildings, expand the farming operation, and achieve self-sufficiency.

For those yearning for a private island escape this year, Sanda Island presents an enticing opportunity. With its stunning natural surroundings, comfortable accommodations, and potential for commercialization, this Scottish gem awaits its new owners.