Isle of Raasay

All roads lead to Calum’s Road

Arguably, the most notable and most inspiring person to come from the Isle of Raasay is Calum Macleod of Arnish. Calum, born in 1911, spent his entire life in Arnish, a small village located at the northernmost end of Raasay. The tale of his life is captivating, but what really threw him into the spotlight was the fact that he built his own road. Traditionally, the road ended at Brochel Castle, 1.86 miles (3km) away from Arnish. His requests for the road to be extended were repeatedly turned down, so he took matters into his own hands and began building the road himself. The road took 10 years to build and was completed by hand, using a pick, shovel, and wheelbarrow. The work was arduous and slow going, which is not surprising given the nature of the land he was working in. One must remember that this is the north of Raasay, the area deemed unfit for sheep during the clearances of the late 1800s/early 1900s. It is a rocky, undulating place sitting right above the sea.

For the full story of Calum’s plight, I thoroughly recommend reading ‘Calum’s Road’ by Roger Hutchinson. In addition to providing readers with an account of Calum’s life and an insight into the construction of his road, it also offers a history of not just the island but also the lives of everyone in the community.

Today, Calum’s Road would be better described as a track, but you can indeed drive (certain vehicles that is) along it to Calum’s old house. You can always leave the car at Brochel Castle and follow the road on foot or by mountain bike. You’ll know you’re on it as there is a road sign announcing it, as well as a commemorative cairn and some pieces of Calum’s equipment sitting rusting by the roadside. Continue onto the footpath, and you can traverse across the steep, rocky hillside before descending to the shore, where, at low tide, you can cross over to the Island of Fladda to explore.

Exploring Raasay on foot

There are plenty of walks to choose from on the island and most, if not all will have some form of historical link. You can visit the deserted clearance villages of Screapadal and Hallaig or check out the ruins of Brochel Castle, built in the late 15th/early 16th century by Raasay’s very first Clan Chief, who also happens to be called Calum Macleod.

Cave kayaking

If you fancy heading out on the water, why not check out Raasay House Outdoor Centre, part of the Raasay House Hotel. Based in the 15th century mansion house, they offer a variety of outdoor activities, including kayaking and boat trips. On the water is a perfect way to spot wildlife, of which there is plenty, including otters and sea eagles. The beautiful mansion house has its own story to tell and is definitely worth visiting, even if you’re not staying there or taking part in their adventurous offerings.

Raasay Ironstone Mine

Inverarish is the capital of Raasay and not far from both the ferry terminal and Raasay House. The quaint village is home to a small village shop and post office, gallery and of course the Isle of Raasay Distillery. Tours and tastings are available, and you can pre-book online via their website. For those not so keen on the Whisky, they also make their own gin.