A stunning but wildly remote UK island, which hasn’t been permanently inhabited since the 1960s, is so exclusive even the Beckhams have visited – but getting there isn’t easy
A remote island that was abandoned decades ago has seemingly rebranded itself as a tourist magnet for A-listers.
Stranded just off the east coast of Scotland, and a mere stone’s throw from the island of Jura, lies the idyllic isle of Scarba. Here, you’ll find an abundance of wildlife, including golden eagles and otters, sugar-like beaches, crystal clear waters, and a restorative sense of peace and quiet you never knew existed.
Offering uninterrupted views of the Hebrides, and enveloped in spooky myths, this island is set between the famous Corryvreckan whirlpool – which almost killed acclaimed writer George Orwell – and the notorious Grey Dogs tidal race. But the island is missing just one thing: people.
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In fact, Scarba hasn’t been permanently inhabited since the 1960s. Harsh living conditions and economic hardship meant many residents flocked to the mainland or abroad in search for a better life, significantly declining the island’s population until nobody was left. It is now privately owned by Lord Richard Sandys and features just one primary residence: Kilmory Lodge.
Only accessible via private charter boat, seaplane or helicopter, this five-double-bedroom house has been modernly updated to resemble a ‘cosy traditional lodge’ with log burning stoves and modern interior. The lodge, together with a bothy in the south, are the only permanent buildings on the island.
“The lodge is let on a fully catered basis for parties of up to 8/10 guests. The chef will prepare a cooked breakfast each morning before the day’s activities, including packed lunches or you might have a barbecue on the beach instead, and back to the lodge for a three-course dinner,” property experts over at George Goldsmith explain. “The Kilmory chef works with only the freshest, local ingredients, including langoustine which is dropped off on the pier and are all part of the Scarba experience.”
Kilmory Lodge and its hard-to-reach location are both what makes the island so exclusive, opening up its appeal to celebrities wanting to get away from the paparazzi.
Earlier this year, Scarba was propelled under the tourist spotlight after football legend David Beckham celebrated his 50th birthday here with his sons. The family is believed to have spent a night at the bothy during a boy’s fishing trip, before tucking into ‘fresh scallops, blue lobster and crabs’ for dinner.
On social media, David documented their time in the no-thrills bothy, joking his children were ‘smiling on the inside’ after sharing a picture of them huddled around the log fire. “Doesn’t get any fresher than this,” he captioned an Instagram story as he cooked seafood on an outdoor BBQ.
It is not public knowledge how much Kilmory Lodge costs per night, but with its exclusive offerings and unique set up – it’s safe to say it won’t be cheap. You can enquire about visiting the property here.
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