Scalasaig on the Isle of Colonsay

On the beautiful Island of Colonsay lies a village by the name of Scalasaig. Colonsay is about twenty square miles in size and is home to only about 122 people. Scalasaig is the principal village on the island and in fact the island is so small that you can never travel more than five miles from the village of Scalsaig without wandering out into the frigid ocean. The area enjoys a wonderfully mild climate that is perfect for enjoying long walks and bicycle rides amongst the rolling hills and coastal areas. Scalasaig in Scotland also enjoys a wonderful array of birdlife. An example of this are the resident golden eagles.

Upon arriving you will discover that there is an array of attractions and historic monuments in the area. One particularly significant one is the stone circle in Colonsay. Unfortunately these ruins have not been sufficiently investigated to provide visitors with accurate dates and other information. Instead you will have to rely on guesses and assumptions – some of which are rather vague. Another ruin that has not been properly researched is that of the kerb-cairn at Scalasaig. It is estimated that this unusual cairn was created during the Bronze Age, but it is quite possible that it may have been erected a little after this period. Whatever the case, the cairn is quite interesting to look at and makes for a great attraction. The reason so many of these historical ruins and attractions have not been accurately dated is that there is a severe lack of supporting evidence around the sites. Normally items from graves and other remnants will substantiate any theories – but this has not been the case on Colonsay. In addition to this, many of the artifacts that were initially discovered have long since been lost.

Colonsay falls under the cluster of islands known as the Inner Hebrides and so, like most other islands in the area, it is surrounded by chaotic and restless waters. Nevertheless, these waters are regularly braved experienced sailors who make their livelihood from fishing. Less adventurous fishermen can catch Saithe and mackerel from the pier that greets visitors and locals when they arrive on the Oban Ferry.

When you visit Scalasaig you might well notice that the village hall is quite new. In fact, it is only about seven years old. The original hall was made of wood and had fallen into a state of disrepair some time ago. Fortunately the Local Capital Grants Scheme saw fit to provide the assistance needed to erect a new village hall. This newer and stronger building was funded mainly by the Scottish Executives though several other organizations also pitched in. The current Colonsay Village Hall was opened on the 20th of May 2000 as a place where the local community could meet together for training courses and events. It continues to be cherished by the local community today.

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