Scottish Blog

Raasay is a Scottish island that lies between Scotland and the Isle of Skye.

Although small in size, Raasay is a surprisingly important aspect of Scottish history. Raasay is the birthplace of Clan MacSween and was also ruled by Clan MacLeod for almost three centuries. It is the birthplace of Sorley MacLean. On a natural scale Rassay is also the only home to the Black Vole, a subspecies of the vole family of animals.

The island of Raasay is 6405 hectares in size, the dimensions of which being at most five kilometres in width and twenty three kilometres in length, the 19th biggest in size amongst all the Scottish islands. This area is home to over 190 inhabitants, making it the 33rd most populated Scottish island.

The main population centre of Raasay is Inverrarish. Economically it is supported predominantly by tourism, fishing and catering to the ferry company located on the island.

Although it is known that Clan MacSween was the title holders of Raasay, there are no remaining records proving this. There are records though of Clan MacLeod holding the titles to the island since 1518. It was sold during times of financial trouble in 1843 fro 35,000 guineas by John MacLeod. Currently the island is in the ownership of the Highland and Island Development Board.