Rùm Travel Guide

Planning a trip to Rùm in Scotland? This guide covers everything you need to know, from attractions to accommodations to local customs.


Introduction to Rùm

Rùm is a breathtakingly beautiful island located in Inner Hebrides, Scotland. Known for its rugged terrain and stunning scenery, Rùm is a wonderful destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. The island has a rich history and culture as well, with plenty of attractions that showcase its traditional way of life. In this guide, we’ll cover all the essentials of planning a trip to Rùm, from must-visit attractions to where to stay to important safety information.

List of Places to Visit in Rùm

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Kinloch Castle: This fascinating 20th-century castle is a great place to learn about the history of Rùm and its people. The castle is filled with beautiful artwork and furniture, and guided tours offer a glimpse into the lives of the island’s former inhabitants.
  • Harris Memorial Hall: This community center is an important hub of cultural activity on Rùm, hosting everything from concerts to ceilidhs (traditional Scottish dance parties).
  • Crofting Township: Located in the village of Kilmory, this replica of an old-fashioned crofting (small-scale farming) community offers a fascinating glimpse into traditional island life.

Natural Attractions of Rùm: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Kinloch Castle Gardens: These beautiful 19th-century gardens are filled with exotic plants and flowers, including rhododendrons and azaleas. Take a leisurely stroll through the grounds and enjoy the stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
  • Hallival and Askival Peaks: These two towering mountains are popular destinations for hikers and climbers, offering challenging terrain and stunning views of the island below.
  • Kilmory Beach: This gorgeous white-sand beach is a great place to relax and soak up some sun. The crystal-clear waters are perfect for swimming or snorkeling, and the beach is surrounded by stunning cliffs and rock formations.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Rùm

Rùm is a hiker’s paradise, with dozens of scenic trails winding through the island’s rugged landscape. Some of the most popular routes include:

  • Kinloch to Harris: This 12-mile route takes you through some of the island’s most breathtaking scenery, including stunning lochs and craggy peaks.
  • Coire Dubh Loop: This 6-mile loop is perfect for a day hike, taking you through a stunning glen filled with wildflowers and waterfalls.
  • Kilmory Wildlife Walk: This 4-mile route is a great way to spot some of Rùm’s local wildlife, including red deer, otters, and golden eagles.

Biking is also a popular way to explore the island, with plenty of scenic routes to choose from. You can rent a bike in Kinloch and explore at your own pace.

Best Things to Do in Rùm: Activities and Tours

  • Wildlife Safari: Take a guided tour through the island’s breathtaking wilderness and spot some of Rùm’s resident wildlife, including red deer, sea eagles, and puffins.
  • Sea Kayaking: Explore Rùm’s stunning coastline by kayak, taking in the rugged cliffs and hidden coves from a unique perspective.
  • Fishing Trip: Hire a local guide and try your luck at catching some of Rùm’s famous seafood, including fresh lobster and crab.

Week-Long Itinerary for Rùm

Day 1: Arrive in Kinloch and explore the village. Visit Kinloch Castle and its gardens.

Day 2: Hike Askival Peak and take in the stunning views of the island below.

Day 3: Spend a day relaxing at Kilmory Beach, swimming and sunbathing.

Day 4: Take a wildlife safari and spot some of Rùm’s resident wildlife.

Day 5: Sea kayak around the coast and explore hidden coves and caves.

Day 6: Rent a bike and explore the island’s other villages and attractions.

Day 7: Depart from Rùm.

Food and Drink Scene of Rùm

Must-Try Dishes

  • Cullen Skink: This hearty soup is made with smoked haddock, potatoes, and onions, and is a traditional Scottish favorite.
  • Haggis: A Scottish classic, haggis is made from sheep’s heart, liver, and lungs combined with oats and spices, and served with neeps and tatties (turnips and potatoes).
  • Arbroath Smokies: These smoked haddock fillets are a delicious and flavorful local specialty.

Local Beverages

  • Whisky: Scotland’s national drink, whisky is made from fermented malted barley and comes in many varieties.
  • Ale: Rùm has several local breweries that produce excellent ales, including the Isle of Rùm Distillery and Brewery.

Where to Stay in Rùm: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • Kinloch Castle Hotel: This historic hotel is located in the heart of Kinloch village and offers comfortable rooms and stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
  • Rùm Hostel: This cozy, affordable hostel is located near Kilmory Beach and is a great choice for travelers on a budget.
  • Tigh Eilidh Guesthouse: This charming guesthouse is located in the village of Harris and offers comfortable rooms and a warm, welcoming atmosphere.

What to Buy in Rùm: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Whisky: Scotland is famous for its whisky, and Rùm has several local distilleries that produce excellent varieties.
  • Harris Tweed: This handwoven fabric is a traditional Scottish specialty and makes a great souvenir or gift.
  • Smoked Seafood: Rùm is known for its delicious smoked seafood, including haddock and salmon.

Local Culture and Customs of Rùm

Rùm has a rich Gaelic cultural heritage, with many traditions still alive and well on the island. Visitors are encouraged to respect local customs and traditions, such as speaking Gaelic when appropriate and participating in local festivals and events.

Best Time to Visit Rùm

The best time to visit Rùm is during the summer months, when the weather is warm and sunny and the wildflowers are in bloom. However, be aware that this is also the busiest time of year, and accommodations and attractions may be crowded. If you prefer a quieter vacation, consider visiting in the spring or fall, when the crowds are thinner but the weather is still mild.

Do’s and Don’ts of Rùm

Do:

  • Respect local customs and traditions.
  • Take care not to disturb local wildlife or natural habitats.
  • Dress warmly and in layers, as the weather can be unpredictable.

Don’t:

  • Litter or leave trash behind.
  • Trespass on private property or disrupt local residents.
  • Ignore safety guidelines and warnings when hiking or engaging in outdoor activities.

Safety and Health

Safety in Rùm

Rùm is generally a safe destination for travelers, but it’s still important to take precautions when engaging in outdoor activities. Be sure to check weather conditions and trail maps before heading out, and always let someone know your planned route and expected return time.

Health in Rùm

There are no major health concerns in Rùm, but it’s always a good idea to bring basic medical supplies with you, such as painkillers and bandages. The island has a small medical center in case of emergencies.

Getting to Rùm: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Rùm

The nearest airport is Glasgow International Airport, which is about 100 miles from the island. From there, you can take a bus or hire a car to reach the ferry terminal.

Bus Stations Near Rùm

The nearest bus station is in Mallaig, which is about 20 miles from the ferry terminal. From there, you can take a local bus or taxi to reach the ferry.

Other Options

You can also reach Rùm by private boat or charter plane, although these options are generally more expensive and less convenient.

How to Get Around in Rùm

The easiest way to get around the island is by foot or bicycle, although there are also local buses and taxis available. All major attractions and villages are within walking or biking distance of each other, and the scenery along the way is breathtaking.

Where to Go Next from Rùm: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Skye: This beautiful island is located just a short ferry ride from Rùm and is known for its dramatic landscapes and rich history.
  • Fort William: This charming Scottish town is located on the mainland and is a great place to explore traditional Scottish culture and history.

Conclusion

Rùm is a truly unique and stunning destination, offering a one-of-a-kind glimpse into Scotland’s wild and rugged landscape. Whether you’re a hiker, a nature lover, or a history buff, there’s plenty to see and do on this beautiful island. Follow this guide to plan the ultimate Rùm vacation and create memories that will last a lifetime.

Kinloch Castle, Isle of Rum Kinloch Castle, Isle of Rum Rum Community Hall and General Store in Kinloch Rum Community Hall and General Store in Kinloch Guirdil Bothy and Bloodstone Hill Guirdil Bothy and Bloodstone Hill