Beautiful Scots island owned by the same family for 80 years goes up for sale
A rare chance to buy a scenic Scottish island has just come up after decades in the same family
An extraordinary opportunity has emerged off Scotland's wild west coast as the island of Shuna is listed for sale for the first time in 80 years.
Held by the same family since the aftermath of the Second World War, the 1,110-acre estate is now being offered as a rare chance to own a private island steeped in history, beauty and boundless potential. It's listed for £5.5 million ($7.44 million) with Knight Frank.
Shuna was bought in the late 1940s by Viscountess Selby in what has become family legend. Speaking to Bloomberg, Jim Gully, whose family has owned the island ever since, recalled: 'It's really been such a dream island and a huge part of all of our lives.'
He added: 'They thought it was a fairly eccentric question. They had one island on the west coast of Scotland. So, she bought the island and moved the family up there.'
According to Gully, his grandmother had walked into a London estate agent after the war asking if they had any islands on their books. 'It'd been a pretty traumatic time for lots of people and she was looking for a new start,' he said. Today, the island remains every bit as magical, a captivating mix of rugged coastline, secluded bays, scenic woodland and ancient landmarks.
At its heart are the atmospheric ruins of Shuna Castle, a striking early 20th-century building with panoramic coastal views. Though partially collapsed, the site holds significant redevelopment potential, subject to planning.
In total, Shuna boasts eight residential properties, each with their own unique setting. The Shuna Farmhouse, a Category B listed building dating from the 1740s, later replaced Castle Shuna as the island's principal residence. To the north, the Boat House and Pier House overlook tranquil Loch Shuna, offering an idyllic welcome point for guests arriving by boat.
Scattered further inland are Birchwood, The Garden House, Oakwood Cottage and The Forge, all spaced to ensure privacy and positioned to maximise the stunning natural views.
At the southern tip lies the picture-perfect South End House, nestled into the hillside above a private bay. Touted as one of Scotland's most scenic holiday homes, it offers a secluded retreat with sweeping sea vistas.
Across all properties, the island can accommodate up to 52 guests, lending itself to multi-generational living, high-end hospitality or even a wellness destination.
Shuna is a working estate with a strong agricultural foundation. In-hand livestock farming continues on the island, which also teems with wildlife. Red deer, fallow deer, eagles and porpoises are among the regular inhabitants, and country sports such as deer stalking have long been part of its traditions.
Infrastructure is already in place to support modern sustainable living. A renewable energy system powers the island with photovoltaic panels, wind turbines, battery storage and back-up generators.
Travel is also well accounted for, with a private pier, slipways, and even a helipad. Craobh Haven Marina and Arduaine Pier offer easy boat access, while helicopter flights connect to Glasgow and Islay airports, just 55 and 45 miles away.
A single road runs through the heart of the island from the North Pier to South End House, winding past panoramic viewpoints, a walled garden and stretches of sand and rock-strewn shoreline.
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Beyond Shuna itself, the surrounding area is famed for its dramatic natural beauty. Nearby lies the Corryvreckan Whirlpool, one of the largest tidal whirlpools in the world, while the bustling port of Oban, known as the Gateway to the Isles, offers shops, schools, ferry links and eateries a short boat trip away.
The village of Ardfern, even closer, provides a marina, café, local shop and tight-knit community spirit.
Historically, Shuna has deep ties to the Stewarts of Appin. Records from the late 16th century note its ownership by John Stewart, the Laird of Appin.
The original Castle Shuna, now a ruin at the island's southern end, is believed to have been built by the Stewarts as a small tower house. Directly across the loch sits Castle Stalker, another former Stewart stronghold, adding to the island's rich historical tapestry.
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