A rare opportunity has emerged in Scotland’s Inner Hebrides with the listing of Shuna Island, a privately held estate that has remained under the stewardship of one family for over eight decades. Spanning approximately 1,110 acres, this extraordinary property is now available for purchase for the first time in 80 years — offering a once-in-a-lifetime chance to acquire a fully-fledged, self-sustaining island off the country’s picturesque west coast.
Located near Arduaine, Oban, Shuna presents a compelling investment for those seeking a potential development investment in one of the United Kingdom’s most scenic and storied regions. The estate comprises eight distinct residential properties, each designed harmoniously with the island’s natural topography. Among them, Shuna Farmhouse has served as the main residence, while others — such as the Boat House, Pier House, Birchwood, The Forge and South End House — cater to various uses, from guest accommodation to private retreats. In total, the island can comfortably host up to 52 guests, making it ideal for multi-generational living, a boutique hospitality venture, or a wellness resort concept.
From an operational perspective, Shuna functions as a working estate with in-hand livestock farming, government agricultural support and a flock of approximately 220 sheep. The island is rich in wildlife, with deer, otters, seals and even porpoises and dolphins spotted regularly offshore. Shuna has a long-standing reputation as a sporting estate, with opportunities for pheasant shoots, woodcock hunting and deer stalking, particularly during the autumn rut.
At the heart of the island sits the dramatic, partially preserved Shuna Castle, originally built in the early 20th century by explorer George Buckley. With panoramic coastal views, the castle presents significant redevelopment potential, subject to planning permissions. Historically, Shuna is as rich as it is remote. Its timeline stretches back over 9,000 years, with archaeological features such as Stone Age burial sites, Iron Age artefacts and even mentions in early Christian texts. Over the centuries, the island has transitioned from Gaelic kingdom lands to Maclean clan holdings and more recently, a cherished family home.
Geographically protected by the neighbouring islands of Scarba, Jura and Luing, Shuna offers a mix of sheltered bays, grazing pastures, ancient woodland and coastal cliffs, resulting in a micro-ecosystem ideal for retreat or redevelopment. The 1,110-acre layout includes 81 acres of pasture, 640 acres of rough grazing and over 300 acres of woodland and foreshore.
The island’s infrastructure is robust and future-focused. Renewable energy systems include solar panels, wind turbines, battery storage, and backup generators. For accessibility, the island features multiple slipways, a helipad, and convenient boat access from Craobh Haven Marina. Helicopter connections to Glasgow and Islay airports are available within a 55 and 45-mile radius, respectively.
Just a short boat ride from the town of Oban — known as the “Gateway to the Isles” — and close to the village of Ardfern, Shuna’s location allows both accessibility and isolation, offering investors the chance to tap into regenerative tourism, sustainable living, or the prospect of even exclusive heritage conservation.
Find out more about the property listing here.
Location: Island of Shuna, Arduaine, Oban
Price: GBP 5,500,00027 (approximately USD 7.5 million)
Amenities: 11 Beds, 12 Baths totalling 337 SQ.FT.
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