My Favourite Place by travel writer and podcaster Kathi Kamleitner
Canna, one of the four main islands in the Small Isles, just south of Skye. The ferry leaves from Mallaig and Canna is the furthest away, so you get the added benefit of sailing past the other islands on the way.
Why do you go there?
To me, Canna is the perfect place to spend time in nature and observe the puffins nesting on the sea stacks. I can get away from my busy life in the city and slow down for a few days. And I get to immerse myself in a welcoming community and learn about sustainable island life by speaking with locals.
How often do you go?
I've only been once, but many more times in my dreams.
How did you discover it?
I read about the puffin colony on neighbouring Sanday, which unlike many puffin spots, can be reached on foot.
Then I read about the blended model of the island ownership between the community and the National Trust for Scotland, read a book about the island’s history and my fascination grew from there.
I feel very lucky that I got to connect with many locals on Canna and speak to them about life and tourism on the island.
I fondly remember my hike along the coast of the island. I loved the views of Rum while descending from the highest hill.
Later that day, the sunset dipped the islands in golden sunlight and I could watch it from my bed in the glamping pod - it was absolutely magical. The views in Canna are just spectacular.
Who do you take?
I loved going to Canna on my own, following my nose and connecting myself with nature. Next time, I want to bring my partner to disconnect from the city together.
What do you take?
My binoculars, a notebook and pen, an audio recorder and lots of rainproof clothing
What do you leave behind?
A piece of my heart and money spent at the local community shop.
Sum it up in a few words.
Inspiring community-led projects in progress.
What other travel spot is on your wish list?
Of course, I’d love to go back to Canna, but I also want to visit the other three main Small Isles. Rum has recently been designated an International Dark Sky Sanctuary, so a stargazing weekend there would be great.
And Eigg and Muck both feature on the brand-new Small Isles Snorkel Trail, which the local community created in partnership with the Scottish Wildlife Trust. There’s so much to see on these islands. A dream destination abroad would be Greenland.
Kathi Kamleitner’s Wild for Scotland podcast returned for series six on October 1. Listen to her episode about Canna, titled Of Stacks and Stones, now.
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