Boreray

Boreray is an island in the St Kilda archipelago off the Scottish coast and rises about 384 meters from the Atlantic Ocean. Steep cliffs define the landscape, and two distinctive sea stacks named Stac an Armin and Stac Lee stand out from the water.

The island witnessed a dramatic survival situation in the winter of 1727 when a group of people took refuge on a sea stack. A smallpox outbreak on nearby Hirta forced inhabitants to abandon their usual homes.

The island bears traces of early settlement with field patterns and stone structures built by ancient inhabitants. These remains tell the story of people who lived closely with the harsh island environment.

The place is not accessible to ordinary visitors because strong ocean currents make arrival extremely difficult. There are no permanent facilities for accommodation or transportation.

The island is home to a flock of sheep that survived independently after human inhabitants left. Over time, these animals developed their own genetic lineage that differs from typical breeds.

Location: Outer Hebrides

Elevation above the sea: 384 m

Part of: St Kilda

GPS coordinates: 57.87134,-8.49166

Latest update: December 10, 2025 15:56