Colonsay

Welcome to Colonsay, a Temperate island in the Inner Seas off the West Coast of Scotland, part of the majestic Atlantic Ocean. This guide offers a comprehensive overview of what makes Colonsay unique – from its geography and climate to its population, infrastructure, and beyond. Dive into the details:
- Geography and Size: Explore the island’s size and location.
- Climate and Weather: Weather patterns and temperature.
- Topography and Nature: Uncover the natural wonders of the island.
- Infrastructure and Travelling: Insights on reaching, staying, and making the most of your visit.
- News and Headlines: Latest News.
Geography and size of Colonsay
Size: 42.1 km²
Coastline: 56 km
Ocean: Atlantic Ocean
Sea: Inner Seas off the West Coast of Scotland
Continent: Europe
Colonsay is a Medium Island spanning 42 km² with a coastline of 56 km.
Archipel: British Isles – A group of islands off the northwest coast of mainland Europe, including Great Britain, Ireland, and over 6,000 smaller islands, known for their rich history and cultural diversity.
Tectonic Plate: Eurasia – One of the world’s largest tectonic plates, the Eurasian Plate covers a significant portion of Europe and Asia. It’s characterized by diverse geological features, including the Ural Mountains, the European Plain, and the Himalayas formed from its collision with the Indian Plate.
The geographic heart of the island is pinpointed at these coordinates:
Latitude: 56.07517213 / Longitude: -6.20546259
Climate and weather of Colonsay
Climate Zone: Temperate
Climate Details: Temperate Oceanic Climate
Temperature: Warm Summer
Climate Characteristics: Known for its moderate year-round temperatures with ample rainfall and no dry season. Warm summers are characteristic.
Topography and nature of Colonsay
Timezone: UTC±00:00
Timezone places: Europe/London
Max. Elevation: 105 m
Mean Elevation: 37 m
Vegetation: Open Woodland
Tree Coverage: 49%
The mean elevation is 37 m. The highest elevation on the island reaches approximately 105 meters above sea level. The island is characterized by Plains: Flat, low-lying lands characterized by a maximum elevation of up to 200 meters. On islands, plains are typically coastal lowlands or central flat areas.
Dominating Vegetation: Open Woodland
Characterized by sparsely distributed trees with open canopy allowing sunlight to penetrate, supporting grasses and shrubs underneath. Often found in drier or transitional environments. Colonsay has a tree cover of 49 %.
Vegetation: 11 vegetation zones – Exceptionally Diverse Island
Islands with more than ten vegetation zones are among the most ecologically rich and varied in the world. These islands are akin to miniature continents, boasting an incredible array of ecosystems. The sheer range of habitats, from high peaks to deep valleys, rainforests to deserts, creates a mosaic of life that is unparalleled. They are crucial for conservation and ecological studies.
Infrastructure and Travelling to Colonsay
Does the island have a public airport? no.
There is no public and scheduled airport on Colonsay. The nearest airport is Islay Airport, located 39 km away.
Does the island have a major port? no.
There are no major ports on Colonsay. The closest major port is PORT ELLEN, approximately 44 km away.
The mean population of Colonsay is 3 per km². Colonsay is Gently Populated. The island belongs to United Kingdom.
Continuing your journey, Islay is the next notable island, situated merely km away.
United Kingdom is classified as Developed region: G7: Group of Seven – Major advanced economies, including Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, the United Kingdom, and the United States. The level of income is High income: OECD.
News – Latest Updates and Headlines from Colonsay
Stay informed with the most recent news and important headlines from Colonsay. Here’s a roundup of the latest developments.
- News - New GPs for Colonsay and Coll - West Coast Todayon 25 June 2026
News - New GPs for Colonsay and Coll West Coast Today
- Mowi illustrates its impact on Colonsay - Fishfarming experton 7 October 2025
Mowi illustrates its impact on Colonsay Fishfarming expert
- Amazing Scottish Islands: Here are 10 of the most incredible islands to visit in Scotland in 2025 - The Scotsmanon 14 July 2025
Amazing Scottish Islands: Here are 10 of the most incredible islands to visit in Scotland in 2025 The Scotsman
- Dream job on tiny Scottish island with cottage provided in 'rare opportunity' - Daily Recordon 16 June 2025
Dream job on tiny Scottish island with cottage provided in 'rare opportunity' Daily Record
- The Duke and Duchess of Edinburgh visit the Inner Hebrides - The Royal Familyon 29 May 2025
The Duke and Duchess of Edinburgh visit the Inner Hebrides The Royal Family
- 'I'm giving my fish smoking business away to benefit Colonsay' - BBCon 5 May 2025
'I'm giving my fish smoking business away to benefit Colonsay' BBC
- A glorious step forward: Colonsay celebrates official opening of new affordable homes development - West Coast Todayon 11 April 2025
A glorious step forward: Colonsay celebrates official opening of new affordable homes development West Coast Today
- 'Beautiful' Scottish island looking for Scots to relocate for work with cottage provided - Daily Recordon 11 February 2025
'Beautiful' Scottish island looking for Scots to relocate for work with cottage provided Daily Record
- Affordable housing development transforms Colonsay community - Scottish Housing Newson 3 February 2025
Affordable housing development transforms Colonsay community Scottish Housing News
- ‘Stunning’ 11-acre croft put up for lease by Scottish island community firm - The National Scoton 29 January 2025
‘Stunning’ 11-acre croft put up for lease by Scottish island community firm The National Scot
Please note: The data used here has been primarily extracted from satellite readings. Deviations from exact values may occur, particularly regarding the height of elevations and population density. Land area and coastline measurements refer to average values at mean high tide.
