Fairly close to the island of Sky and only 10 miles away from mainland Scotland, the isle of Eigg is mostly known for its wilderness and spectacular landscapes, but also for its cultural events, focusing on music. In terms of flora and fauna, there is plenty to be seen, and as is characteristic to the Hebrides, the birdlife is very diverse and rare species can be observed as well. The proximity to the sea is exploited at its best as well and the fishing industry is prosperous, adding to that the variety of options one has in term of water-based sports. The island is also associated with green energy, as the efforts of the community towards producing sustainable energy paid off in the commendable result of having dramatically reduced carbon emissions by almost half. Renewable energy is obtained by using natural resources – water, sunlight and wind power. These achievements have been recognized worldwide and the island enjoys an increasing popularity do to the environmentally friendly attitude of its inhabitants.
The greatness of the community of permanent inhabitants does not reside in numbers but in the determination to prevail economically while abiding by a traditional lifestyle, in these times where it is rather difficult for a small island to do so. New initiatives for celebrating Scottish folklore and customs are put into practice all the time, and are increasingly successful and thus are a valuable source of income in themselves as well as a prop for the touristic sector. The main event is Feis Eige, taking place in July and gathering people of all ages for a massive festivity centered on their ancestral heritage.