Wandering among the abandoned settlements on this remote group islands is an evocative reminder of those who once lived here. The last of the inhabitants left in 1912, leaving behind a precarious existence based on crofting, fishing and fowling.

Today, Mingulay (12 miles south of Barra) and Berneray are Sites of Special Scientific Interest for the marine vegetation, rock shore and spectacular cliff habitats found there, as well as a Special Protection Area for the seabird population. All the islands also have significant archaeological sites, with large areas on Mingulay and Pabbay being designated as Scheduled Ancient Monuments.