Isle of South Uist City Guide

About Isle of South Uist – History and Culture

The Isle of South Uist, situated in the Outer Hebrides of Scotland, is a land of ancient history and vibrant culture. The first settlers arrived around 4000 BC, leaving behind standing stones and burial cairns. During the Norse era (9th–13th centuries), the island became part of the Kingdom of the Isles, which left a lasting legacy in place names and genetic heritage. The clan system dominated after the Norse withdrawal, with the MacNeils and later the Clanranald MacDonalds holding sway until the Jacobite risings.

The 1745 Jacobite uprising ended in tragedy for South Uist, as Prince Charles Edward Stuart fled across the island before escaping to France. The subsequent Clearances (18th–19th centuries) forced many residents to emigrate, drastically reducing the population. Despite this, the island retained its Gaelic language and crofting traditions. Today, South Uist is a stronghold of Gaelic culture, with music, storytelling, and religious observance (mostly Catholic) playing central roles.

Modern South Uist embraces both heritage and change. The island has a growing renewable energy sector, a thriving tourism industry, and a close-knit community. The annual Feis Thiriodh festival and the South Uist Games celebrate local traditions, while new residents from around the world are welcomed. The culture is deeply tied to the land and sea, with a respect for nature that is reflected in conservation efforts for the machair and marine life.

• Standing stones at Allt a' Mhuilinn and Cladh a' Bhile
• The ruins of Ormacleit Castle, burned in 1715
• Our Lady of the Isles, a prominent statue on Rueval
• The Hebridean Celtic Festival connections
• The Ceòlas Gaelic cultural summer school
• The Kildonan Museum and the Uist Virtual Archaeology project

Did You Know? – Facts about Isle of South Uist

Isle of South Uist is more than just a remote island; it is a place of surprisingly diverse identity. From being a haven for rare birds to a filming location for movies, the island has many layers. Its population is one of the most Gaelic-speaking in Scotland, and it maintains a unique tradition of religious tolerance between Catholic and Protestant communities on separate islands.

The island holds several records and distinctions. It has the highest density of archaeological sites per square mile in Scotland, including a 5,000-year-old stone circle. The beaches of South Uist are regularly listed among the best in Europe for their powder-white sand, and the machair meadows burst with wildflowers in summer. The island also hosts the only distillery in the Outer Hebrides that produces gin and whisky (the Isle of South Uist Distillery, though note: there is also the Abhainn Dearg distillery on Lewis).

• South Uist has the largest area of machair in the UK.
• The island is a key site for monitoring climate change impacts on peatlands.
• It was used as a training ground for D-Day landings due to its open beaches.
• The South Uist Games are the oldest in the Hebrides (since 1871).
• The island has no traffic lights, shopping malls, or chain restaurants.
• Most of South Uist is owned by the community through the Stòras Uibhist trust.
• The Scottish SPCA has a wildlife rescue centre on the island.
• South Uist is a hot spot for sea kayaking and surfing.
• The island's peat bogs help store carbon and contain unique plant species.
• There is a monthly newspaper called 'Am Pàipear' (The Paper) in Gaelic and English.

Geography and Climate of Isle of South Uist

South Uist is part of the Outer Hebrides, lying roughly 40 kilometres west of the Scottish mainland. It is separated from its neighbour Benbecula by a narrow causeway, and to the south, the island of Eriskay is connected by another causeway. The landscape is varied: the west coast features a continuous sweep of white sandy beaches backed by the fertile machair, while the east coast is rugged with many sea lochs and the mountainous terrain of Beinn Mhòr, Beinn Coraraidh, and Hecla.

The climate is classified as oceanic (Cfb) with mild winters and cool summers, heavily influenced by the North Atlantic Drift. Rainfall is frequent but lower than on the west coast of the mainland; however, wind is a dominant factor. The island experiences up to 18 hours of daylight in June and as few as 6 in December. Weather can change rapidly, but the Gulf Stream ensures that snow is rare and winter temperatures rarely fall below freezing for long.

• Total area: 320 square kilometres.
• Highest point: Beinn Mhòr at 620 metres.
• The island has over 1,500 lochs and lochans.
• Average summer temperature: 13-16°C, winter: 4-7°C.
• Annual rainfall: about 1,200 mm, mostly in autumn and winter.
• Wind speeds average 15-20 mph, sometimes exceeding 50 mph in storms.
• Main settlements: Lochboisdale (largest), Daliburgh, Howmore, and Eochar.
• The machair ecosystem is unique to the Hebrides and western Ireland.

Things to Do in Isle of South Uist

Whether you are visiting for a short break or planning a longer stay, South Uist offers a wealth of experiences. The island’s natural beauty, cultural richness, and peaceful atmosphere make it ideal for outdoor enthusiasts, history buffs, and those seeking a true escape.

Food & Dining

South Uist’s food scene is rooted in its landscape: fresh seafood, lamb, and vegetables from crofts. The island has a growing reputation for high-quality produce, with local gin, beer, and chocolate. Restaurants and cafes range from pub grub to fine dining, often using ingredients from the surrounding waters and fields.

Traditional dishes include cullen skink (smoked haddock chowder), Uist-style oatcakes, and lamb from heather-fed flocks. The annual Uist Food and Drink Festival showcases the best of local cuisine. Dining options are limited but of high quality; it is advisable to book in advance during the summer season.

• Lochboisdale Hotel – classic seafood and steak
• The Camas Pub and Grill – locally sourced pub food
• Polochar Inn – fine dining with sea views
• Howmore Store and Café – light lunches and takeaway
• Uist Chocolate – handcrafted chocolates using Hebridean ingredients
• Hebridean Sea Salt – harvested from local waters
• The Galley Café at Kildonan Museum
• Fishing for mackerel and catching lobsters
• Sampling Isle of South Uist Distillery gin and whisky
• Attending the Uist Food Festival (August)

Festivals & Events

The island’s calendar is filled with community celebrations that highlight Gaelic culture, music, and sport. The South Uist Games are a highlight, featuring Highland dancing, caber tossing, and running races. The Feis Thiriodh (actually on Tiree) but local feisean also occur. The Ceòlas Summer School in July offers intensive Gaelic language and music courses with evening concerts open to all.

Religious festivals such as the Feast of St Michael (Là Fhèill Mìcheil) involve traditional races and gatherings. The Uist Film Festival brings international cinema to the islands. In summer, village hall ceilidhs (informal music and dance gatherings) take place weekly, welcoming visitors to join the reels.

• South Uist Games – July
• Ceòlas Summer School – July
• Uist Food and Drink Festival – August
• Là Fhèill Mìcheil (St Michael's Day) – September
• Uist Film Festival – October
• Christmas and New Year ceilidhs
• HebCelt Festival on Lewis (accessible by ferry)
• Local Sunday school galas and summer fetes

Cultural Attractions

South Uist is home to several museums and heritage sites that tell its story. Kildonan Museum and the Uist Virtual Archaeology project bring the island’s ancient past to life. The site of the 1745 Prince Charles Edward Stuart’s hiding places are marked, including the Flora MacDonald connection (she was from Benbecula but assisted his escape).

Churches are important cultural hubs; the Catholic church of St Mary’s in Daliburgh and the Protestant churches across the causeway reflect the island’s religious traditions. The statue of Our Lady of the Isles on Rueval is a prominent landmark. The community-owned Stòras Uibhist manages land and projects, including the Claddach Kirkibost Centre for arts and crafts.

• Kildonan Museum – local history, archaeology, and artifacts
• Our Lady of the Isles statue
• Ormacleit Castle ruins
• Cladh a' Bhile standing stones
• Lochboisdale War Memorial
• Ceòlas Heritage Centre (learn about Gaelic culture)
• The graves of the MacNeil chiefs in Howmore
• The old broch at Dun Vulan

Outdoor Activities

The outdoors is the main attraction on South Uist. The west coast beaches are perfect for walking, photography, and picnics, but also for surfing and kiteboarding. The island has excellent sea kayaking around the lochs and along the coast, with opportunities to see seals, otters, and eagles. Hillwalking on Beinn Mhòr offers panoramic views of the Uists and St Kilda.

Fishing is popular both sea and loch fishing. The Uist Angling Association manages access. Cycling is a great way to explore, though the roads are narrow and windy. The Hebridean Way long-distance cycling and walking route passes through South Uist. Birdwatching is superb: the RSPB reserves at Loch Druidibeg and Balranald (on North Uist) are nearby.

• Surfing at Ardivachar and West Kilbride
• Sea kayaking in Loch Boisdale and the Sound of Barra
• Hillwalking: Beinn Mhòr, Hecla, Ben Coraraidh
• Fishing: permits available for trout lochs and sea angling
• Cycling the Hebridean Way (approx 60 km on South Uist)
• Birdwatching: corncrakes, golden eagles, white-tailed eagles
• Horse riding on the beach (pony trekking)
• Golf: The Askernish Golf Club – a classic old Tom Morris course
• Wildlife photography
• Stargazing (Dark Sky Discovery Site at West Kilbride)

Economy and Key Industries

The economy of South Uist is diversified though small in scale. Historically dependent on crofting, fishing, and weaving, the island has embraced new sectors in recent decades. Tourism is now a major pillar, with visitors drawn to the natural beauty and culture. The community-owned Stòras Uibhist (South Uist Estate) manages over 90,000 acres and invests in renewable energy, housing, and business support.

Renewable energy is a growing sector: South Uist has several wind turbines and community-owned solar arrays. Aquaculture, particularly salmon farming, provides employment in fish processing plants. The creative industries, including music production and visual arts, are also emerging, partly due to the Gaelic cultural revival. Small-scale manufacturing includes the Isle of South Uist Distillery (producing gin and whisky) and food processing like the Uist Chocolate company.

Unemployment remains low but seasonal, and the population decline experienced in the mid-20th century has been halted by inward migration and housing schemes. The average income is below the Scottish average, but costs of living are also lower in many respects. The island benefits from European structural funds and Scottish Government rural development programs.

• Tourism: accommodation, food, activities
• Crofting: cattle, sheep, potatoes, and barley
• Fishing and aquaculture: salmon, shellfish
• Renewable energy: wind turbines, community heat schemes
• Distilling: Isle of South Uist Distillery
• Food production: Uist Chocolate, Hebridean Sea Salt
• Construction and building trades
• Public services: health, education, council
• Arts and crafts: weaving, pottery, music

Where to Live in Isle of South Uist

Accommodation on South Uist ranges from croft houses to modern bungalows, and new housing developments are underway. The main centres of population are Lochboisdale (a port village with shops, a hotel, and ferry links), Daliburgh (home to the main school and health centre), and Howmore (a historic village with a ruined church and teetotal hotel). The west side has scattered crofting townships like Eochar, Iochdar, and Ardmore.

For those seeking a more remote lifestyle, the east coast offers secluded houses with sea views across the Minch. Community life is strongest in the west coast townships, where the machair and beaches are. The island is predominantly Roman Catholic on the west side, while the Church of Scotland is more present in the east. The community is welcoming, but integration requires participation in local events and an appreciation of the Gaelic language.

New housing is often provided by the South Uist Estate or by the local housing association. There are also private purchases; prices are generally lower than the Scottish average but vary by location. The island has a growing community of newcomers from England, Europe, and beyond, attracted by the peaceful environment and community spirit.

• Lochboisdale: ferry terminal, shops, and primary school
• Daliburgh: secondary school (Lionacleit), health centre, and hospital
• Howmore: historic core, no pub but village hall events
• Eochar: close to beaches and the Askernish golf course
• Ardmore: remote west coast crofting township
• Pollachar: southernmost settlement with an inn and harbour
• West Kilbride: surfing beach and dark sky site
• Loch Drudibeg area: birdwatching and walking

Formalities and Visas in Isle of South Uist

Since Isle of South Uist is part of the United Kingdom, standard UK immigration rules apply. Visitors from many countries can enter without a visa for up to 6 months. For longer stays or work, appropriate visas (e.g., Skilled Worker, Family, or Innovator) are needed. The UK's points-based system governs immigration, and the island offers no special exemptions aside from being part of the UK.

EU, EEA, and Swiss citizens can visit without a visa for short stays but need a visa to work or settle after Brexit. The EU Settlement Scheme allows those who were living in the UK by 31 December 2020 to apply for settled status. Non-EEA nationals should check the UK government website for specific requirements. There is no local immigration office; the nearest visa application centre is in Glasgow or Inverness.

Work permits require sponsorship from an employer, and many businesses on South Uist are too small to sponsor. However, there are opportunities in sectors like healthcare, education, and seasonal tourism where skilled workers may be sponsored. It is advisable to secure a job offer and visa before moving. The island also welcomes retirees and others who can demonstrate financial independence.

• Visitors: up to 6 months visa-free for many nationalities
• Standard Visitor Visa for others
• Skilled Worker Visa: requires job offer from licensed sponsor
• Health and Care Worker Visa: for NHS jobs
• Global Talent Visa: for arts and sciences
• Family Visa: for spouses, children, elderly parents
• EU Settlement Scheme: for EU/EEA/Swiss pre-settled status
• Innovator / Start-up Visa: for entrepreneurs
• Proof of funds and accommodation required
• No local visa centre: apply online and attend biometrics in Glasgow
• Customs: standard UK allowances

Working in Isle of South Uist

The job market on South Uist is small but offers opportunities in specific fields. The largest employers are the public sector: health service (NHS Western Isles), education (Comhairle nan Eilean Siar), and local government. Tourism and hospitality are significant seasonal employers. There are also roles in construction, renewable energy maintenance, and aquaculture.

Professional culture is informal but hardworking. Gaelic is an advantage in many jobs, especially those involving community interaction. The working week typically runs Monday to Friday, with some seasonal flexibility. Remote working has become more viable with superfast broadband available in many areas, though not all. Some residents commute to Benbecula or even to the mainland for work, but the high cost of ferries can be a barrier.

For newcomers, building a career may require entrepreneurship or commitment to a specific sector. The Stòras Uibhist trust runs business support programmes. Volunteering is a great way to network and gain experience. The average salary is around £25,000, but lower than the UK average; however, reasonable housing costs offset that to some extent.

• NHS: doctors, nurses, allied health professionals
• Education: teachers (especially Gaelic-medium), teaching assistants
• Tourism: hotel and B&B staff, guides, chefs
• Aquaculture: fish farm technicians, processors
• Renewable energy: wind turbine technicians, maintenance
• Construction: joiners, builders, electricians
• Retail: shop assistants, managers in co-operative stores
• Transport: ferry crew, bus drivers
• Remote work: IT, digital marketing, writing

Studying in Isle of South Uist

Educational opportunities on South Uist are limited but of high quality. The island has a primary school (Lochboisdale and Howmore?) and one secondary school, Lionacleit in Daliburgh, which serves also Benbecula and Eriskay. The school offers Gaelic-medium education and a range of subjects. For further education, students often move to the mainland for colleges and universities.

The local college, Lews Castle College (part of the University of the Highlands and Islands), has a learning centre in Benbecula offering courses in Gaelic, traditional music, and business. The Ceòlas summer school attracts students from around the world for intensive Gaelic language and music study. For university degrees, the University of the Highlands and Islands provides distance learning options, and many students commute to Stornoway or mainland institutions.

Student life on South Uist is quiet but rich in cultural experiences. Many young adults leave for higher education, but some return. The island encourages lifelong learning through community classes. Scholarships may be available through local trusts like the Stòras Uibhist and the Gaelic development agency Bòrd na Gàidhlig.

• Primary schools: Lochboisdale, Daliburgh, Howmore (gaelic and english)
• Secondary: Lionacleit School (S1-S6)
• Further education: Lews Castle College learning centre in Benbecula
• University of the Highlands and Islands (distance learning)
• Ceòlas Gaelic Summer School
• Traditional music tuition from local experts
• Apprenticeships in construction, aquaculture, hospitality
• Volunteering opportunities in heritage projects
• Scholarships: Stòras Uibhist community fund
• School transport provided by bus
• School year: mid-August to late June
• Support for Gaelic learners

Finance and Banks in Isle of South Uist

Banking services on South Uist are limited. There is a branch of the Royal Bank of Scotland in Lochboisdale (open part-time), and a post office that provides basic banking. Many residents use online banking from the major UK banks (Lloyds, Barclays, HSBC, etc.). Cash machines are available in Lochboisdale and Daliburgh but may occasionally be empty.

For daily transactions, debit cards are widely accepted, but some small businesses and community events prefer cash. Contactless payments are common. There are no credit unions on the island, but the local credit union in Benbecula is accessible. For business accounts, it is advisable to use a bank with a good online platform, as local branch services are minimal.

• Royal Bank of Scotland: limited hours in Lochboisdale
• Post Office: banking services for many accounts
• Online banks: Monzo, Starling, etc. work well
• Cash machines: one in Lochboisdale, one in Daliburgh
• Currency: British Pound Sterling (GBP)
• Taxes: Income Tax and National Insurance as per UK
• Council Tax: bands A to H, lower than urban areas
• VAT: 20% standard, included in most prices
• Digital payments: PayPal, bank transfers

Health Care in Isle of South Uist

Healthcare on South Uist is provided by NHS Western Isles. There is a small community hospital in Daliburgh (Uist and Barra Hospital) with a minor injuries unit and inpatient beds. For emergencies, the helicopter air ambulance serves the island. General practices are located in Lochboisdale and Daliburgh, with outreach services in other areas.

Dental care is available but limited; many residents travel to Benbecula or the mainland for treatments. Opticians and pharmacy services are present in Daliburgh. Specialist care requires travel to Inverness or Glasgow. For residents, it is essential to register with a GP upon arrival. Private health insurance is recommended for elective procedures or faster access.

• Uist and Barra Hospital: 24/7 minor injuries, inpatient care
• GP practices: Lochboisdale and Daliburgh
• Dental: limited NHS, private available in Benbecula
• Pharmacy: Daliburgh (Boots), also Lochboisdale
• Optician: part-time service
• Ambulance: land ambulance from Daliburgh, helicopter from Stornoway
• Mental health: local support teams
• Maternity: births often occur in mainland hospitals
• Health visitors and community nurses
• Prescription charges: free in Scotland

Accommodation in Isle of South Uist

Housing on South Uist consists mainly of stone-built croft houses and modern bungalows. The South Uist Estate and local housing association provide rentals, with priority given to key workers and those with local connections. Private rentals are scarce and often offered through word of mouth. Buying property is possible through estate agents or private listings; prices are reasonable but vary.

Types of housing include traditional thatched cottages (rare), modern homes with oil heating, and new builds with heat pumps. The condition of older properties may require renovation. Planning permission is controlled by the Comhairle (council) and is generally favourable to new houses if they meet design standards. Many newcomers choose to buy and renovate a croft house.

• Renting: via Stòras Uibhist (estate) and housing association, waiting lists possible
• Buying: average price around £120,000-£200,000 for a 3-bed house
• New builds: rare but available through community initiatives
• Renovation projects: some unmodernized properties for less than £100,000
• Council tax: low bands (A-C typically)

Planning Your Move to Isle of South Uist

Relocating to South Uist requires careful preparation. The island is remote, so you need to arrange transportation for your belongings. Ferry bookings for vehicles essential. It is advisable to visit first to get a feel for the place and establish contacts. Many people move here for lifestyle reasons, seeking peace, space, and community.

Practical steps: register with a GP, transfer bank accounts, sort out vehicle registration (if from abroad), and set up utilities. Broadband is generally good but check availability. Waste collection is bi-weekly. You should also consider winter preparedness: heating oil deliveries and access to roads after storms. Be prepared for a slower pace of life.

• Visit the island before moving
• Secure accommodation before arrival
• Arrange ferry for vehicle and goods (Caledonian MacBrayne)
• Notify banks and insurance companies
• Register with a local GP practice
• Set up utilities: water (public), electricity (SSE), oil for heating
• Broadband: check Openreach or satellite (Starlink)
• Register to vote locally
• Change vehicle registration (if from outside the UK)
• Join local community groups (facebook, village hall)
• Learn some Gaelic basics
• Stock up on supplies from mainland before moving

Leisure in Isle of South Uist

Leisure time on South Uist is spent outdoors or in community gatherings. There are few traditional nightclubs, but pubs and hotels offer live music at weekends. The Lochboisdale Hotel and Polochar Inn are hubs for entertainment. Village halls host dances, ceilidhs, and bingo nights. Shopping is limited to the co-operative stores, bakeries, and craft shops.

The island has an 18-hole golf course at Askernish, designed by Old Tom Morris, which is free to play. There are also walking trails, fishing spots, and a swimming pool at the school (open to public limited hours). For a change of pace, the South Uist Games or local competitions provide spectacle and community spirit.

• Askernish Golf Course
• Lochboisdale Hotel for live music and bar
• Polochar Inn for dining and events
• Community halls: Howmore, Daliburgh, and others
• Fishing on lochs or sea charters
• Walking the Hebridean Way
• Boat trips to St Kilda or Monach Islands
• Craft workshops in pottery and weaving

Transportation Options in Isle of South Uist

Getting to South Uist is primarily by ferry or air. Caledonian MacBrayne operates a ferry from Oban to Lochboisdale (5.5 hours) and also from Uig (Skye) to Lochmaddy (North Uist) then drive south. There is an airport on Benbecula (with flights to Glasgow and Stornoway). On the island, the main road runs north-south, with single-track roads branching off. Buses connect the main settlements, but a car is almost essential for flexible travel.

Within the island, car hire is available from Lochboisdale and Benbecula. Taxis can be booked. Cycling is possible but challenging due to wind. There is no railway. The causeways to Benbecula and Eriskay make inter-island travel easy. For exploring the Outer Hebrides, a car is recommended.

• Ferry: Oban-Lochboisdale (car ferry, 5.5 hrs)
• Ferry: Uig-Lochmaddy (1.75 hrs, then drive 45 mins)
• Air: Benbecula Airport (15 mins drive) flights to Glasgow and Stornoway
• Bus: W1/W2 routes connecting S Uist to N Uist and Benbecula
• Car hire: Lochboisdale (MacLennan's), Benbecula (Budget)
• Taxis: available on demand
• Cycling: Hebridean Way route
• Fuel stations: Diesel and petrol at Lochboisdale, Daliburgh

Everyday Life in Isle of South Uist

Daily life follows the rhythms of the seasons and community. Shops open limited hours, and many things close on Sundays (reflecting the island's religious heritage). People greet each other on the street. The weather dictates much outdoor activity. There is a strong sense of mutual support: items are shared, lifts given, and news spreads quickly. Crime is very low.

Services are concentrated in the central area (Daliburgh to Lochboisdale). For major shopping or specialised services, residents travel to Benbecula or the mainland once a month. Internet connectivity is acceptable in most areas but can be slow in the far south. Community events fill the calendar, from coffee mornings to sports days.

• Safety: very low crime, but lock doors as standard
• Shops: Co-op in Lochboisdale, also in Daliburgh; limited Sunday openings
• Post offices: Lochboisdale and Daliburgh
• Banks: part-time RBS in Lochboisdale
• Fuel: not open 24 hours; plan ahead
• Recycling: bins collected fortnightly; glass and paper at recycling points

Cost of Living in Isle of South Uist

The cost of living on South Uist is generally lower than the UK average for housing, but higher for fuel, food, and utilities due to transport costs. Council tax is in the lowest bands. Heating oil prices are higher than the mainland. Groceries from the local store are more expensive than supermarket chains, but many households order online from mainland supermarkets for bulk items.

Eating out is reasonable, but limited. Entertainment is low cost (outdoor activities are free). The average monthly expenses for a single person might be £1,200-£1,500 including rent. For a family, £2,500-£3,000. Housing is the biggest saving, with rents typically £400-£700 for a two-bed house. Overall, the cost is moderate for Scotland.

• Rent: one-bed flat £350-£500, three-bed house £550-£800
• Council tax: band A ~£900/year, band D ~£1,300/year
• Utility bills: electricity ~£80/month, oil heating ~£150/month in winter
• Food: typical weekly shop for two £60-£80
• Petrol: slightly higher than mainland, currently ~1.50/litre
• Bus fares: affordable, single journey ~£2-£5
• Eating out: pub meal £12-£18

Places to Visit in Isle of South Uist

The island offers many memorable sites. The west coast beaches (e.g., Ardivachar, Kilbride, and Hougharry) are stunning stretches of white sand with turquoise water, especially beautiful in low tide. The machair behind them is carpeted with wildflowers in June and July. The ruined Ormacleit Castle is a photogenic spot on the south coast, with views to Eriskay.

The statue of Our Lady of the Isles on Rueval is a powerful monument. For history, the Kildonan Museum displays local artefacts, including a fine collection of Bronze Age items. The Askernish Golf Course is a pilgrimage for golf enthusiasts. The remote Monach Islands (accessible by boat) are a nature reserve with huge seal colonies.

For wildlife, sea eagle sightings are common along the east coast. Loch Druidibeg is a National Nature Reserve famed for corncrakes and waders. A drive through the east side reveals dramatic scenery of lochans and moorland. In the south, the island of E