Population: 20… Scenery and seclusion on the Isle of Ulva

What do you do when a pair of white-tailed sea eagles make their nest by your home?

If you happen to be one of the six residents who lives on the enterprising community-owned isle of Ulva, you set up a pop-up eagle watch in your garden.

A direct view to the nest can be enjoyed from the comfort of Barry George’s back yard at Bracadale, about half a mile from the pier.

The adult eagles have moved into Ulva, which lies off the west coast of Mull, for the first time this year. The island is only seven-and-a-half miles long and two-and-a-half miles wide.

The adult pair are currently feeding a large single chick aged about eight weeks old.

It will hopefully take its maiden flight at about three months old.

Ulva was brought into community ownership in 2018 with a deal worth about £4.5 million after an agreement was reached between North West Mull Community Woodland Company and the previous owner, James Howard.

The island was owned by the Howard family for more than 70 years.

Off the west coast of Mull lie Ulva and Gometra, two neighbouring islands connected by a bridge. Ulva, the larger of the two islands, is 7.5 miles by 2.5 miles wide and is reached by a short ferry ride from Mull.

With a population of about 20 people combined, these islands make for a great place to visit if you’re looking for a bit of scenic peace and quiet.

The islands were, however, once home to about 600 people and in 2018 Ulva was bought by the community, which is working towards increasing the population.

An agricultural isle, Gometra was previously used by the monks of Iona as their granary, and it is still home to many animals – including sheep, horses and cattle. Gometra is the perfect place for an off-grid experience, offering no electricity or reliable hot water. The island intends to become carbon-neutral by 2025.

Ulva, meanwhile, has plenty to see with restored blackhouses and standing stones, as well as the eerie Livingston’s Cave and a stunning coastline.

And Ulva’s highest summit Beinn Chreagach, reaching 1,027ft, is a must for hillwalkers. Ulva and Gometra might be wee, but there’s nowhere better to switch off and take a trip back in time.