In each area they developed their own subtle differences Leading to the 'so-called' Shetland, Ronaldsay, Soay & St Kilda breeds among others. The term Hebridean is now used for the St. Kilda breed after its resurrection from near extinction. The Shetland, Ronalday, Soay etc. are still maintained as distinct breeds.

The wool is dense and basically black but bleaches brown as it grows and may go grey with age, especially on the hind- quarters.

The carcase is lean and low in cholesterol but has good marbling-fat leading to juicy and succulent meat.

Their use here at Camusdarach has hastened the establishment and spread of soft under grasses on the dunes which helps to stabilise a fragile area.

They have also been used at Culloden Moor to control the spread of unwanted, damaging acid grasses on the battlefield site.

For a long time Hebridean wool was only considered suitable for the manufacture of felt. However an increasing interest world-wide in natural fibres and naturally coloured materials has encouraged the production of hand and commercially spun knitting-wool. This produces superbly soft and warm, dark to light brown sweaters.

Recently we sent 75 kg of wool for spinning and this is available as fine Aran wool in either 50 g balls at £2 each or 100 g hanks at £4 each. Patterns can also be supplied. We have also sent fleeces to the Hebridean Wool House and we now stock a range of their products. In 2005 we also sent fleeces to the Isle of Mull Weavers who produce the most wonderful Tweeds and design their own range of clothes.

We can arrange to send wool by mail order so please contact us either by e-mail, post or telephone.

We also offer accommodation:
Campsite and Self-Catering and