Understand
Originally called Inis Shroin House of the Water Spirit, the Holy Island seems to have been a place of great spiritual importance from the time it was founded. The island later became the home of Saint Molaise. He lived in a cave, which has since been named after him.
Today, Holy Island is home to a community of Buddhist monks in the Kagyu tradition of Tibetan Buddhism. Apparently a vision of the Virgin Mary persuaded the previous owner to sell it to Lama Yeshe Losal Rinpoche, who is one the monks. There is a retreat center, monastery and an interfaith 'Peace Hall.' Note that if you get caught smoking, or if you get found with any amount of alcohol, drugs or tobacco you will be told to leave the island. Pets are also forbidden on the island because of its unique wildlife. This rule has been especially increased because in 2009 a dog was bought onto the island on a private boat and it killed a rare breed Soay sheep.
