About the Island of Coll

Coll enjoys a mild climate with a high sunshine record and is some 53 miles from Oban and is approximately 13 miles long and 3 miles wide, with many unspoilt sandy beaches. There are endless opportunities for hill and coastal walks. Part of the island is a RSPB reserve.

The resident population of around 205 and still growing! engages mainly in farming, tourism, fishing, and craftwork. Project Trust, an educational charity which sends youngsters to work abroad during their gap year, is based on the island. The Trust also provides employment for several islanders.

There are colonies of common and grey seals and also otters. These can often be viewed from the windows of Tigh-na-Mara. In the summer there is a profusion of wild flowers and there is a multitude of bird life including the (in)famous corncrake. The RSPB has owned a reserve on Coll for some years to promote the conservation primarily of the corncrake, weekly guided walks are usually available during the summer months.

There are many sites of archaeological interest including standing stones, forts, duns, crannogs and a souterrain.

For the more energetic there is bicycle hire and the island boasts an interesting 9 hole golf course. There is also loch fishing available.

Available on the island is a grocery/paper shop, post office, hotel, licensed restaurant, church and various craft shops. It is worth noting Coll does have a cash machine in the Post Office.

Should medical attention be required Coll is fortunate to have a resident doctor and district nurse.

It exerts a curious influence on many, and of those who visit, many return frequently over the years, relishing the choice of total tranquillity or energetic pursuits.

There is no doubt that you can "get away from it all on Coll". Why not come and see?