A Visit to the beautiful Isle of Gigha
Any essential travel guide will tell you that islands should be on any holiday checklist. The Isle of Gigha is no exception. Pronounced “Geeya”, the Isle is 7 miles by 1.5 miles at its widest point, making it a perfect location to freely roam without losing your bearings. It is one of many that make up the Hebridean Islands. What makes Gigha stand out from others is that in 2002 the population bought-out the island itself and as a result it is now community-owned by the Isle Of Gigha Heritage Trust.
Granted, you may not get the sort of Costa Del Sol weather this high up in Europe but let's just focus on a few wee plus points for a second; white sandy beaches, crystal clear water ideal for exploring, breathtaking views, fresh and local produce and a sense of getting back to the very basics.
Getting to Gigha is pretty straightforward. Just hop on a ferry from the Tayinloan ferry port and you’ll have Isle of Gigha sand in between your toes in just 20 minutes. Ferries are approximately every 30 minutes. Remember if you fancy leaving the family bumper car behind then why not explore the island and its offerings by foot or bike.
Food, Activities and Where to Stay
The Boathouse
The Boathouse is recognised for its superb fresh fish and seafood - quite literally caught in the surrounding waters. Recognised in the Michelin Guide this family run business is located in the Ardminish Bay and sits in a 300 year old boathouse, beautifully decorated and styled. Why not eat on the beach, or perhaps if there is a slight chill in the air relax on the heated decking overlooking the bay. Check them out here.
Gigha Boats and Activity Centre
Gigha Boats & Activity Centre is the place to go if you would like to get into some light (or not!) holiday exercise. What's more is they are located just off the ferry strip - a perfect location if you haven’t come across with your car and want to get around on the Low Carbon Travel approved E-bikes. If biking doesn’t tickle your fancy why not try your skills with some kayaking, paddle boarding and even some mini golf instead.
Contact Craig to get yourself sorted.
link: https://www.facebook.com/Gigha-boats-and-activity-centre-100704742135800/
Ardminish Stores (Joe & Hannah)
Joe and Hannah’s store keeps everyone's kitchen well stocked and cars topped up with fuel. Basic provisions like fresh fruit and veg, everyday items and even postal service for those holiday postcards are just some examples of what you can find here. And if that isn’t enough, try The Nook seafood takeaway they also run. To call it fresh is an understatement.
link: https://www.facebook.com/ardminishstores/
Wee Isle Dairy
The Wee Isle Dairy is a family run dairy farm north of the Island. Just picture those TV ads of swashing fresh creamy milk and well reared dairy cows over a beautiful meadow setback. Yeah, you’ve got the picture..
The farm rears around 60 cows and produces the island's own branded ice cream as well - also stocked in the Ardminish Stores.
link: https://www.facebook.com/WeeIsleDairy/
Golf
Keen golfer? The Isle of Gigha offers a 9-hole golf course about half a mile from the ferry terminal. Once on the course, you’ll have fantastic panoramic views of the Kintyre and Knapdale peninsulares. And when you are done, head over to the hotel for a well earned drink.
Get in touch with the Gigha Trust for more information on availability and pricing.
Achamore Gardens
Set in 54 acres the Achamore Gardens is an oasis of some very unique and varied plants and woodland. Created by Colonel Sir James Horlick in 1944, these gardens are host to Horlick’s renowned Rhododendron and Camellia collection, exotic trees and a bamboo maze. Head to the garden viewpoint for some inspirational views and painting ideas.
Click here for a complete map of the gardens.
link: http://www.gardens-of-argyll.co.uk/view-details.php?id=446
Wildlife
Being an island there is an abundance of wildlife both in and out of the water. If you are a keen birdwatcher then you’ve come to the right place. Gigha is home to falcons, kestrels, hen harriers and many other predatory birds - while you can alternatively find a number of different seals and even dolphins in the waters. Or just pull up a chair and close your eyes - immerse yourself into the beautiful sounds of wildlife. Head over here for more information.
If you are into the Dark Skies movement then come prepared - over 70% of the UK population haven’t a clue about how fantastic the night sky above your very own head can be. Gaze into the darkness above, self reflect and imagine the unimaginable. Check out the official site for more information.
Camping
A campsite is planned to open in 2022 - please bookmark this page and we will include all the details on here once the site is running.
Wild camping however is permitted, so long as care is taken for the environment and the area is restored to its original state once packed up. For more information on the local wildlife, activities and rules during your stay you can also visit the Isle Of Gigha Ranger Service Facebook page which is also run by the Trust.
Beach View Cottage
We are pleased to announce we have our very first accommodation from the Island on the HolidayFox website. Sarah runs the Beach View Cottage and we are delighted to help the local community in providing a platform to showcase and write about the great community-led island that is the Isle Of Gigha!
Click here to have a look at Sarah’s cottage.
link: https://www.holidayfox.com/en/e/dest-AYDCCHb4q7ch/beach-view-cottage-isle-of-gigha
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