Inner Hebrides Unhurried: A Slow Week on Coll & Tiree
7 days / 6 nights Island-Hopping ItineraryThis itinerary isn’t about ticking off sights but about settling in and truly experiencing the unique spirit of the Inner Hebrides. Spend your days listening to the waves, learning a new bird call and sharing a story with a local over a wee dram.
Starting in Oban, you will board the ferry to the 'Sunshine Isle' of Tiree. Spend a few days surfing, swimming and exploring the island's unspoilt beaches before hopping on another ferry to Coll.
Known for its wildlife, beaches and dark skies, Coll is the perfect place to enjoy the tranquillity of Hebridean life. Whether you spend your days strolling along the beach or chatting with the locals, you will leave this wee isle wishing for more days! Ending in Oban, stay for a few more days to explore Oban and the surrounding isles.
Why not leave your car behind and explore these Hebridean gems at a slower pace?
A Memorable Train Journey to Oban
Day 1 – Arrive in ObanFrom Glasgow Queen Street station, take the Highland Explorer train for a slower, scenic journey to Oban (approximately 3 hours). You can even bring your bikes with you! We advise reserving bicycle spaces when purchasing your ticket in advance.
You will pass through the small villages and towns on the Clyde before venturing further into the Scottish Highlands, with stunning panoramic views of the Gare Loch, Loch Lomond and Loch Awe. Approaching Arrochar, look left for great views of the celebrated ‘Arrochar Alps’, including such craggy peaks as the Beinn Narnain, Beinn Ime and the well-loved Cobbler.
The line then takes you through beautiful Glen Lochy to Dalmally, where you roll past the ruins of Kilchurn Castle, ancient stronghold of Clan Campbell. Around the head of Loch Awe is the Pass of Brander, which skirts the towering bulk of Ben Cruachan – the Hollow Mountain, which houses an innovative hydro power scheme inside.
Nearing Oban now and approaching Connel Ferry, you can see the Falls of Lora, a tidal race at the narrow entrance to Loch Etive. This natural occurrence, caused by a fast-moving tide, produces white rapids that can last for up to five days. Your final stop on this section of the Line is Oban, Scotland’s Seafood Capital. Spend your afternoon exploring this bustling seaside town!
Oban Explorations
Day 2 – Free Day in ObanThe fishing port of Oban, known as ‘Scotland’s Seafood Capital’, is full of life with ferries to the Hebrides coming and going, bars and streets packed with shops, and plenty of things to see & do.
Here are a few of our top recommendations for your free day in Oban:
Begin with a stroll to Dunollie Castle & Museum for sweeping vistas over the bay and an insight into the MacDougall clan’s thousand-year history.
Returning to town, tour the Oban Distillery, one of Scotland's oldest sources of Single Malt Scotch Whisky. Or frequent one of Oban’s many pubs and restaurants to sample a dram or two. Ooshka Bar also offers whisky tasting experiences for those wanting to sample a wide range of local spirits.
If you’d like to tick even more islands off your list, join West Coast Tours' Three-Isles trip. This fully guided tour takes you to Mull, Iona and Staffa. Depending on the season, you even get to spot some puffins!
Alternatively, head to the lesser-known Isle of Lismore with Explore Lismore. Husband and wife team Robert & Iris offer bespoke tours by Land Rover, highlighting the island's spectacular scenery, rich heritage, and close-knit community. Their one-of-a-kind Shepherding Experience with local shepherd Arthur and his collies Misty & Tam is not to be missed!
One of the best ways to experience the coastline of Oban & Lorn is to take a boat trip. Join Coastal Connection for a sailing trip or Seafari Adventures or Sealife Adventures for a wildlife watching boat trip – including a visit to the Corryvreckan whirlpool – or Basking Shark Scotland for their Puffin & Seabird tour to visit the puffins on Lunga. Alternatively, you could join Seakayak Oban or Wild Isles Sea Kayaking for a guided kayaking expedition to explore the hidden corners of our coastline!
On top of boat trips, Basking Shark Scotland also offers a range of snorkelling and wildlife watching day trips for all abilities. Join their Experience Snorkelling (3hrs) for a beginner-friendly exploration of Argyll Snorkel Trail or their full-day Seal & Lagoon tour to visit the seals at the dreamy lagoon-like location and swim amongst the kelp forests.
Round off your day with a seafood dinner in one of the many renowned restaurants in Oban. The dinner might even be accompanied by a stunning West Coast sunset. If you’re planning a more romantic dinner, pack a picnic and head to Ganavan Sands, a beautiful beach near Oban!
Good to Know!
Plan Your Visit to Oban- Book train tickets well in advance, especially in summer.
- Book your accommodation in advance, especially during the summer months.
- Driving to Oban instead? The traditional route is by car via the A82 with plenty of great stops along the way!
- Stay longer: Oban is a fantastic base to explore the surrounding Isles, such as Lismore, Kerrera, Mull, Iona and the Slate Isles. So, why not extend your trip with a few nights in Oban?
Where to Stay in Oban
Discover Scotland's Seafood CapitalThe accommodations below are brilliant for those taking the train to Oban and looking for a place to stay within walking distance from the train station:
Off to the 'Hawaii of the North'
Day 3 – Journey to TireeBoard the early morning CalMac ferry from Oban for the scenic journey to Tiree, watching the sea sparkle as you pass by Coll. You’ll dock in Scarinish mid-morning, just in time to fuel up for the day. Enjoy a fresh seafood lunch at the Stoirm Restaurant in the Scarinish Beach Hotel, or grab a locally roasted coffee at Hebridean Roast for a lighter start. After lunch, hire bikes from Tiree Fitness or Blackhouse Watersports. The island’s flat, open roads make for relaxed riding with Atlantic views in every direction. We recommend booking your bikes well in advance, as availability is limited, especially during the summer months.
Spend your afternoon exploring the island’s legendary beaches. Balevullin Beach is ideal for a taste of adventure. Book a surfing or kitesurfing lesson with Blackhouse Watersports and feel the thrill of Tiree’s wind in your hair. Open 7 days a week during the summer season. You can also hire canoes and bikes!
Prefer something slower-paced? Head to Gott Bay for a long, romantic walk on wide sands with turquoise water lapping at your feet. Wildlife lovers can keep an eye out for seals and seabirds, with the occasional glimpse of an otter if you’re lucky.
As the day winds down, make your way to the Alan Stevenson House Restaurant for dinner, savouring local seafood, lamb, and hearty vegetarian dishes. Afterwards, wander down to the shore for one of Tiree’s famous sunsets before retiring to your accommodation.
Exploring ‘the land below the waves’
Day 4 – Free Day on TireeBegin your day with a hearty breakfast at your accommodation before heading to Scarinish Pier for a wildlife boat tour with Tiree Sea Tours. Captains Chris and Frazer will take you out to spot dolphins, puffins, and seabird colonies, as well as explore coastal gems such as Fingal’s Cave. For the full adventure, join their full-day trip for a chance to spot whales, basking shark and much more!
Back on land, take a gentle cycle or walk to the Isle of Tiree Distillery, the island’s only distillery, for a tour and tasting. They often run special events with local restaurants.
In the afternoon, head on a ride along Balinoe Beach with Tiree Equestrian. Whether you’re a seasoned rider or a complete beginner, the combination of soft sand, rolling waves, and almost-deserted shores makes this an unforgettable experience. Alternatively, dive into the island’s history at the Skerryvore Lighthouse Museum and the heritage centres at Scarinish and Hynish, where stories, relics, and maritime history bring Tiree’s past to life. Or simply do nothing…
For your final evening, return to the Stoirm Restaurant for a last taste of island hospitality or pick up some bits at the island’s supermarket for a romantic beach picnic, completed with stargazing. The lack of light pollution here means the Milky Way often puts on a dazzling display above the Atlantic horizon.
Good to Know!
Plan Your Visit to Tiree- Book ferry tickets well in advance, especially in summer.
- Best travel days: Mon, Wed, Thu, Sat, Sun for morning arrivals.
- Tiree is sunny and mild but famously windy. So, pack windproof layers!
- Due to its strong winds, there are almost no midges in summer. A rare Scottish blessing!
- Flat terrain makes cycling ideal. Book bike hire before you arrive. Just be aware it can be quite windy at times!
- There is no conventional bus or taxi service on Tiree. However, you can book a private hire by contacting John Kennedy Transport on 07789551959 or info@johnkennedytransport.co.uk
- Bring cash for honesty boxes and small local businesses.
Where to Stay on Tiree
Discover Hebridean Hospitality- Alan Stevenson House – Comfortable rooms and a great restaurant, set in a historic building.
- Scarinish Beach Hotel – Central location, sea views, and in-house dining.
- Mannal House B&B – Enjoy a Hebridean welcome from Alison and David ast this 150 year olf house with rich maritime and crofting history.
- Kirkapol Beach Apartment & Pods (self-catering) – Ideal for a romantic stay with spectacular sea views.
- Cnoc Bhiosta (self-catering) – Stay in a traditional thatched cottage with very thick stone walls.
Discover more places to stay on the Visit Tiree website.
Respect, Protect & Enjoy!
Have a great time. Be a great visitor.Argyll & the Isles is the perfect place for a holiday full of adventure, great scenery and vibrant culture – let's keep it that way!
We all need to take steps to look after each other, as well as our beautiful coast and countryside. Here are some practical things you can do while travelling around the area.
Hopping over to Coll
Day 4 – Journey to CollDepart Tiree on the short ferry to Coll (approx. 1 hour). You’ll arrive in Arinagour, the island’s main village. From here, it’s only a short cycle to your accommodation!
After settling in, stretch your legs during a walk on one of Coll’s beautiful beaches. Crossapol Beach is fantastic for a longer stroll, whereas nearby Breacachadh Beach is great for wild swimming and watersports. Wander back into Arinagour for lunch at the Coll Hotel, where the menu brims with freshly landed lobster, scallops, and langoustine.
In the afternoon, hire bikes from the post office and pedal along quiet roads and sandy tracks. You could take the circular route behind Hough Bay, linking the RSPB Reserve at Totronald with the Hebridean Centre, a peaceful ride with a good chance of spotting corncrakes, hen harriers, and other birdlife. As evening falls, return to the Coll Hotel for dinner, then step outside to one of the island’s Dark Sky viewing points to marvel at a star-strewn canopy that feels almost touchable.
Good to know: We recommend checking your ferry sailing schedule in advance, as it is not guaranteed that every sailing stops at Coll due to weather conditions and schedule adjustments. Visit the CalMac website to check your sailing.
Be in Awe of Coll
Day 6 – Free Day on CollAfter a slow breakfast, lace up your walking shoes for the 8-mile west coast loop, a route that strings together some of Coll’s most beautiful beaches. Starting at Crossapol, you’ll wander through colourful machair to Feall Bay, climb Ben Feall for sweeping views over the Hebrides, then trace the shoreline to Calgary Point before looping back. If you prefer a gentler day, try snorkelling at Struan Beach, a sheltered bay alive with marine life.
For couples who love the idea of simply stopping, Coll also rewards doing nothing at all. Find your own patch of sand, bring a book, a bottle of wine, and just be. On this island, the pace of life is dictated by tides, not clocks.
Your final evening is best spent back at the Coll Hotel, where you can toast your trip over a locally inspired meal. Afterwards, take one last wander down to the shore. On clear nights, the Milky Way spills across the sky, and the gentle hush of waves will see you into your last island sleep before returning to Oban in the morning.
Day 7: Returning to Oban
Catch the ferry in the morning back to Oban. You will arrive in Oban in the early afternoon, allowing you to either continue your travel back to Glasgow via train or spend another evening in Oban.
Good to Know!
Plan Your Visit to Coll- We advise booking your ferry from Tiree in advance, especially in summer. Visit CalMac for more information.
- Always confirm sailing times ahead of your day of travel via the Calmac website, as these can change due to weather conditions.
- Bikes travel free on CalMac ferries, but space is limited. Reserve ahead.
- Coll’s quiet roads and sandy tracks are ideal for cycling; consider the Hough Bay–RSPB loop.
- Weather can change quickly, so pack windproof layers even in summer.
- The island is best enjoyed at a slow pace. Factor in “do nothing” time.
- Bring binoculars for bird and wildlife watching.
- The Dark Sky designation makes Coll one of the best stargazing spots in Europe.
- Coll Hotel is the island’s main restaurant, so book dinners early.
Where to Stay on Coll
Discover Hebridean Hospitality- Coll Bunkhouse – A budget-friendly, 5-star rated hostel located in Arinagour village, offering bunk beds and private rooms.
- Coll Hotel – The island’s main hotel and restaurant, which stays open all year round!
- Self-catering options – Choose from various properties across the island, from romantic cottages by the sea to more centrally located houses. More here.
- Garden House Camping – This small, tranquil, and well-sheltered campsite, surrounded by the RSPB reserve, is the perfect spot for those seeking a camping escape.
The seaside town of Oban is a great place for a holiday with much to see and do in the wider area and nearby Inner Hebridean islands.
Discover a range of fantastic places to eat 7 drink in Oban and the Inner Hebrides. Why not bring the taste of Argyll home with you? Purchase from one of our many local producers and experience Scotland's natural larder at home.
Find your place to stay from luxury hotels for a relaxing retreat to holiday parks and self catering options for adventure seekers, and everything in-between.
