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Credit: Matthew Willcocks

Isle of Coll

Scotland's Island Coast

The Isle of Coll is a small Hebridean island known for its white-sand beaches, mesmerising dark skies and rich wildlife. Located approximately four miles west of Mull, Coll stretches around 13 miles in length and 3 miles in width and is home to a community of around 160 people.

It's a perfect destination for those seeking a peaceful retreat where they can walk along the sandy shores, explore the diverse wildlife, and marvel at the stunning night sky.

Gaelic in Scotland

The indigenous language of Argyll contains a great richness of expression. Here we have shared a phrase from local Gaelic poetry about the Isle of Coll.

Mo dhùrachd bhlàth nunn don eilean àghmhor,
San robh mo chàirdean a' tàmh bho chian

My warm regards to the joyful island,
In which my kin have long dwelt.

Niall MacGillEathain

Gaelic with thanks to CHARTS

Top reasons to visit

Dark Skies

Water activities

Beaches and sea views

Boat trips

RSPB nature reserves

Hebridean whale trail

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Visit the Isle of Coll

The perfect place to unwind

Known for its designated Dark Sky Areas, white-sand beaches and vast variety of wildlife, the Isle of Coll is the perfect place to relax, explore and immerse yourself in island culture.

With some of the highest sunshine hours in the UK each year, taking a stroll on the secluded beaches or exploring the picturesque meadows and moors is a must-do. Not only is it highly recommended, but it would also be a shame to miss out on the diverse range of flora and fauna that call these areas home.

Located in the West of Coll is an RSPB reserve for bird watching with diverse species like corncrake and hen harrier. It's also an excellent spot for stargazing due to low light pollution.

Even on a rainy day, visitors can relax, read, or play sports at Coll's community center, An Cridhe, alongside the locals, who make everyone feel welcome.

Stargazing, Untouched Beaches & a Vibrant Community

Experience the Isle of Coll

COLL Credit Ewan Miles Nightscape Photography For Coll Dark Sky Group

Dark Skies Trail Credit Ewan Miles Nightscape Photography For Coll Dark Sky Group

Good to know!

Plan ahead to make the most of your visit.

Style: A dream for stargazers and wildlife enthusiasts, seeking tranquillity and a true Hebridean welcome.
Ferry: The ferry runs from Oban with a journey time of approximately 2 hours, 45 mins. On certain travel dates, it is also possible to reach Coll from the neighbouring Tiree with a journey time of 55 minutes. Foot passengers, cars and cyclists are welcome!
Ferry Tickets: We advise purchasing your tickets in advance via the CalMac website.
Hiring Bikes: You can explore the island using pedal power by renting a bike from the Post Office or borrowing one from your accommodation. Or bring your own bikes on the ferry. Spaces are limited, so book in advance!
Public Transport: While there is a petrol station available, there is no public transportation.
Parking: The stunning beaches are usually a 5-10 minute walk from the nearest car park.
Food & Drink: Coll Stores sells basic provisions and fresh fruit & veg. Coll Hotel and the Island Cafe are two great places for a bite to eat. We recommend to check their opening days and times vary, so it's best to check and book in advance.
Toilets: You can find public toilets at the Isle of Coll's Community Centre (entry by donation).
Stay: Limited accommodation is available. We recommend booking in advance.

Explore Coll

Discover places to stay, eat & drink and things to do on the Isle of Coll.

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Things to Do on Coll

From exploring the island’s beaches to heading out on the water and spending a night stargazing, Coll is a special place waiting to be discovered!

Coll's Dark Skies

Recognised as one of only two official Dark Sky Islands in the world, Coll has no street lights and, hence, minimal light pollution, meaning the stars shine with remarkable clarity. On a clear night, the Milky Way stretches overhead in dazzling detail, constellations are easily picked out, and shooting stars can often be spotted streaking across the black canvas.

Northern Lights on Coll

Coll’s northerly location also makes it one of the best places in Scotland to witness the magical aurora borealis. The Northern Lights, with their shimmering greens, purples and reds, occasionally ripple above the island, creating unforgettable moments for stargazers lucky enough to catch them. The best time to see them is between October to March.

Coll & the Cosmos

Every September, Coll hosts Coll & Cosmos, a weekend break dedicated to the wonders of astronomy. This friendly event brings together experts and enthusiasts for talks, guided observations, and practical workshops. Whether you’re a seasoned astronomer or simply curious about the stars, it’s the perfect way to deepen your appreciation of the night sky in one of Scotland’s most special settings.

Wildlife Watching on Coll

The island’s varied habitats, from sandy beaches and dunes to moorland and machair (Gaelic for low-level grassy plains), provide sanctuary for an incredible diversity of species, making it a haven for wildlife watchers of all kinds.

Birdwatching on Coll

The Isle of Coll has been home to a dedicated RSPB reserve since the 1980s. Today, Coll is home to 130+ bird species, including rare species such as the Corn Cake, which thrive here in greater numbers than almost anywhere else in the UK.

In spring and summer, the machair bursts into colourful wildflowers, providing nesting grounds for ground-nesting birds like Twite, Hen Harrier and Merlin. The island is also a vital stopover and wintering area for arctic breeders such as Pink-footed Goose, Greenland Greater White-fronted Goose and Barnacle Goose, Great Northern Diver, skuas, Purple Sandpiper, Ruddy Turnstone and godwits.

The reserve is based at Totronald, where you can also find a car park and visitor centre. So, pack your binoculars and look up!

Explore Coll's Beaches

Coll boasts some of the most unspoiled and spectacular beaches in Scotland. With over 30 (!) stunning sandy beaches scattered around its coastline, the island offers endless opportunities to explore a new stretch of sand each day.

Curious Coastal Castles

Visit Breacachadh Castles, two truly fascinating castles, located on the West end of the island. The original castle was built in the 15th century as a stronghold for the MacLeans, while right next door sits the 'new' castle, constructed in 1750. Both buildings are now private residences but you can get a great feel for them when viewing from outside.

Water Activities

The swell from the North Atlantic makes Coll a fantastic spot to go surfing, with waves suitable for all types of abilities. Ballyhough Beach is one of the best beaches on Coll for surfing!

Wild swimming, sailing and kayaking are other popular water activities on Coll. Just be aware that most of Coll's beaches are located a good stretch away from the nearest roads.

You can also join a guided tour around the island, from boat trips to guided kayak adventures and land-based wildlife tours – there are plenty of options!

Please remember the guidelines laid out in the Scottish Outdoor Access Code when exploring Coll's beaches & waters.

Shopping, Restaurants & Accommodation

Places to Eat & Stay on Coll

Coll may be remote, but its community is famously warm and welcoming, with plenty of ways to immerse yourself in island life. In Arinagour, the island’s only village, you find The Island Cafe, a great spot for a breakfast or afternoon treat. The Coll Hotel is the island's largest accommodation open all year round. Relax at their bar, coffee lounge, and restaurant overlooking a beautiful view of the garden and sea. Coll Bunkhouse is a brilliant budget-friendly accommodation on the island.

Coll Stores is the island's new refurbished convenience store, where you can find fresh fruit & veg, seafood and everyday essentials. The Post Office in Arinagour also sells souvenirs, maps and other local products. And if you want to try some local fish, pre-order your catch-of-the-day with Andrew of Robertson Seafood, a local ship that fishes sustainably.

Experience Island Life

The An Cridhe Community Centre is a great place to go on a rainy day, providing loads of interesting activities throughout the year. You can join in indoor football and hockey, use the fully equipped gym and drink cups of tea with some locals. On a Saturday morning, there is a local produce sale, which is great for jams, baking, jumpers, and cushions. During the Summer months, they organise Ceilidhs, music evenings and interesting lectures. Pop by to immerse yourself in Coll's welcoming island community!

How to get to Coll

Planning Your Visit

By Ferry

The Isle of Coll is best reached via the CalMac ferry from Oban. During the summer months, there is one sailing every day out of Oban to Coll. The total sailing time is approx. 2 hours, 45 mins. On certain travel dates, it is also possible to reach Coll from the neighbouring Tiree with an additional journey time of 55 mins.

The journey from Oban is pretty spectacular, gliding down the Sound of Mull past Tobermory and then Ardnamurchan Point (the most westerly tip of the UK’s mainland) before the short crossing in more open sea to Coll.

We recommend booking your ferry tickets well in advance as availability is limited. Also, confirm your sailing times ahead of your departure days as these can change due to weather conditions. You can bring your car and bike with you on the ferry. However, spaces are limited. Find out more here.

By Plane

Coll and Tiree can be reached by plane via Hebridean Air Services. This short flight from Oban is a special way to reach the island, although it is not a daily service. Pre-booking is essential. Find out more from Hebridean Air Services here.

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All you need to know about visiting Coll

Where to walk your dog on the Isle of Coll

The Hebridean Island of Coll is a fabulous place to explore with your four-legged walking companion. Here's here to walk your dog on the Isle of Coll.

5 Spots for Local Arts & Craft on the Isle of Coll

As you explore the Isle of Coll, make sure you find time to discover the island’s artists and craftspeople. Here are five that should be top of your list.