Isle of Colonsay

Scotland's Adventure Coast

Set between Mull and Islay, the Isle of Colonsay combines sandy beaches, wildlife, walking and a strong island community in a compact setting. Use this guide to plan your ferry, stay and things to do in Colonsay, including the tidal walk to Oronsay. This small island measures just 10 by 2 miles, yet boasts stunning sandy beaches, breathtaking sea views, one of the finest quasi-tropical gardens in Scotland and a treasure trove of flora and fauna, so pack your binoculars.

The neighbouring island of Oronsay is accessible at low tide. Evidence of human activity on Colonsay and Oronsay dates back to the Mesolithic period. Oronsay’s shell middens and medieval priory offer glimpses into different periods of the islands’ history.

Gaelic in Scotland

The indigenous language of Argyll is rich in expression. Here we have shared a phrase from local Gaelic poetry about the Isle of Colonsay.

Eilean àlainn snàmh san iar (A beautiful island floats in the west)

Àilleagan gu bràth nam chridhe (Jewel in my heart forever)

Domhall MacNéill

Gaelic with thanks to CHARTS

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Top reasons to visit Colonsay

White sand beaches and a warm island welcome

Hill walking

Cycling

Brewery

Distillery

Beaches

Standup Paddle Boarding

Why visit the Isle of Colonsay?

White sand beaches & an Island Welcome

Colonsay’s craggy, heather-backed hills support a bewildering array of plant and birdlife, wild goats and rabbits, and one of Scotland’s finest quasi-tropical gardens. The island offers a vast diversity of flora and fauna, with over 100 bird species to spot, including the rare chough and corncrake.

Kiloran Bay stands out as one of the most stunning beaches in Scotland. Its breathtaking horseshoe-shaped expanse is the perfect spot for a long beach stroll, with sweeping views all the way to the Isle of Jura. It’s also a popular spot for windsurfers!

Colonsay may have the most diverse flora in the Inner Hebrides, with some 500 species. In spring, swathes of bluebells and primroses appear, whilst summer brings heath orchids, wild roses, honeysuckle, fuchsia, yellow irises and heather.

What makes Colonsay truly special is its authentic character. The island’s residents guarantee a friendly welcome and are happy to share local history, beauty spots, and brilliant craftsmanship. It is a working island community where visitors can experience real Hebridean life, far away from crowds.

Enjoy a Hebridean Island Adventure

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Good to know!

Plan ahead to make the most of your visit.

Style: Colonsay rewards those who embrace island time. There’s no rush here – take time to chat with locals, linger on beaches, and enjoy the peace.
Ferry: CalMac operates services between Oban and Colonsay year-round, with additional connections to Islay during parts of the summer timetable. Sailing days and routes vary, so check the current CalMac timetable before planning your journey.
Motorhomes & Caravans: Campervans/Motorhomes/Caravans: these may be allowed on Colonsay, but only if you contact Colonsay Estate on 01951 200211 before you travel.
Best time to visit: May to September offers the warmest weather and longest days, with wildflowers at their peak. Spring and autumn offer excellent birdwatching, while winter brings solitude and dramatic Atlantic storms.
Weather preparation: Pack layers and waterproofs year-round. Hebridean weather can change rapidly, but clear spells offer exceptional visibility and stunning light.
Accommodation: Book well in advance, especially for summer visits. Options include the Colonsay Hotel, self-catering cottages, and B&Bs, with some properties offering stunning sea views.
Facilities & Fuel: Scalasaig has a shop, post office, and the Colonsay Hotel. The Pantry offers local produce and artisan goods. The community filling station currently operates during staffed hours and accepts cards, not cash.
Mobile signal: Coverage is limited across much of the island. Embrace the digital detox and enjoy being truly disconnected.
Tidal crossing to Oronsay: Oronsay is accessible across the Strand for a limited period around low water. Check the day’s safe crossing times locally before setting out and return before the tide comes in. The walk to the priory is around two miles each way, so allow enough time for the full visit.
Wildlife watching: Keep a respectful distance from all wildlife, especially nesting birds and seals. Never approach seal colonies closely or disturb ground-nesting birds, such as corncrakes.

Explore Colonsay

Discover places to stay, eat & drink and things to do on the isle of Colonsay.

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Things to Do on Colonsay

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

Wildlife Watching

Wildlife watching represents one of Colonsay’s greatest draws. The island’s west coast forms a sharp escarpment that provides homes for hundreds of seabirds, including kittiwakes, cormorants, and guillemots in spring and early summer, while wild goats, choughs, and even golden eagles can be spotted.

The peaceful Ardskenish peninsula in the southwest is an excellent place to see seals and other wildlife. Coastal walks offer chances to spot otters hunting along shorelines and to explore the island’s fascinating geology.

Spending Time Outside

Walking on Colonsay

Walking and hillbagging enthusiasts can tackle the MacPhies of Colonsay. A MacPhie is defined as any point over 300 feet on the islands. The 22 MacPhies form a demanding challenge of more than 20 miles over often rugged, pathless ground. One summit is on Oronsay, so completing the full route also depends on safe tidal access. The highest peak is Carnan Eoin at 143 metres, offering spectacular summit views. Scenic trails wind along the coastline, revealing hidden beaches, dramatic cliffs, and abundant wildlife.

Discover Oronsay

Exploring Oronsay at low tide creates a magical experience. The Strand separates Colonsay from Oronsay, allowing you to walk across the sand to explore the medieval priory ruins in a nature reserve famous for its birdlife and resident seal population. Explore the ruins of Oronsay’s 14th-century Augustinian priory, including its carved stones and medieval grave slabs.

Explore Colonsay's Beaches

Colonsay’s beaches have been named as some of the best in the world! So, whether you’re heading on a stroll, going for a dip or packing a picnic, you will not be disappointed! Here are the key beaches to visit: Kiloran, Balnahard, Machrins, Cable Bay, Garvard, Oransay, South East corner.

Kiloran Bay

This is the island’s most famous beach – and for good reasons! Kiloran Bay is Colonsay’s longest beach and one of the island’s few beaches with surf. It is also easy to reach by road. Alternatively, head on a long walk or play some beach cricket! You can reach Kiloran Bay from the road, making it a great option when travelling with children.

Balnahard Bay

Easily reached on foot (45 mins) or by bike (20 mins) from Kiloran Bay, this beach boasts beautiful views towards Mull, Scarba and Jura and is often a little less busy. The perfect spot for a picnic!

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

Experience Island Life

Places to Eat & Drink on Colonsay

The Colonsay Hotel restaurant and bar is a popular spot with locals and visitors alike. With its open fires, traditional floorboards, comfortable sofas, and freshly sourced dishes, it’s a brilliant place to spend a few hours. The Colonsay House Gardens Café is open from April to October and serves a selection of delicious lunches on its scenic sun terrace. Wild Thyme Spirits offers guided tours around the local gin distillery, whilst the Colonsay Pantry sells Wildflower Honey, produced by the island’s protected Native Black Bees.

The Colonsay Heritage Centre is a fantastic place to learn more about Colonsay’s history. It exhibits an evolving display of artefacts and photographs as well as special exhibitions. You can find it at the Baptist church in Kilchattan. Weekly events vary through the season. Sunday Sessions feature ceilidhs and a community bar at the Village Hall, while quiz nights take place separately at the hotel. Check the current events programme before visiting.

Background image - Colonsay Beach Sarah Hobhouse Portrait

How to get to Colonsay

Planning Your Visit

By Ferry

Colonsay is served daily in summer and three times weekly in winter by CalMac ferries from the mainland port of Oban, with an additional summer service from Kennacraig via Islay. The ferry terminal is at Scalasaig, where the old waiting room now serves as a gallery and visitor centre, usually open when the ferry docks. Advance booking is recommended, particularly for vehicles during peak season. Book your ferry tickets here.

The Oban to Colonsay crossing takes approximately 2 hours and 20 minutes, offering spectacular views of neighbouring islands and the chance to spot marine wildlife, including dolphins, porpoises, and seabirds.

By Plane

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

Must Visit Places

ISLAY

Whether you're a whisky connoisseur or are seeking an active break for the whole family, the 'Queen of the Hebrides' has an adventure in store for everyone!

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JURA

The mountainous, wild and sparsely populated island of Jura has a rugged and remote appeal. Spend your days hiking, wildlife watching and enjoying the unique island spirit on Scotland's Deer Island.

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OBAN, LORN & ISLES

The seaside town of Oban is an excellent place for a holiday with much to see and do in the wider area and nearby Inner Hebridean islands.

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MV Finlaggan And MV Isle Of Mull In Oban Bay

All you need to know about visiting Colonsay

Background image - Colonsay Sarah Hobhouse

5 ways to escape from it all on Colonsay!

Colonsay has wildlife, sandy beaches with caves, fascinating archeology and a historic garden. At night enjoy stargazing or beers from Colonsay brewery.

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10 ways to experience the natural wonders of Colonsay

The beautiful Hebridean island of Colonsay is tiny but it will wow you with its wildlife. Here are ten ways to experience the natural wonders of Colonsay.

Your guide to an active holiday on the Isle of Colonsay

If you’re looking for an active family holiday in a stunning island setting, you can’t beat the Isle of Colonsay. Here is your guide to an active break.