Discover the Isle of Coll

The Isle of Coll combines an expansive coastline with opportunities to observe nature, historic sites and an especially dark night sky. More than 20 beaches define the island. Walking, cycling and Coll’s history also offer different starting points for planning your trip.

Beaches and Coastal Paths

Coll Nature Reserve offers a walk along a pale, shell-coloured beach. There are two designated parking areas in the reserve: one by the Totronald Information Room and the other at the opposite end. As parking arrangements may change, check local information before your visit.

Breachacha Beach is easily reached from a small car park at the end of the road to the castles; road and parking conditions may change. The beach is also a starting or finishing point for a coastal circular walk to Port na Luing. Assess the coastal conditions locally before setting off. This lets you consider a short beach visit and a longer walk as different options, without conflating the two.

Nature and Starry Skies

In the Coll Machair area, Loch Ballyhaugh is home to a large population of slender naiad (Najas flexilis). The island’s sparse population and geographical remoteness help make Coll’s night sky one of the darkest in Scotland. RSPB Totronald, Cliad football pitch and Arinagour are designated spots for stargazing. Local arrangements at these sites may change.

The island also suits travellers who want to spend time beyond the coast: a walk in the nature reserve and a view of the night sky offer two different sides of the landscape. If observing nature is your priority, Loch Ballyhaugh is a specific place where you can see Coll’s distinctive plant life.

Walking, Cycling and Getting There

Walking is possible across much of the island, including to remote beaches and wilderness areas. Follow local guidance on land management. For cyclists, a sandy track behind Hough Bay connects the RSPB Centre at Totronald with the Hebridean Centre; vehicles are not permitted on the track. Bicycles can be hired at the Post Office and e-bikes at the community centre. As local hire options may change, check what is available in advance.

Coll’s roads are single-track with passing places; driving conditions depend on the weather. There is no public transport on the island. As local transport provision may change, check before travelling. You can reach Coll by ferry from Oban, which arrives in Arinagour. Check the timetable in advance. The Coll Airstrip is at the western end of the island; you should also check flight availability before travelling.

History and Culture on Coll

Breacachadh Castle was the site of a battle in 1590 between the Macleans of Duart and the Macleans of Coll. Back Breachacha Castle is a separate historic landmark: built in 1750, it combines the original Georgian style with the Victorian Baronial style. Coll Parish Church has stood on the hill above Arinagour since 1907.

The island is also connected with literature. Author and illustrator Mairi Hedderwick’s experiences on Coll inspired the fictional Isle of Struay, the setting for the children’s book series Katie Morag. Along with the castles and church, this connection offers another perspective on Coll—alongside its coast, paths and nature.

Discover more destinations: Isle Of Mull, Kilchoan, Cairndow, Saint Catherines, Cardross, Tobermory, Isle of Gigha, Lochgoilhead

For the broader travel guide: Argyll And Bute.