Coll is a small island in the Inner Hebrides. It’s low-lying and sits just a few miles to the north west of Mull. As there’s no higher ground to the west of Coll, it enjoys a drier climate than many of the other west coast islands.
The island is 13 miles long and has a population of around 170. There are many more people who have longstanding connections with the island who return year after year whenever time permits.
Arinagour, the island’s village, is centrally located and is just a short walk from the pier. Many of the island’s facilities are in the village.
Coll has numerous sandy beaches, backed by flower-rich machair. Most of the island’s beaches are tucked away and not visible from the road, so they are often surprisingly quiet even at the height of summer. The varied beaches offer an opportunity for walking, swimming and snorkelling, kayaking, fishing and wildlife-spotting.
Walking and cycling
Cycling and walking are a joy on Coll, with ever-changing views over the sea and surrounding islands. From various points on Coll it’s possible to see to Barra, the Uists and Harris, Canna, Rum Eigg and Skye, Mull, the Treshnish islands and (on a clear day) Jura, and much closer to hand, Tiree and Gunna are usually visible from the west end of the island. The interior of the island is heather moorland dotted with lochs, while the coastal fringes feature long white empty beaches.
Bikes can be hired from the Post Office, and electric bikes are available from An Cridhe, both in Arinagour.
Night skies
Coll is designated as a Dark Sky island with minimal light pollution and fantastic opportunities to star gaze on clear nights. Even in Arinagour the Milky Way and night stars are easily visible after dark. If you’re lucky you may also get a view of the Northern lights.
Birds and wildlife
Birds and wildlife are everywhere, with more than half the island under conservation protection. The RSPB have a nature reserve and information centre at the west end. From the tiny Hebridean wren to the majestic White-tailed eagle, from Arctic wild swans and geese in winter to African summer visitors like corncrakes and cuckoos, the diversity on Coll is astonishing.
Marine Protected Areas surround us on Coll, and there are often sightings of otters, seals, basking sharks, whales and dolphins. For an idea of the range of wildlife on the island, visit the Wildsmiths blog.
Coll’s history
The history of Coll and its people is easy to see as you explore the island. You’ll spot standing stones, crannogs, castles and lazy beds. The Viking place-names give another hint to our past.
The Coll History Society sometimes have displays available in An Cridhe with information on specific aspects of the island’s past
The Island Café and Coll Hotel
If you like to take time out enjoying locally sourced food, the Island Café and The Coll Hotel are both open for coffees, lunches and evening meals. Both have space to sit outside. The Coll Hotel also has a public bar with a pool table, dart board and TV
Saturday market
The market runs from 9am to midday on Saturdays through the summer season, and showcases varied items from local makers.
Shops
The Coll Stores in Arinagour stock a good selection of foods. There is also a Post Office/gift shop and second hand shop in the village. Many of the items for sale on the weekly market are also available from An Cridhe. Ross of Coll items are available direct from them 10-12 on weekday mornings, and Monadh Machair produce is also available direct from the sellers.
Internet access
An Cridhe, Coll’s community centre has access to free wifi every day, up until it shuts around 9pm. There is also wifi available at the hotel and cafe
Events
There are many regular events on Coll throughout the year, including a half marathon, Folk Festival (Coll Connections), a fishing competition, an annual pantomime, The Coll Show, Music Coll organised by the Tunnell Trust, and many more. You can find details of upcoming events on the Visit Coll What’s On page