Isle of Coll

Coll, a small island community only three hours by ferry from Oban and with a population of around 200 people. The main village is Arinagour where there is first-class accommodation from hotels and bed and breakfasts to self-catering and hostels. The ferry service runs from Oban from Monday to Saturday (except Thursdays) to Coll and Tiree. Winter timetables may have fewer sailings.

CalMac also operates a day cruise from Oban in association with Coll Taxis. This package is available Sundays, Mondays and Thursdays from June until September, and includes the ferry and a guided tour of the island. You can fly to the neighbouring island of Tiree from Glasgow most days. After that, you need to get the ferry over to Coll. Popular activities on the island include walking on the deserted beaches, bird-watching, cycling and camping.

The island was once home to author, Mairi Hedderwick, and the fictional island of Struay in her Katie Morag children’s books is based on her experiences of living on Coll.