The Inner Hebridean Islands of Tiree, Coll and Mull on the west coast of Scotland are much easier to visit than most think! With direct bus and train services from Glasgow to Oban and frequent ferries from Oban to the Inner Hebrides Islands, its a great way to see some of the best Scotland has to offer. For more information on how to get there “Touring Scotland With No Car”.
The Inner Hebrides Islands and History
The islands history dates back to Neolithic times, then from the 6th century signs of pictish language and culture have been found. In later years signs of the Viking and Norse settlers and finally under Scots rule and the Clans.
The largest settlement is in the town of Tobermory on the Isle of Mull and the population of the Island being just under 3000. Tiree having a population of 700 and Coll with a population of 200. The smallest of the Inner Hebridean Islands is Rum at last count of having a population of only 22 people!
It is said that the Isle of Coll has more rental properties than fully occupied homes! With that said if your hiring a car on the mainland please book the Calmac Ferry in advance as space is limited!
Highlights
The Inner Hebrides Islands are a haven for bird watchers and nature lovers. With Coll and Tiree being home to Corncrake’s and I was surprised to see the numbers of Geese! I believe the three to watch out for are the pink-footed, Grey and Canadian Goose. During the summer months you can take a guided walk with the local RSBP on Coll .
The beaches are a pleasure to walk along and during the summer months the wildflower machairs are an array of colours. Truly spectacular!
Did you know that the Isle of Coll has also been awarded with the “ dark skies ” status. One of the best places in the U.K for stargazing .
Tiree is a hive of activity with water sports being a booming industry. Look out for Wild Diamond Watersports , Blackhouse Watersports and Tiree Kite Surf Academy. As well as the water sports a must see is the Skerryvore Lighthouse Museum and Treshnish Isle Exhibition .
On Mull there is lots to see and do! If like me you only have a few days I would recommend being based in Tobermory. There are lovely walks to explore, boat trips to see the White Tailed Sea Eagles, Porpoise, Seals and during the month of August Basking Sharks! Its an idyllic place to eat, shop and stay also if you fancy a wee tipple don’t miss the Tobermory Distillery .
The Inner Hebrides islands can be as expensive or inexpensive as your budget allows with small hotels located in prime spots including rooms with sea facing views or wild camping is a great way to emerge yourself with the sights, sounds and smells of nature! The sheep seem to get around everywhere on the Isle of Coll. Hosteling is another great way to meet people and share experiences on the islands. A great place to be based on the Isle of Tiree is The Millhouse Hostel, located by the Old Mill not just shrouded in history but many a possibility for wildlife spotting. Keep a lookout for the otters that play in the wheel pool pond and you may even spot a famous visitor at one hostel!
There are a number of events taking place throughout the year on the islands such as music festivals, Kite Surfing Competitions, and coastal Rowing Regattas. Although it can take some time to prepare a trip, I would highly recommend booking accommodation in advance!
As always we would love to hear from you! Have you been island hopping in Scotland? Exploring the Caribbean like beaches? or maybe you have been competing in one of the many water sport competitions? Please drop us a comment/question below. Happy Travels x
