Things to do on Coll

Welcome to the Isle of Coll, a hidden gem in the Inner Hebrides of Scotland, celebrated for its pristine landscapes and rich biodiversity. This tranquil island offers visitors a unique blend of natural beauty, wildlife encounters, and cultural immersion. From the untouched sandy beaches to the vibrant local festivals, Coll is a paradise for nature lovers, adventurers, and those seeking a peaceful retreat. In this guide, we’ll explore the top activities and attractions that make the Isle of Coll a must-visit destination. Whether you’re hiking to scenic viewpoints, spotting wildlife, or soaking in the local culture, Coll promises an unforgettable experience.

Isle of Coll Beaches

With 30 beaches to choose from, from small, scarcely visited coves to majestic wide sandy bays there is a beach for every occasion. Here are a few of our favourite Isle of Coll beaches.

Torastan’s machair-covered dunes give way to pristine white sand and scattered boulders on this idyllic beach (pictured) in the north-west side of the island. Great views of Eigg and Rum across the turquoise sea. Crossapol Bay is a horseshoe-shaped bay at the south of the island. To the north Feall Beach offers a spectacular mirror-image. Sheltered and beautiful Sorisdale Bay also offers great views of Ben More on the Isle of Mull. A short walk onto the north coast then takes you to the remote and wild beach of North Shorewhilst Cliad Bay on the east coast of Coll another series of dunes leading to a stunning beach with beautiful views of the Outer Hebrides.

Sorisdale Beach, Coll

Nature Walks, Hiking & Cycling

Hiking is a wonderful way to explore Coll’s rugged landscape, here are some of our favourites:

• Walk up Ben Hogh, the highest point on the island

Ben Hogh (106 metres) is the highest hill on Coll and provides sweeping views of the surrounding sea and islands. It can be ascended from Clabhah (GR NM1816 5874) on a 1.5 km circuit or can be included in a loop walk from Aringour. There are great views of Coll and the Outer Hebrides from the summit,  and nearby Clach na Ban-righ or Queen’s Stone. A small path leads to the summit through terrain that is wet in places with some rough heather ground.

Start at the cottages at Clabhach at a sharp bend in the B8071. Parking on the verge is possible without blocking gates and passing places. Pass through the gate on the left at the road bend at the west end of the village. Follow the grass track south towards Ben Hogh to the base of the hill. Climb the drystone wall via the stile then climb steeply on the path though the heather. Head towards the large erratic boulder, the Queen’s Stone, then on to the summit trig point a little further on. The true summit is slightly further to the southeast.

Return the same way.

The island also offers flatter, more leisurely trails that meander through wildflower meadows and along the coastline.

• Cycling on Coll

Coll’s quiet lanes make it a perfect cycling destination. For one of the more challenging routes try our round-island cycle route, check out the Islandeering tab.

Wildlife Watching 

The Isle of Coll is a haven for nature lovers, offering a rich tapestry of wildlife and natural beauty throughout the year. Here’s a closer look at some of the island’s highlights:

• Totronald RSPB Reserve

Located in the southwest corner of Coll, the Totronald RSPB Reserve is a prime spot for bird watching. It’s home to a variety of important wildlife, including the elusive corncrake, best spotted during warm spring or summer evenings. The reserve features a vibrant array of approximately 300 species of flowering plants and is possibly the best place in the UK to see the great yellow bumblebee. Visitors can also see large numbers of lapwings, redshanks, and snipe in the spring and summer, with winter bringing geese, merlins, hen harriers, divers, and long-tailed ducks.

• Marine Wildlife

Coll is renowned for its marine life, especially around Arinagour, part of the Hebridean Whale Trail. The island’s waters are frequented by basking sharks, and it’s a significant area for research into these creatures, which can be seen as early as May. Common and bottlenose dolphins, as well as otters, are regularly spotted, and the Minke whale, particularly a well-known individual named Knobble, is a common sight in the summer months. Visitors arriving by ferry are greeted by a replica whale bone arch at the terminal, celebrating the local marine life.

• Flora and Insects

The island’s flora, particularly the machair that lines its beaches, is a major draw. This area is rich in orchids and rare plants like Pipewort and Irish Lady’s-tresses. The Spotted Rock-rose, only recorded in Scotland on Coll, is among the notable species. For insect enthusiasts, Coll offers a chance to see some of Britain’s rarest insects, including the short-necked oil beetle, found in only a few places in the UK, and several of Britain’s rarest bumblebees, like the great yellow and red-shanked carder bees.

• Stargazing in Coll

Coll is the only Scottish island to have been awarded International Dark Sky Community status by the International Dark-Sky Association. Its naturally unpolluted starry sky, equivalent to Death Valley National Park in the USA, makes it perfect for stargazing. In December 2013, Coll was officially designated as a ‘Dark-Sky Community’ by the International Dark-Sky Association, on account of its dark sky and commitment to minimising light pollution. It was the first Dark Sky Community, and Island in Scotland. Each year the Cosmos Planetarium collaborate with Coll Bunkhouse to deliver an amazing stargazing course, Coll and the Cosmos. Over a two day course you’ll get practical hands on instruction in using telescopes and developing observing techniques – all led by expert astronomers. On cloudy nights there’s a fully digital immersive planetarium to ensure that you can continue your astronomical journey of discover. Star clusters like the ‘Beehive’ & ‘Double Cluster’, nebulae, the ‘Great Orion Nebula’, ‘Andromeda Galaxy’ and the bright band of the Milky Way can be seen with the naked eye, with the rings of Saturn and other far-flung planets experienced through the lens of one of the wide-range of astronomical equipment on offer.

Crossapol Bay

Cultural Experiences 

• Visit the Historical Sites

Explore the remnants of Breachacha Castle, which offers a glimpse into Scotland’s medieval past and serves as a picturesque ruin against the backdrop of the island’s natural scenery.

• Local Arts and Crafts

Coll is home to a vibrant community of artists and craftsmen. Visitors can explore local galleries or studios where they can purchase handmade jewellery, pottery, and other artisan crafts that reflect the island’s cultural heritage.

Community Events and Festivals 

• Coll of the Sharks Festival

This unique marine festival focuses on the conservation and observation of local shark species. It includes boat trips, talks, and activities designed to educate and engage visitors with the island’s marine biodiversity.

• Local Music Nights

Traditional Scottish ceilidhs and other music nights are regularly held, offering a lively and authentic way to experience Scottish folk music and dance with the locals.

Water Sports and Activities

• Kayaking and Sailing

The clear waters around Coll are ideal for kayaking and sailing, providing a peaceful yet exhilarating way to explore the island’s secluded coves and nearby islets. Calmac ferrys carry kayaks free of charge. With the right experience, or with a guide, it is possible to paddle over from Mull or the Treshnish Isles.

• Snorkelling and Diving

The marine life around Coll is vibrant and varied, offering exceptional snorkelling and diving experiences. The waters are home to a range of sea creatures from seals to an array of fish and seabed fauna, making every dive an adventure.

Local Cuisine 

While dining options on Coll are limited, they are deeply rooted in local tradition and ingredients. The island’s cafes and the hotel restaurant offer dishes that highlight fresh seafood and locally sourced produce. Visitors should not miss trying the local honey, renowned for its quality and unique flavour due to the island’s clean air and abundance of wildflowers. Local bakeries also offer freshly made breads and traditional Scottish pastries.

Best food on Coll