Make the most of your Hebridean island adventure...i love COLL

Make yourself at home...

Tigh na Mara offers you friendly Scottish Islandhospitality in a stunning seaside location within walking distance of the ferry pier.Whether you are looking for comfortable Bed & Breakfast or Self Cateringaccommodation on the Hebridean Isle of Coll, Paula and her team lookforward to making you feel at home.

We also offer Linen Hire for self catering visitors to the Isle of Coll.

BED & BREAKFAST AND SELF CATERING ACCOMMODATION ON THE ISLE OF COLL

T 01879 230354 E enquiries@tighnamara.info W www.tighnamara.info

Now you can slow down.What’s the rush?You’re on Co ll now.You’ve got time to unwind,you’ve escaped...

Leave the everyday behind and discover your own private paradise. Whether you are here on holiday, here on business (or even living here), there is time enough to explore.

From corncrakes to crannogs, beaches to basking sharks, stargazing to seafood, Coll’s offerings are vibrant and varied.

But take care, once you fall in love with this idyllic isle, its impossible to let go...

Welcome to Coll

Hogh Bay

BED & BREAKFAST AND SELF CATERING ACCOMMODATION ON THE ISLE OF COLL

Over the years, many visitors have fallen under Co ll’s spell and return time and time again. They are affectionately know as the summer swallows, friendly, familiar faces wanting to share their love of Co ll. Many of them are Co llachs, some are descendants, others are longtime friends who just can’t get enough of the place.There is plenty to keep you distracted over the summer months.As well as the Coll Show in August, there are two fishing competitions, ceilidhs, golf tournaments, beach football andthe Coll Half Marathon.

Nature lovers are spoilt with Coll’s abundance of wild flowers, orchids, rare birds and sealife. And Coll is also home to Hebridean sheep, Highland cattle and the largest herd of Eriskay ponies in the world.

Coll is an excellent place to bring children on holiday. There are lots of young families living on Coll, so plenty of wee Collachs to assist with building sand castles.

The majority of Coll’s population are incomers, however that means they have made a choice to live here. They take great pride in showing the island off to visitors. So, if you want to know something about Coll, just ask a friendly face, there’s plenty to choose from.

Flag Iris Yachts, Arinagour Red-breasted Merganser CrossapolFishing Competition Beach Football

i love summer

Beach Football

annual summer Events& ceilidhs on coll

In addition to various go lf, football and other events throughout the summer,

the fo llowing events take place each year...

Julyfishing competition

fishing dancebeach football

augustcoll show

(First Thursday in August)show dance

(First Friday in August)coll half marathon

& ceilidh(Third Saturday in August)

east end fishing competition

Unlike Tiree, the majority of Co ll’s beaches are a wee hike from the road. But af ter a stro ll over the machair you will be rewarded by unspoilt white sand, crystal clear turquoise seas and stunning views of the other Hebridean islands. There are no beaches near Arinagour, so day trippers may find it difficult to get the full flavour of Co ll without a long walk or a bike ride.

During the summer months, the gulf stream makes for pleasant swimming and Hogh Bay can provide good surfing. For the less aquatically adventurous, perhaps a spot of beachcombing, you never know what you might find...

What you won’t find are donkey rides, ice creams or kiss-me-quick hats. In fact, more often than not, you could find that you have the beach to yourself (apart from the seals curiously spying on you from the water). As well as seals, Cliad Bay is an excellent spot for otters and if you are an early riser you may be lucky enough to catch a glimpse of one. The waters around Coll are also a UK hotspot for spotting basking sharks.

And if the beach gets too busy? Well, just move on, there’s 23 to choose from...

North ShoreOld rope Beachcombing on Feall

i love beaches

Feall Bay

The hidden delightsof the beaches of Co ll

are some of the best kept secretsof all the Hebridean islands...

The RSPB manages 1074 hectares of typical Hebridean habitats, including long shell-sand beaches, sand dunes, machair (turf growing on a lime-rich ‘soil’ offinely ground seashell fragments), farmland and moorland.The reserve is a very special place, particularly in summer when you can listen to Corncrake, Skylarks and Lapwing, see and smell thousands of flowers, and admire wonderful views.

CorncrakesFrom May to August, the reserve is very important for the Corncrake. This is not only one of the rarest birds in Britain, but is also in danger of extinction worldwide. However, they have suffered badly from changes in farming practices – especially the shift to earlier cutting of hay and silage. Corncrakes arrive here in late April, after wintering in south-east Africa, and hide in tall vegetation before moving into meadows of tall grass later in the year. Because they nest on the ground and breed relatively late in the year, they cannot survive if their meadows are cut too early.

I love BIRDSRSPB ISLE OF COLL NATURE RESERVE

Heron Corncrake Waxwing

On this reserve the RSPB has been working with farmers to encourage corncrake-friendly farming methods. These include providing field corners with tall vegetation, cutting fields late after nesting, and cutting from the centre towards the edges so that corncrakes can escape to safety. Where these measures have been used on the reserve, corncrake numbers have dramatically risen from 10 calling males in 1992 to the highest ever number of 66 recorded in 2009.

VisitingThe reserve is always open, as is the visitor information room at Totronald Stables. To avoid disturbing corncrakes, please do not enter any fenced fields containing tall grass, and remember that dogs can cause real problems for ground-nesting birds and the livestock that maintain our habitats. Please park in the places provided and do not be tempted to drive across the machair.

This nature reserve is an important place for wildlife. RSPB Scotland welcomes responsible access, in line with the Scottish Outdoor Access Code. We hope you enjoy your visit.

Contact detailsFor more information, please contact: RSPB Isle of Coll Nature Reserve, Totronald, Isle of Coll, Argyll PA78 6TB.Tel: 01879 230301 | www.rspb.org.uk/scotland

Co ll has been inhabited since Meso lithic times, more than 6500 years ago . Standing stones, such as the mysteriously named ‘Na Sgeulachan’ (Teller of Tales) at Totronald, are Co ll’s earliest recorded monuments, dated c. 2500 BC.From the late Bronze Age, Coll’s inhabitants constructed island dwellings on inland lochs. Known as Crannogs, these artificial islands were lived on by successive generations over a period of centuries. Then, as now, a house with a loch view was a desirable residence, and the added protection of a bit of water between neighbours would have been, on occasion, useful.

Na SgeulachanThe Old Castle, BreachachadhBen Hogh

Crannog, Mill Lochs

i love heritage

Winter sunrise, Arinagour

Blow away the co bwebson a wintry morning stro ll...

The Wild, Wild West...If you want to witness Co ll at its wildest, a visit in the winter months is recommended. A good walk on a windy day really does clear the head, fo llowed by a relaxing warm by the fire, dram in hand.

COLL IS A DESIGNATED DARK SKIES ISLAND The light and the colours make for great photography this time of year. And the long, clear nights permit sightings of meteor showers, the Northern Lights or just good stargazing.

There are less tourists around over the winter months but Coll is still a sociable place to be. You will find Collachs in relaxed mood and finding much to celebrate, whether it be Hogmanay or a Burns’ Supper. And if you happen to be on Coll on such an occasion, you will be heartily encouraged to join in.

Winter WildlifeIn winter, Coll has important populations of Greenland White fronted Geese and Barnacle Geese as well as the Greylags. A flock of feral Snow Geese occur on the RSPB reserve and Long-tailed Duck, Scaup and Common Scoter can all occur in the bays. This is also an excellent time of year to see otters, hares and dramatic seascapes, just make sure you bring some windproof clothing...

Otter Hare

Feall Bay

Winter, Arinagour

i love winter** It very rarely snows on Coll but when it does, it really snows.

Scottish Natural Heritage are working with the peo ple on Co ll to protect the fragile eco logy of this unique island. Co ll is home to many rare species of flower such as Bloody Cranesbill and the Hebridean Spotted Orchid.Much of Coll’s abundance of rare species is due to the machair. Machair is a gaelic word for a fertile coastal grassland. On Coll, as with other islands on the West Coast of Britain, this grassland has become established by the influences of nature and humans. Lime rich shell sand blown from the beach falls upon the grassland, making the soil particularly fertile, relatively free draining, and the vegetation, species rich.

Grazing plays an integral part in maintaining a healthy machiar. Cattle and sheep graze (and rabbits and hares) upon the nutritious vegetation ensuring that it does not become rank, and that less competitive species are not lost from the sward. The diverse plant life, in association with the relatively low impact of grazing, ensures that these habitats are rich in many species, including plants, invertebrates, birds and mammals. Crofting communities also used to grow arable crops on these fertile areas, something which is not done as much these days.

Please visit www.snh.org/snhi for more information...

Bloody Cranesbill Hebridean Spotted Orchid

Bell heather

ECOLLOGY

Conservation on Coll• Coll is more fragile than it might look.• Please remember you may be walking on private land; it is courteous to ask permission to cross it.• Remember to leave gates as you find them. Please use the gates, and don’t climb over fences.• Keep dogs under close supervision, preferably on a lead. This can be a matter of life or death when amongst special wildlife and livestock. Take particular care to keep away from cows with calves, they can be very dangerous to both you and your dog.• Please do not approach seal pups. They may look abandoned, but their mothers are nearby.• Please don’t pick the flowers.

Driving on CollWhen driving on single track roads, please remember;

• Passing Places are marked with black and white poles or Passing Place signs.• When meeting an oncoming vehicle, if the passing place is on your left, pull in. If it is on your right, stop opposite so that the oncoming vehicle can pull in and allow you to proceed.• If you are driving slowly, please pull into the first passing place on your left to allow following vehicles to overtake.• Never park in a passing place, they are for passing, not parking.• Do not drive off road - it can harm wildlife and agricultural land.• Collachs are friendly - wave!

theLighthouse Gallery

Run Wild!Third Saturday ofevery August...Entry forms andmore info onour website.

www.collhalfmarathon.co.uk

I love BEACHCOMBINGOn the beach you can draw in the sand with a stick,go beachcombing and collect shells and bits of driftwoodto make a collage picture.

I love SAILINGIn the summer you can go sailing on Monday and Saturday afternoons in the village bay. You can also go kayaking.

I love FISHINGI like to go fishing at the Big Pier, you can buy fishing rods and tackle at the Post Office.

We asked the pupils of Arinagour Primary Schoo l what they love about Co ll...

I love CYCLINGYou can hire a bike from the Post Office to cycle round Coll and see birds, wildlife and other islands.

I love PLAYINGThe Play Park near the shop is fun. I like to play on the swings, roundabout and pirate ship.

I EVEN love RAINY DAYS!When its raining I like to get out my sketchbook and draw pictures of the wildlife on Coll.

What do you love about Coll?Why don’t you send a postcard to yourfriends to tell them...

Seal by Flora Young

We asked the pupils of Arinagour Primary Schoo l what they love about Co ll...

KAYAK HIRESingle sit in kayaks and double sit on kayaks are available for hire. Enjoy beautiful scenery and amazing wildlife including seals, all viewed from sea level as you kayak around the bay in Arinagour.

PERSONAL TRAINING& EXERCISE CLASSESIf you are visiting the Island and are keen to continue your mainland fitness regimen there are a range of exercise classes and sports clubs available throughout the year. Personal training and gym sessions are also available.

HEALTH & FITNESSRETREATSEnjoy a fully catered short break on the island with the focus being on healthy living. These breaks are ideal for anyone wanting to kick start a healthy living regimen or as a boost to an ongoing healthy lifestyle. In addition to health and fitness related workshops, enjoy a range of activities including cycling, beach walks and an Island tour.

SEASHORE CRAFTS & GIFTSTake home a memento from the island including driftwood mirrors, quirky driftwood wall hangings and key rings, sea shells and brightly coloured T-shirts.

| Shore Street | Arinagour | Isle of Coll Tel 01879 230436 Email carol.ann.flett@gmail.com

For Quality GiftsColl Hebridean Wool Products & Sheepskin Rugs

Island Knitwear | Coll Fleeces | T-ShirtsCOLL SOUVENIRS | Quality Leather Goods

Gold, Silver & Fashion Jewellery | CeramicsPaintings | Books | Toys | Sweets | Rock | Fishing Tackle

Full Post Office Services Stationary | Greetings Cards | PostcardsSTAMPS | Maps | Guidebooks | ATM MACHINE

Bicycle Hire Full Day Or Week (reduced rate)

Arinagour | Isle of Coll | Argyll | PA78 6SYTel / Fax 01879 230329 / 395 email info@anacarsaid.co.uk

Craft Shop Post Office

Open daily 9am - 1pm (closed sundays)

TIGH-AN-LOCHAN Cr o f t e r s C o t t a g e

Traditional stone built Croft housewith two b edrooms available for holiday lets.

Situated within minutes of stunningStruan Shore with stunning views towards

Rum, Eigg and Skye.

Tel 01879 230395 or email info@anacarsaid.co.uk

An Cridhe is the Isle of Coll’s community centre, opened by HRH Princess Anne in July 2012. An Cridhe means ‘the heart’, and the building is intended to be at the heart of life on Coll. It is a multi-purpose facility that caters for the many different needs of islanders and visitors. An Cridhe makes an excellent venue for a variety of events from meetings and conferences to weddings, parties and ceilidhs. If you’ve got an idea for an event or are interested in holding a function then please don’t hesitate to get in touch – our friendly staff are on hand to help. We are open from 9am to 9pm every day. Please come and visit us in the village and make use of the range of facilities including the sports hall, the gym, the reading room, WIFI and IT facilities, 24 hour showers, WCs and laundry, as well as a variety of regular classes and groups – all are welcome!

Tel 01879 230000 | www.ancridhe.com

Providing a centre for culture, interaction and warm hospitality to visitors and the local community on the Isle of Coll.

Whether you’re looking for an island adventureor a quiet place to relax, a warm welcome awaits!

Coll Bunkhouse is a five-star, purpose-built hostel situated in the centre of Arinagour, complete with fully equipped kitchen, hot showers, laundry facilities and a spacious lounge - the perfect place to come and relax! With 16 beds in two dorms of 6 and one room for 4 (which can also be booked as a twin or triple), the bunkhouse can accommodate groups, families or independent travellers. Facilities at the bunkhouse include:• Free WIFI throughout• A spacious lounge and dining area• A fully equipped guest kitchen• Laundry room with tumble dryer and hanging space• Accessible facilities for those with mobility difficulties• Safe and secure private lockers• Hire of sports facilities in An Cridhe (next door)

To book online or for further info including rates andgroup discounts, please visit www.collbunkhouse.comor call us on 01879 230217

CollBunkhouse @CollBunkhouse

Cooking Ingredients | Snacks & PicnicsScottish Beer & Wine | Teas & CoffeesEcologically Sound Cleaning Products

Loose Herbs & Spices | CheeseSpecial Diet Provisions

Opening Hours*Mon-Fri 10am - 1pm | Sat 10am - 5pm* Plus when Cafe is open (Closed Weds. in Winter)

ISLAND CAFEEat in or Takeaway | Licensed

T.E.S.CoThe Ethical Sales Company

‘HEBRIDES’Holiday Flat

THE FIRST PORT OF COLLFor Food & Drink, Takeaways, Cooking Ingredients, Ethical Shopping, Self Catering Accommodation & much more

Set up for seven (and an optional baby) Hebrides is self-contained,

airy and light with plenty of space.

For full details of all that the flat offers and its yearly availability look

at www.visitcoll.co.uk where much more information about all of

Coll can also be found.

All home made foodColl reared meat

Traditional Sunday RoastsBooking advisable Summer & Sundays

Opening HoursMon, Thurs, Fri, Sat

11am - 2pm & 5pm - 9pmSunday 12 - 6pm last orders.(Closed Tues & Weds all year round)

Tel 01879 230488/262 Email pyw1066@btinternet.com

THE FIRST PORT OF COLL

Visit our website for the menu, serving suggestions, farm news and blog... www.grishipo l.comor give us a call on 01879 230247 for more info .

An alternative to eating out - not an alternative to eating well!

Home Cooking from the Isle of Co ll...

Genuine home made meals, slow-cooked in small batches, using only Grishipol meat.Frozen in portions and packed in eco-friendly boxes.

Available to buy from Island Stores and Ethical Sales Company on Coll.

COLL PHOTOGRAPHICSLANDSCAPE, SEASCAPE AND MACRO PHOTOGRAPHY

The Gallery has a wide selection of framed printsavailable to buy. Every image has been taken hereon the Isle of Coll.

Clabbach Photo GalleryTigh na ClabbachIsle of Coll

(sign posted on road near Project Trust)

E collphotographics@gmail.comT 01879 230 050

Arinagour1

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An Cridhe& Coll Bunkhouse

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Church Coll Hotel

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RecyCOLL @ THE OLD HALL Clothes, Toys, Books, DVDs, CDs, Household Goods etc

MIDDLE PIER Cardboard Bank, Glass Bank

VILLAGE COMPOUND Tins & Cans Bank, Plastic Bottle Bank, Battery Bank, Tetrapaks, Bottle Tops and Lids, Newspaper Bank

CIVIC AMENITIES SITE Electrical & Automotive Items, Bulky Household Goods deemed unfit for re-use

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The Coll Recycling Group (RecyColl) was established as a voluntary group in 2006. The Group runs a range of community recycling, energy e�ciency and environmental projects on the island with premises in The Old Hall.

You are welcome to come and visit us at the Old Village Hall (number 1 on the map). Please check website for opening times.

RecyColl | The Old Village Hall | Arinagour | Isle of CollT 01879 230 051 E info@recycoll.org.uk W www.recycoll.org.uk

Visitors welcome!

Sailing from the Old PierMondays at 3.30pm | Saturdays at 3.00pm

Plus Evening Sessions** When weather suits and people are available,

check notice board on the boat trailer in the village.

£5 per person per sessionBuoyancy aids, safety helmets and tuition (if required)

is included, rescue boat cover is providedwith RYA qualified crew.

Sailing is weather and tide dependant.

CampingGarden Houseat

Small, isolated, well-sheltered campsite surrounded by the RSPB reserve.The walled garden is listed by Historic Scotland and makes a unique setting.

We are 5 miles from the ferry terminal. The walled garden has 20 pitches with electric hitch points and there are facilities for Motor Homes and caravans. The site has a wet room, water, toilet, chemical disposal point,microwave, fridge freezer, drying lines, BBQ area, seating & tables and lots of tourist information. We are 5 minutes walk from Breachacha beach and our Hebridean sheep are very visible in the adjoining fields.

For more information, please see the Visit Coll Website, or telephone Pat Graham for prices & booking conditions & any further information, on 01879 230 374 or e-mail : collcampsite@hotmail.com

DARK SKIES

Coll Hotel | Arinagour | Isle of Coll | Argyll | PA78 6SY Tel 01879 230334 Email info@collhotel.com www.collhotel.com

“If peace, quiet and an appreciation of the bestfrom nature’s larder are what you are in need of,

this could be your ideal island hotel.”Stewart Paterson | Sunday Herald

Coll Hotel makes the most of seasonal local produce when available, including fish and shellfish,Coll reared Highland Beef and Lamb, Coll eggs and salad and vegetables.

FREE WIFI | laundry service | shower facilities | camping gaz | calor gas | helipad

Regional finalist VisitScotlandthistle award Best hotel 2013

Certificate of excellencefrom Tripadvisor 2013 & 2014

Featured inthe Good Hotel Guide 2013/14

Scottish Island Hotel of the year2008 & 2009

Fall in love with the Hebridean island of Co ll. You will discover it has a charm unlike any other Sco ttish island.

From the tranquility of the seemingly endless summer days to the wilds of winter, Co ll invites you to make the most of your island adventure.

For up to date information, please visit

www.ilovecoll.co.ukBrochure designed on Coll by Ross Evans at www.ros.co | Photography by Tony Oliver at www.colldigital.co.uk | Additional photography by Ross Evans & Chloe Fraser Steele