4 minute read
Gigha
THE ISLE OF GIGHA
Situated west of the Kintyre peninsula, the Isle of Gigha is just minutes by ferry from the mainland, but its gentle landscape, spectacular floral displays and mild climate mean that it can feel much further away.
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The ancestral home of Clan MacNeill, this island is just seven miles long and its main settlement, Ardminish, can be easily accessed from Tayinloan. Its attractions include shop, hotel and restaurant, as well as plenty of scenic picnic spots within reach on foot or bicycle.
The island’s most celebrated destination is Achamore Gardens, a 54acre estate bursting with remarkable trees and shrubs, which is particularly known for the blaze of spring colour created by its combination of rhododendron, azaleas and camelias – plants that thrive in the mild and fertile setting. Created shortly after the Second World War by the island’s former laird, hot drinks magnate Sir James Horlick, the gardens are being rejuvenated this year by a new, all-female team of gardeners.
Today, the entire island is owned by its community, who are known as Gighachs. They took it over from its last private owner in 2002, and have since worked together through the Isle of Gigha Heritage Trust, to ensure both its preservation and development.
With the 20th anniversary of the takeover approaching, work is under way on improving island assets such as footpaths and cycle trails, a task spearheaded by the Ranger service, which also seeks to celebrate its wildlife and hosts walks and events which encourage an appreciation of the natural world. Keeping a watchful eye on Gigha are the Bodach and Cailleach (old man and old woman) an ancient pair of stones at the southern end.
Historic attractions also include the exquisitely set ruins of the 13th-century Kilchattan church. A stone’s throw from Gigha is the tiny, mystical island of Cara, where you can find a rock formation known as the Broonie’s Chair. Sit in the chair and it is said that the spirit of ‘the Broonie’ will grant your secret wish.
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top things to see, do and experience
dIstIllERIEs Campbeltown is home to three whisky distilleries – Springbank, Glen Scotia and Glengyle. All offer tours and tastings, and the Kintyre Gin distillery, on Torrisdale Castle Estate, is open to visitors and have a gin school and cafe
taRbERt FEstIvals The small fishing village of Tarbert is a cultural hub, hosting annual festivals including a book festival, seafood festival, music festival and the Scottish Series yachting event.
www.tarbertfestivals.co.uk
davaaR Island This tidal island is linked to the mainland at Campbeltown by a shingle causeway. It’s known for its lighthouse and caves, one of which contains a life-sized crucifixion painting. IslE oF gIgha A 20-minute ferry trip from Tayinloan, this community-owned island is a popular daytrip destination where the welcome is as warm as the gulf stream that enriches its climate. Gigha’s premier attraction is the colourful Achamore Gardens.
www.gigha.org.uk
golF Machrihanish Golf Club is celebrated worldwide, and no golf enthusiast will want to miss a round on this links course, which boasts sea views and the best opening hole in the country. www.machgolf.com
Mull oF kIntyRE Forever associated with Paul McCartney’s song, this remote headland marks the tip of the Kintyre peninsula. The effort of reaching it is repaid with dramatic views towards Ireland. skIPnEss CastlE and kIlbRannan ChaPEl A short drive from Tarbert, this 11th-century castle showcases a blend of architectural styles. There’s plenty to see inside, including views across the Kilbrannan Sound to Arran.
