God's Island - Gigha Camping
8 people attending
0 places left
Please note this event is now full and is closed. If you wish to cancel a place on the event or on the waiting list please raise a support ticket (go to MY ACCOUNT and MY SUPPORT and mention which event you are cancelling). In the unlikely scenario that spare places appear we will reopen the event.
Saturday 5th May - Monday 7th May
Spring will be in the air and we're off camping on a Hebridean island!
Gigha is the most southerly of the hebridean islands and is one of the smallest at just seven miles long and half a mile wide, but it packs in lots of beaches, plenty of wildlife and a green and lush landscape.
The island has a long history, with evidence of people having lived here since prehistoric times. The Norse people used nearby Islay as the centre of their control and Gigha was once visited by Hakon, King of Norway; and was known as God's island by the Norse folk. Most recently the island was purchased by the community in 2002, with the island becoming a popular place to move to as the population has increased by over 50% in the following decade.
One of the main attractions on the island is the 54 acres of Achamore Gardens, which has many plants that flourish in the mild climate brought by the Gulf Stream.
What to bring
Tent: A tent is essential when sleeping out in the open. You should make sure that you pitched the tent before, and have all parts of it, such as poles and pegs. The tent should also be light enough to carry as well as being able to stand up to the weather. A 3 season tent is recommended as a minimum level of protection.
Sleeping Bag / Mat: A sleeping bag is of course required for camping. You should look for one that provides adequate warmth, below the temperature that you expect.
Cooking Equipment: You should bring some kind of cooking equipment so that you can cook hot meals, and enjoy hot drinks when cold.
Boots: Hiking boots are arguably the most essential piece of kit when hiking just about anywhere. Walker’s should make sure that their boots are both waterproof and breathable, and provide good ankle support. Boots should also be in good condition.
Socks: Walking socks are often overshadowed by those new to hiking, with many novices failing to invest in proper socks. Good walking socks are essential in regards to keeping the feet dry, and in turn stopping the development of blisters. Sports socks and other socks not designed for walking will often become waterlogged, or damaged which will in turn blister feet.
Gators: Gators attach to the bottom of walking boots and extend to just under the knee. They provide waterproofing for the bottom half of the leg, and are essential in keeping the feet dry.
Walking Trousers: Walking trousers should be of a windproof design and made of a rip stop material, that will stand up to walking through ferns and undergrowth. They should also ideally be water resistant, or at least not gain weight, and lose their insulation properties when wet. Jeans are therefore to be avoided, as they are heavy when wet and provide no protection from the elements.
Waterproof Trousers: Waterproof trousers are essential in keeping the legs dry, as water resistant trousers will not keep out any significant rainfall. Walker’s should look for waterproof trousers that are breathable, in order to avoid being soaked with sweat.
Base Layer: A breathable base layer should be chosen in order to let sweat escape from the body. This should ideally consist of a breathable synthetic, specially designed fabric, though a cotton T-Shirt is sufficient.
Mid Layer: A Mid Layer goes on top of the base layer and should consist of a 100 weight micro fleece, or a rugby typed thick shirt. The layering system is important as it allows walkers to quickly adapt to changes in the weather as well as body temperature.
Outer Layer: The outer layer should consist of a windproof jacket or a thick fleece. This is the final layer and walkers should ensure that this layer provides ample warmth.
Waterproof Jacket: A good waterproof jacket is one of the most important pieces of kit you will require when hiking. Walkers should look for a jacket that is both waterproof and breathable in order for them to be protected from sweat. Materials such as Gore-tex are often the best choices.
Hat: As most heat is lost through the head a good hat is essential. The best hats are those of a fleece design, with wool also being acceptable.
Gloves: Gloves are essential in the colder months as walkers will require the usage of their fingers for various activities such as map reading. Windproof or better still waterproof gloves are the best choice.
Rucksack: A good Rucksack that is comfortable to wear is essential, and required to carry both food and equipment. Day sacks should have a capacity of around 30 litres with equipment being placed in water proof bags inside.
Mobile Phone: A mobile phone should also be brought and kept in a waterproof bag for use in emergencies.
Food & drink
You will need to provide your own food and drink for the weekend. You could book yourself a table at the neighbouring Boathouse restaurant which has a good reputation for seafood, or the local shop is just two minutes walk away.
232449