An Island Paradise - Coll
12 people attending
0 places left
3 people waitlisted
Come and chill out on the Hebridean island of Coll, which is a tranquil island off the west coast of Scotland, where there are sandy beaches, acres of machair, a thriving corncrake population to discover and only the second 'Dark Skies' area in Scotland.
The Isle of Coll is located west of Mull in the Inner Hebrides of Scotland. Coll is known for its sandy beaches, which rise to form large sand dunes, for its Corncrakes (rare birds), and for Breacachadh Castle. It is approximately 13 miles long and about 4 miles wide. There is plenty of information about the island on http://www.visitcoll.co.uk/index.php
We'll be staying in a community owned 5-star bunkhouse, for three nights while we explore the island. There may be a chance to go seal watching in kayaks (weather permitting) and given, the long summer evenings, maybe a beach BBQ.
This event can be booked to coincide with the Tiree midweek (3 night) event so that you can have almost a whole week away in the Hebrides. These two events must be booked separately to ensure you have a place on both!
This is a dog friendly bunkhouse for well behaved dogs! You will need to e-mail support@outdoorlads.com if you wish to bring a dog as spaces are limited. They must be on a lead at all times when outside at the bunkhouse.
Photos: Taken by Tomkayaker and used by OutdoorLads with permission.
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What to bring
Coll - it's a windy though often sunny isle! Come prepared for some walking on the rough ground and on the beaches.
Bring gear that you can use, should you wish to go sea kayaking, beach wear, waterproofs and of course some shorts.
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.
Socks: A good comfy pair of walking socks is essential really; they keep your feet warm and drier than normal socks.
Walking Trousers: You should have a suitable pair of trousers for walking in, jeans are not suitable as they take on water when wet and will make you cold. The same goes for jogging pants/tracksuit clothing.
Waterproof Trousers: Waterproof trousers are essential in case of wet weather. They are also good to be worn as a second layer as they can act as a windproof barrier, keeping the legs warm.
Base Layer: A breathable base layer should be chosen in order to let sweat escape from the body. This could be a cheaper sports top or you could go top of the range with a merino top, as cotton T-Shirts can become damp and uncomfortable when climbing a mountain.
Other Layers: On top of your base layer, you can have a variety of options such as a micro fleece, a fleece jacket or a rugby/sports top can sometimes be good. Having one or two additional layers gives you flexibility when the weather is changeable – the more layers, the more flexible you can be in adapting to the weather.
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 but they can be expensive unless you shop sensibly, don’t forget your OutdoorLads discount for Full Members at Cotswold outlets.
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. As an option you could store your items in waterproof bags inside just in-case or ensure the bag has a waterproof bag to pull over the top.
Food & drink
Saturday evening - please bring an item for the buffet. Be imaginative, a dozen pasta salads won't be very entertaining!
Sunday & Monday breakfast and dinner is included in the event price, along with Tuesday breakfast.
Please bring your own lunches.
Tea & Coffee at the bunkhouse is included in the event price.
There may be a possibility to buy fresh lobster and crab from the fisherman (not included in the event price) - last time it was extremely good value for money!!
You are strongly advised to do your food shopping in the Tesco supermarket (there is one in Oban) before you get on the ferry, the shop on Coll is limited in what they can supply.