Gigha, Scotland

The Isle of Gigha is a small island off the west coast of Kintyre in Scotland. It is the southernmost island of the Inner Hebrides, and because it is low lying and influenced by the North Atlantic Drift, the climate is drier and warmer than that normally associated with the west coast of Scotland. Gigha is known for its Ayrshire cattle and goat's cheese.

The island boasts beautiful bays, stunning views and breathtaking sunsets, lochs and gently sloping hillsides as well as a plentiful variety of wild and birdlife. Other attractions on the island are the Achamore Gardens, begun in 1945 by Sir James Horlick and known for its rhododendrons and azaleas, St Catan's Chapel ruins, and seal and otter watching along the shores.

Things to See and Do

* Achamore Gardens
* St Catan's Chapel ruins
* Wildlife watching
* Hiking
* Seal and otter watching

General information

Cruise Season – March - Nov
Currency – Pound Sterling (£)
Language – English
Land Area – 1,395 ha
Population – 150
Electricity – 2 vertical square pins and one perpendicular below British style
Time – GMT plus zero hours
International Country Telephone Code – + 44

Port Location – The ferry port is located in Ardminish, the island's only village. The closest major port to Gigha is located in Glasgow.

Transport Links - Glasgow International Airport is the nearest airport to Gigha, just 2.5 hours drive from Tayinloan. Gigha has its own grass airstrip which is near the south end of the island lying in an east/west direction. Caledonian MacBrayne runs a car and passenger ferry to Gigha all year round from Glasgow. The nearest train connection for Gigha is Arachar on the shores of Loch Long - a connection can be made there with the Scottish Citylink bus service from Glasgow. Regular bus services connect with ferry arrival and departures times.