Travel Guide Isle Of Gigha
A long and rich History
Due to its proximity to the mainland and its fertile soil, Gigha may have been one of the first inhabited islands in the area. Traces of its past are abundant, with over 100 sites of archaeological importance shared between Gigha and tiny Cara nearby. Chambered cairns and standing stones bear witness to the early days of the colonisation of the island, whilst the Ogham Stone with an inscription in the Ogham alphabet now almost rubbed out, dates back to the early days of the Scots in Kintyre, sometime between the 5th and 7th centuries.
Viking raiders must have once been visitors to the island, as witnessed by a Viking grave discovered in 1849, the grave goods from which are now in the Hunterian museum in Glasgow. The Norse king Haakon was on Gigha in 1263 and it was he who purportedly gave the island its name.
From 1493, the island was under the control of the MacNeill clan, who held on to it despite many challenges from the MacDonalds. In more recent history, Gigha has had several owners, and in the 20th Century, the frequent changes of ownership meant economic and social decline for the island until in 2002, aided by grants from the national lottery and other sources, they bought the island out for 4 million. The Isle of Gigha Heritage Trust who now runs the island has had many successes and it looks as though the downward trend that existed demographically as well as economically is now reversed. Tourism is one of the sectors that has benefited from the new regime, with 15,000 tourists visiting each year.
What to do and see
As the history above suggests, there is much of historical interest to see on the island. Don't miss the 13th Century church of St Catan, now a ruin but with one of the original lancet windows still present. There are many medieval grave slabs still covering the floor of the church and in the surrounding cemetery. And look out for standing stones, forts, dunes and other ancient remains all over the island.
Gigha is also a nature lover's paradise, with much to delight bird watchers and other naturalists. To make the most of everything on offer, Gigha is best explored either on foot or on a bicycle (these are available to rent at the hotel and at the Post Office). You can find out more about the path network on the island itself.
Achamore Gardens
Achamore Gardens were started by Sir James Horlicks (of malted drink fame) in 1945. After his death, they were in the care of the National Trust, but since the community buy-out, the Isle of Gigha Heritage Trust owns them. Thanks as much to the care given by successive gardeners as to the mild climate that reigns over the island, these gardens attract plant enthusiasts from far and wide. They are particularly well-known for their extensive collection of rhododendrons. There are two proposed itineraries, the longest of which takes about two hours to complete and involves some walking uphill but the reward is a breathtaking view over the Isle of Arran.
Eating and drinking
Gigha hotel has a restaurant which serves Scottish dishes, using local produce wherever possible, and a pub which offers bar meals. The pub also has outside tables. Not far from the hotel, the Boathouse Caf Bar offers meals and snacks in the summer.
Golfing
Gigha has a nine hole golf course with all-round views of the island and mainland Kintyre.
Music Festival
Since 2001, Gigha has had its very own music festival which is always a sell-out event. Many people camp near the boathouse for the weekend to enjoy the traditional music on offer and soak up the unique atmosphere. The highlight is the Saturday night Ceilidh.
Practical information
Getting there
Unless you have a boat or a plane of your own, the only way to get to the island is by means of the Caledonian MacBrayne Ferry. If however you happen to own, or have the use of, a plane, there is a grass airstrip that can be used by private planes and microlights. A yacht anchorage is also available, with a number of facilities at the nearby Boathouse Caf Bar. In the summer, up to 40 yachts per night moor at the island.
Where to stay
Gigha Hotel
The three star Gigha Hotel is the only hotel on the island. Owned by the community, it is only a few hundred yards from the ferry terminal. It has a restaurant open to non-residents, and the pub is the heart of the community.
Achamore House
Built in 1884, Achamore House offers four star Bed & Breakfast in the beautiful setting of Achamore Gardens.
Self-catering cottages
The island has a number of self-catering cottages available to rent.
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