Gigha is the most southerly of the populated Inner Hebridean Islands, sitting between distant Islay and Jura to the west and the Kintyre Peninsula just three miles to the east. A short car and passenger ferry trip links its main settlement of Ardminish with Tayinloan on the mainland. After long decline the population has of late been on the rise, now numbering over 100, though in the 18th century its generally rich arable lands and temperate climate supported about 600 souls. That says something about its natural resources, the island being just seven miles north-south and at most a mile-and-a-half wide. The recent resurgence has come about with its buyout by residents, helping local enterprises to invest and begin to thrive, among them of course several linked to tourism. Until the buyout as with other such islands a succession of owners, some more far-sighted than others, made development more complex than it might have been. Some of those owners, however, left lasting and valuable reminders of their times: the noted gardens at Achamore, and a fish farm that has pioneered halibut production among them. There is plentiful forested land at the western side of the island, another factor in its micro-climate, rather warmer and sunnier than some of its neighbours. The generally low-lying terrain – Creag Bhan its highest hill just 331 feet above sea-level – are another plus point as regards its relatively low rainfall for the region. Tourism, livestock farming especially cows, fishing, and these days the income from three wind turbines are the main sources of revenue. Visitors come for the aforementioned gardens, the diverse sea-birds, a selection of quiet sandy beaches, and the island’s 9-hole golf course. The island is also a destination for the yachting community, drawn to the deep cut little bays on its sheltered eastern side.
Golf Club
Places to Stay near Gigha
Gigha Hotel (0.48 miles)
Ashbank Hotel (12.71 miles)
This family run hotel is in an ideal location being just a short walk from the mile long sandy beach and working harbour. We are situated in the heart of ... More
Dunvalanree Hotel (12.98 miles)
West Loch Hotel (15.47 miles)
The West Loch Hotel dates from circa 1780, retaining many of its original features. This charming former Coaching Inn is now a modern hotel and restaurant offering fresh, distinctive, well-priced food along with comfortable rooms and wonderful views ... More | visit website
Victoria Hotel (18.03 miles)
Overlooking the harbour front in the village of Tarbert on the shores of loch fyne, this diminutive hotel offers dedicated, informal accommodation. Known through-out the village for its sunny yellow exterior, the Victoria Hotel can you ... More | visit website
Ballygrant Inn & Restaurant (18.61 miles)
A family run Inn with a friendly Scottish welcome, excellent food, great selection of malt whiskies, beers and ales, David and Ruby Graham welcome you to ... More
The Ugadale Cottages (18.64 miles)
Stonefield Castle Hotel (18.67 miles)
Spoil yourself and stay in a Castle which is an outstanding example of Scottish baronial Architecture. Built in 1837 and in keeping with its unique situation and character, many of the original ... More
Craigard House Hotel (18.68 miles)
Welcome to the Mull of Kintyre. Join us in this lovely old house, turned friendly and informal bijou hotel. Take the time to really relax and chill out in one of our cosy rooms, most ... More | visit website
BW Kinloch Hotel (20.65 miles)
Unrivalled scenery & spectacular views, the Best Western Kinloch on the beautiful west coast of Arran, offers a warm Scottish welcome in relaxed & quiet comfort. Family owned & run for over 50 years, we ... More | visit website
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