Isle of Gigha

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About Isle of Gigha

Gigha is a small, fertile island lying just off the Kintyre peninsula in the Inner Hebrides, reached by a short ferry crossing from Tayinloan. Known as 'God's Island' from its Norse name Gud-ey, it is famous for the sub-tropical Achamore Gardens and for being one of the first islands bought by its own community.

The story of Isle of Gigha

Gigha was held by the MacNeills for over 800 years until the estate was sold to James Hamilton in 1780, and the island passed through several owners before the community buyout of 2002. In March 2002 the Isle of Gigha Heritage Trust, funded largely by the Scottish Land Fund, purchased the island for £4 million, making it one of the earliest community-owned islands in Scotland and a landmark in the land reform movement. Achamore House was built in the late 19th century and its 50-acre gardens were developed by Sir James Horlick from 1944, who planted a renowned collection of rhododendrons, camellias and exotic trees sheltered from Atlantic gales. The island's Norse name, Gud-ey ("God's Island"), reflects its 9th- and 10th-century Viking heritage, and a 13th-century chapel site at Kilchattan marks its early Christian layer.

Visiting with care

Take the 20-minute CalMac ferry from Tayinloan on Kintyre and explore the island by car, bike or on foot. Achamore Gardens are the highlight, along with the sandy bays at Ardminish and the walk to the south end overlooking Cara Sound.

Interesting facts

• In March 2002 the Isle of Gigha Heritage Trust bought the island, one of the first community buyouts in Scotland.
• Achamore Gardens were developed from 1944 by Sir James Horlick, who planted over 300 species of rhododendron.
• The name Gigha comes from the Norse "Gud-ey", meaning "God's Island".
• Gigha was held by the MacNeill family for over 800 years until 1780.