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Where Is The Isle Of Kerrera
The Isle of Kerrera is just South of Oban, a short ferry ride from the mainland. It takes around 2 and half hours to get to the ferry to Kerrera from Glasgow and 3 hours from Edinburgh. It’s not a large island, at only 4 miles long, with the ferry slipway for the foot passenger ferry in the middle of the eastern side of the island.
There are plenty of places to stay in nearby Oban if you want to visit on a day trip. Or even book accommodation on the island itself to stay for a few nights. There are various options from the bunk house to chalets.
How To Get To The Isle of Kerrera
As Kerrera is an island you will need to catch the ferry over the Sounds of Kerrera from the mainland. It’s a small ferry that can only carry 12 people, and one vehicle (residents vehicles only). It only takes 5 minutes to cross over to the island, so there are plenty of ferries each day. You can buy tickets on the ferry, so just turn up and get on the next ferry.
Best Things To Do On The Isle of Kerrera
Although the Isle of Kerrera is only 4 miles long, there is plenty to do on a day trip or 2 to the island!
Gylen Castle
In the South of the island is Gylen Castle. It’s now ruined and was only a small tower house design, however it was still an important location. It was built in 1582 by Duncan MacDougall, but burnt by a Covenanter army in 1647. So the castle didn’t stand for long!
Central and Southern Walking Loop
There’s a lovely walk that takes you from the ferry South toward the castle and then back to the ferry again. We followed the 11km route suggested by Walk Highlands in reverse, passing by Balliemore farm shop for ice cream (it’s self service!) on the way. The track goes through rough and boggy ground, so make sure you have good shoes!
Don’t miss the volcanic basaltic dykes near the southern end of the island, they are fascinating!
Kerrera Tea Garden
Kerrera tearoom is also in the South of the island, not far from Gylen Castle. Check opening times if you are planning to visit, these vary throughout the year and don’t expect it to be quiet either, this is a famous tea garden.
Offerings are typically delicious cakes such as chocolate brownies and of course a great cup of tea! After you’re refreshed visit the castle, nearby beach or walk back down to the ferry.
Beaches
There are lots of beaches around the small island of Kerrera to visit! They aren’t the white sand beaches of the outer Hebrides, but there are definitely small sandy beaches and plenty of stone covered ones too. You’ll easily find somewhere to relax together.
Easy beaches to reach include the beach at Gylen castle and Slatrach Bay. We also visited Barr-Nam-Boc Bay on the West Coast, which has some lovely stones to inspect!
Waypoint Bar
At the North end of Kerrera is the marina and Waypoint Bar. This is where you need to head for a delicious dinner on a sunny summers evening. It’s located by the moorings for sailing boats at the North end of the island. You can expect locally produced food, with meat from island farms and seafood fished near to the island. They also host various community events throughout the year and visitors are always welcome!
Here Are All My Guides To Visiting The Scottish Islands!
- Shetland Islands – The most Northernly islands in Scotland, but so much to see!
- Orkney Islands – Beautiful islands filled with history and wildlife.
- Isle of Skye – Popular with tourists, great to visit in the quieter shoulder season.
- Isle of Tiree – Popular for Watersports, it has plenty of beaches and hikes.
- Isle of Mull – Rugged island with amazing wildlife, beaches and hikes.
- Isle of Iona – Famous for St Columba, it has fab beaches and hikes.
- Isle of Islay – Often referred to as the whisky island, it also has fab wildlife.
- Isle of Gigha – A small island, but so much to offer, beaches, trails and views.
- Isle of Bute – Great island close to mainland, don’t miss Mount Stuart!
- Isle of Kerrera – A small island with excellent tea room, great for a day trip from Oban.
- Inchcolm Island – Tiny island in the Firth of Forth, great day trip from Edinburgh.
Other Must-Visit Places In Scotland
Pin Visit Isle of Kerrera, Near Oban – Scotland
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