41. Palm Tree Beach

After grabbing some lunch at the excellent cafe at the Tayinloan ferry, I take the quick 20-minute sailing to the Island of Gigha (leaving the car at Tayinloan). At this point, I’m not sure what to expect of Gigha. I’ve read about its white beaches, but being so close to the mainland I am managing my expectations. I am not expecting that same Hebridean island vibe. How wrong I am. As soon as I leave the ferry, I know I am in for a treat. I check into the Gigha Hotel (the only hotel on the island) and immediately set off to walk the four miles along Gigha’s only road to the islands northern tip. It’s a lovely walk, with blue skies, bright sunshine and no midges. I have the mainland to my right and the mighty Jura to my left as I wander past grazing cattle, verdant pastureland and tiny turquoise coves until the road is no more. A couple of camper vans are parked up at the end of the road but before I reach them I take a right turn across the headland, around a rocky bay and onto the Caribbean paradise of Palm Tree beach. A couple are just leaving, having enjoyed a swim, which leaves the beach entirely free for me. The single palm tree at the back of the beach looks artificial, like a prop in a film set, and I wonder how many Instagram photos have been taken here. I can’t resist. I find a second, smaller, but equally idyllic bay just past the main beach… but no palm tree here. An amazing place, and a great first impression of Gigha!