Gigha north end and the twin beaches

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Summary

The north end of Gigha sees fewer visitors than further south. The gems of this part of the island are the Twin Beaches; the walk visits these as well as the North Cairn and the summit views of Cnoc nan Gobhar. The walk can be made into a short one by cycling or driving to a layby below Cnoc nan Gobhar.

Grade (key)

Bog Factor (key)

4.5/5

Rating

Terrain

Long road walk to the north end (can be cycled); then three short walks, muddy in places

Public Transport

Bus to Taylinoan; ferry to Gigha.

Start

Gigha ferry terminal or layby at Cnoc nan Gobhar. Open in Google Maps.

Walk Statistics

Distance: 16.25km / 10 miles
Time: 4 - 4.5 hours
Ascent: 120m (Profile)
Start Grid Ref: NR653490

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Walk Description

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Stage 1

To reach the north end from the ferry terminal, simply walk up the road, past the two sandy beaches, to reach a junction beside the shop and post office. Turn right here and head along the road; there is very little traffic. Soon you will see Gigha golf course on the left side; continue along the tarmac which is very straight as it cuts across the fertile farmland of Gigha. Ignore a track off to the left (the route for Creag Bhan) and the fork off to the right, remaining on the main road.

Stage 2

After passing Tarbert Farm the island narrows to an isthmus between the two Tarbert bays, and passes a tall standing stone. Continue for another kilometre and a half to where a footpath sign indicates a track off to the left for Eilean Garbh and the twin beaches. There is a layby at this point so if you have driven to the north end this is where to leave your car.

Stage 3

The walk takes the form of three separate excursions from this point. To visit the North Cairn first, continue ahead along the road. The road bends to the right, passing an old quarry and a stone ruin, and then bends left. Almost immediately look out for a wide muddy path cutting through the bracken on the left hand side. The North Cairn can be seen on the skyline from this point and the path leads straight towards it.

Stage 4

The cairn is very old and marks the most northerly point of the island, with stunning views towards Knapdale, the Paps of Jura and Islay, as well as the twin beaches that link Eilean Garbh to the rest of Gigha. It's especially memorable at sunset. Return from the cairn back to the footpath signpost mentioned earlier.

Stage 5

The walk visits the twin beaches next. As indicated by the sign, head through the gate and follow the track through a grassy field. A short distance further on, as the track swings right, continue on the clear path ahead. Now continue to reach the more southerly of the two beaches, Bagh Rubha Ruaidh. This is pleasant enough, but the real beauty of a beach is the north-facing Bagh na Doirlinne across the narrow dune-like spit; the fine sand here makes for a truly stunning spot.

Stage 6

It is possible to continue the walk by heading up onto Eilean Garbh. There is a steep path (with one awkward step up a rock) which climbs up onto the heathery mound immediately at the far end of the two beaches. It gives great views back over the twin beaches and across to the Isle of Jura. For the second time, return back the way you came to the signpost by the layby.

Stage 7

There is one final excursion worth making before heading back - the ascent of the hillock of Cnoc nan Gobhar directly ahead. Head up to the left of the drystone wall until reaching a grassy neck and then turn left to head up to the summit. There are two cairns separated by a slight dip; the view, as you'll expect by now, is superb. Return back to the road the same way and then follow it back to the south.

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