Isle Develop CIC

Isle of Tiree

The land below the waves

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Affectionately termed ‘Hawaii of the North’ for its superb array of sunny surf spots and white sandy shores, exposed to the North Atlantic swell.

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Traveling to Tiree is a special experience, dolphins and porpoises often swim alongside the ferry, so keep your eyes peeled. Visitors flying in enjoy stunning aerial views of the island and the neighbouring Treshnish Isles.

Tiree is a paradise for water sport enthusiasts attracting kayakers, kiters and surfers from all over the world. Due to the huge amount of sunshine it receives the land is very fertile and the landscape is almost completely flat.

It’s the most westerly island of the Inner Hebrides, and much like its neighbours, there’s a deep-rooted sense of human history that goes back 8000 years. Inhabited by Picts, Vikings and everyone in between the island is home to a small bustling community of around 650 people with a strong crofting heritage.

Expect traditional island architecture in the shape of blackhouses and white houses, many retaining their charming thatched roofs, as well as unique ‘spotty houses’ where white mortar contrasts with dark stone.

Tiree is home to some of the UK’s rarest wildlife. Corncrakes can be heard calling on the machair above the hum of the great yellow bumblebee. The fresh scents of wildflowers and the salty sea air are ever-present and warmly welcoming.

The island's beauty has inspired a number of Scotland’s best-known ceilidh bands. The Tiree Music Festival takes place each July and is revered for welcoming some of the most talented folk artists and bands.

We recommend a visit to:

  • An Iodhlann museum in Scarinish and Hynish heritage village. Get an insight into island life in the past through relics, stories, poems, maps and more.
  • Balephuil Bay and Gott Bay. Fully immerse yourself in the serenity of these unspoiled endless stretches of coastline.
  • Kirkapol: Steeped in legends and stories, explore 15th-century ruins.
  • Tiree Sea Tours: Spend your day in style with Tiree Sea Tours, offering a variety of exciting trips that allow you to sail around the stunning island and explore its beauty.
  • Windsurfing Paradise: Tiree is a windsurfing paradise, thanks to its flat terrain and the consistent winds that sweep across the island. It's the ideal destination for various water activities.
IMG_5965 - Jilly Green-Morgan

To find out more about things to see and do on Tiree, visit the Discover Tiree website.

Evening walk, Balevullin, Tiree
Balephuil Beach - Kenneth Sutherland

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