Ferryman's Cottage

‘By the way, the Ferryman’s Cottage was the original home of the signalman of Gigha, who coordinated voyages to and from the island.’

That’s exactly the sort of casual-but-impressive titbit you can share with your loved one when you surprise them with this cottage escape to Gigha (you might also want to mention that this hideaway comes complete with a cosy log fire).

An island of silver sands, standing stones and Northern lights (plus more than its fair share of frolicking dolphins), Gigha is crammed with attractions to enjoy.

Today’s Big Deal gives you the chance to treat your partner, or whole family, to a stay on a photogenic island that’s just a short ferry ride from shore.

Love for all seasons

Enjoy the autumn browns and greens, or become a cosy winter castaway with today’s Big Deal on a stay at the self-catering Ferryman’s Cottage on the West Coast island of Gigha.

The spacious cottage is located close to the ferry slip, the beach and the well-stocked local shop. It sleeps five with a double bed in one bedroom and three singles in the other.

From the comfort of the large lounge, you can watch the ferry come and go or admire the splendid yachts at anchor in the beautiful Ardminish Bay.

The cottage is also very near to the welcoming Gigha Hotel with its superb dining room and cosy bar.

If you are lucky, you might even spot the Northern Lights from the island, which would certainly add a bit of magic to your stay.

The Big Deal is valid until March 2019, so you can enjoy your stay during a couple of seasons. Luckily, the locations looks fantastic whatever the weather.

Well-equipped cottage

The offer is for up to five people to stay two, three, four or five nights in the self-catering Ferryman’s Cottage. This offer is available for seven days a week.

The cottage has electric heating and the well equipped kitchen features an electric cooker, fridge freezer and microwave. There is also a colour television in the lounge for those relaxing evenings in front of the fire with a glass of your favourite malt whisky.

Linen and electricity are included. If you want to get the fire going, firewood can be bought from the hotel or local shop.

Guests should note that logs are not provided, as there is a shortage on the island. Guests are advised to bring their own to ensure there is enough to suit their needs. Firewood may be available to buy from the local shop, but is subject to availability due to the shortage.

Scottish produce

As we noted, the kitchen is fully equipped. If you don’t fancy cooking, Sound of Gigha Bistro in the hotel has a menu to delight. Booking required.

Awarded a Taste Our Best 2017/18 title from Visit Scotland, the hotel’s chefs are proud to serve local ingredients. Advance booking is recommended.

See and do

Gigha may be small but there is no shortage of things to do on the island. Many guests like to explore the magnificent Achamore Gardens and there are various craft shops for souvenir buying.

You could also hire a sea kayak or rowing boat from Gigha Boats Activity Centre, play the island’s challenging nine-hole golf course or simply walk to the top of Creag Bhan and watch the sun set behind Islay.

Other attractions include ancient standing stones, a quern-stone quarry and a spouting cave. The island is rich in wildlife and as well as dolphins and seals, you might also spot peregrine falcons, kestrels or buzzards.

Whether you love nature, craft shopping, outdoor activities or just getting cosy in winter with a warm meal and a malt whisky, Gigha has everything you will need.

Island getaway

The drive from Glasgow to Tayinloan passes Loch Lomond, the Rest-and-Be-Thankful pass, Loch Long and Loch Fyne.

It takes around three hours and many reckon it is one of the most beautiful drives in Scotland.

Add on the ferry trip and you could leave Glasgow at lunch and be enjoying the views from the Ferryman’s Cottage before Countdown starts.

Romantic getaway

A historic cottage, scenic beaches and stunning island gardens all add up to a very romantic getaway.

Accommodating up to five people, today’s Big Deal for a stay at the Ferryman’s Cottage would also make a great escape for a family or group of friends.