2 October 2026
Think you need a car to explore Scotland's islands? Think again. Follow content creator Marisa Vogiatzi (@marisa.vogiatzi) as she travels from Glasgow to Oban by train, then island hops to Coll and Tiree with CalMac – exploring both islands on two wheels. Packed with spectacular beaches, wildlife, local food and unforgettable scenery, this 5-day itinerary proves just how easy a car-free island adventure can be. So, where next?
Coll and Tiree are made for slowing down and exploring at your own pace. With quiet roads, spectacular white-sand beaches, abundant wildlife and welcoming island communities, they're ideal for discovering by bike. Whether you're searching for peaceful coastal escapes, local food or unforgettable sunsets, these neighbouring islands reward travellers who take the scenic route.
✓ Explore two islands without a car
✓ Discover more than 35 spectacular white-sand beaches
✓ Travel by train, ferry and bike
✓ Spot wildlife, including puffins, seals and dolphins
✓ Follow Marisa Vogiatzi's tried-and-tested itinerary
No car? No problem. We've teamed up with Marisa Vogiatzi to map out a 5-day island adventure that's easy to follow by train, ferry and bike. Simply retrace her route to discover more than 35 white-sand beaches, spot incredible wildlife and experience just how easy a car-free island adventure can be.
Your adventure begins before you even board the ferry. Take the ScotRail train or CityLink coach from Glasgow to Oban, then spend the rest of the day exploring Scotland's Seafood Capital before setting sail the next day.
Discover one of Scotland's oldest distilleries and learn how its coastal location has shaped its world-famous whisky.
Climb to this iconic landmark for panoramic views across Oban Bay and the surrounding islands.
Climb to this iconic landmark for panoramic views across Oban Bay and the surrounding islands.
Marisa chose the Muthu Alexandra Hotel as her base before setting off for the islands.
Looking for something different?
Opens in new windowBrowse more accommodation options in Oban.
One thing you won't struggle to find in Oban? Great food. As Scotland's Seafood Capital, there's something delicious around almost every corner, including plenty of vegan-friendly options.
Opens in new windowBrowse the great food and drink options in Oban.
Take the morning ferry from Oban to Coll, then spend the day exploring the island by bike. Marisa hired hers from the Post Office, while cyclists bringing their own bike can take it free on CalMac ferries by reserving a bike space when booking.
With more than 20 beaches to discover, there's always another quiet stretch of sand waiting around the next corner.
These historic castle ruins offer a fascinating glimpse into Coll's past in a peaceful island setting.
Keep your eyes peeled for seals, puffins and ospreys as you explore the island's coastline.
As Scotland's official Dark Sky destination, with virtually no light pollution, Coll is one of the UK's best places for stargazing.
Marisa stayed at Coll Hotel, a welcoming base for exploring the island, where guests can also hire a bike if needed.
The Urchin
Coll Hotel
Coll Stores
Hand-picked by Marisa, each is well worth adding to your itinerary.
Take the ferry from Coll to Tiree and continue your journey on two wheels. If you're not bringing your own bike, Tiree Fitness offers delivery to the ferry terminal or your accommodation, making it easy to get straight into your adventure.
Take your pick from more than 16 stunning beaches, perfect for swimming, surfing or simply soaking up the island views.
Take a tour, sample award-winning island spirits and unwind in the cosy bar and visitor centre overlooking the coast.
Marisa chose Balemartine Airbnb as her base on Tiree, but you'll also find self-catering cottages, pods, campsites and hotels to suit every kind of island traveller.
Looking for somewhere else to stay?
Opens in new windowBrowse more accommodation options on Tiree.
Spend your final day exploring Tiree's adventurous side. Whether you're catching waves, spotting wildlife or browsing local galleries and shops, there's plenty to discover at your own pace.
See Tiree from a different perspective with an unforgettable adventure on the water.
Keep an eye out for dolphins, seals and a variety of coastal birds around the island.
Learn the story of Scotland's tallest lighthouse at this free community museum.
Browse local artwork, handmade jewellery, chocolates and gifts created by Tiree's talented makers.
Find a quiet beach, watch the sun dip below the horizon and soak up your final evening on Tiree before tomorrow's journey home.
After five unforgettable days exploring Coll and Tiree, catch the ferry back to Oban before continuing your journey to Glasgow by ScotRail train or CityLink coach. As the islands disappear into the distance, you might already be wondering... where next?
Travelling to Coll and Tiree without a car was a lovely way to experience them. Travelling between them by ferry and exploring on foot and bike, made the whole trip feel wonderfully slow-paced, with beautiful beaches, incredible coastal scenery and plenty of opportunities to simply enjoy island life.
@marisa.vogiatzi
Want to see the adventure for yourself? Follow Marisa's journey across Coll and Tiree and get a glimpse of the beaches, bike rides and island moments that inspired this itinerary.
Want to see the adventure for yourself? Follow Marisa's journey across Coll and Tiree and get a glimpse of the beaches, bike rides and island moments that inspired this itinerary.
Marisa's itinerary is a fantastic introduction to Coll and Tiree, but one of the biggest rewards of travelling here is slowing down and exploring beyond the main sights. Stay an extra day or two and you'll uncover even more hidden beaches, local experiences and peaceful corners that are best discovered at your own pace.
Looking for inspiration? Browse our island experiences by destination, interest or region and discover even more ways to make your trip your own.
Marisa's itinerary is a fantastic introduction to Coll and Tiree, but one of the biggest rewards of travelling here is slowing down and exploring beyond the main sights. Stay an extra day or two and you'll uncover even more hidden beaches, local experiences and peaceful corners that are best discovered at your own pace.
Looking for inspiration? Browse our island experiences by destination, interest or region and discover even more ways to make your trip your own.
Coll and Tiree are rewarding destinations all year round. Spring and summer are perfect for cycling, wildlife and beach adventures, while autumn and winter bring quieter coastlines, dramatic seascapes and some of Scotland's clearest night skies.
The best way to experience it all? Come back and explore the islands in a different season.
Coll and Tiree are rewarding destinations all year round. Spring and summer are perfect for cycling, wildlife and beach adventures, while autumn and winter bring quieter coastlines, dramatic seascapes and some of Scotland's clearest night skies.
The best way to experience it all? Come back and explore the islands in a different season.
Recreating this itinerary is easier than you might think. You simply book each leg individually, making it easy to follow the route at your own pace. For 2 adults, the ferry crossings featured in this itinerary cost £61.50 in total. Prefer to bring the car? You can recreate the same island-hopping route by car costing £222.80 in total for 2 adults and 1 standard car.
