Ardminish bay

To most people Gigha means the gardens of Achamore House, rebuilt in the late 19th century and again in about 1900 after a fire, and nowadays offering bed and breakfast. Indeed the gardens are beautiful set amongst mature trees from all over the world to provide the necessary windbreak from the salt laden air of the Atlantic gales. Sir James Horlick bought the island in 1944 and was responsible for planting the hundreds of Azaleas and rhododendrons which make the spring and early summer one of the best times to visit. Later the herbaceous borders and flowering shrubs of the delightful walled garden come into their own. The whole place is remarkably well looked after and signposted. Perhaps these gardens cannot really compare with Inverewe but they are a delight to wander around and sit in, particularly if you are looking for some stable dry land after a rough passage. Walking back from the gardens to the anchorage you can pause at the late 18th century Gigha Hotel for whatever liquid or solid refreshment seems just right for the moment (ph 01583 505254). The bar seems to be open all day but the bar meals are nothing very special when I was last there (I have not been in the restaurant). Maybe the bar isn't very special either being a rather cramped accessory to what seems to be more of a hotel for tourists than a cosy haunt for yachtsmen.

Certainly the anchorage is a very handy place to regroup and gather strength either just before or just after rounding the Mull of Kintyre. There is a 24 hour washing machine and drier with showers and toilets right by the jetty, mooring buoys for visitors and a well stocked shop just up the road from the landing. By the landing are some tiny sandy beaches where children can be safely left to paddle, and the more adventurous can launch their windsurfers. The Gigha Gallery needs to be checked out, an excuse for another visit.