TOP GIGHA

Gigha is one of those islands that requires a little effort to reach. It’s not a big crossing, nor is it a particularly long or demanding trip to complete the circumnavigation. But the approach via the Mull of Kintyre is endless, the alternative being multiple ferry crossings via Arran. Consequently, it was one we’d put off for longer than was right, but as so often happens, it was worth the wait.

The forecast was good - too good in fact as we both ended the trip with mild sunstroke - the paddling was sublime…

…and the sunset from Eilean Garbh among the best I have seen.

Heading south, the north coast of Ireland was clearly visible, while to the west, the Paps of Jura rose elegantly above an azure sea.

Top Gigha as Chris remarked, reflecting on the trip as we toiled back along the Mull of Kintyre.