COLL

Coll is an island in the Inner Hebrides of Scotland. It lies off the west coast, roughly opposite Oban, and is part of the council area of Argyll and Bute. The island has a coastal landscape of beaches, sea lochs, and moorland. The interior is low-lying and sparsely populated, with Arinagour on the southern coast serving as the main settlement near the ferry pier.

Geography and environment: The terrain is rolling with long, white-sand beaches along the southern coast and a rocky shoreline elsewhere. Surrounding waters support seabirds and marine life, and Coll is noted for its relatively unspoiled landscape compared with more developed Hebridean islands.

History and culture: Evidence of ancient settlement on Coll includes archaeological remains from prehistoric and early historic periods. Gaelic culture has long influenced place-names and traditions on the island. Like many Hebridean communities, Coll experienced population decline during the 19th and 20th centuries due to economic changes and the effects of the Highland Clearances.

Economy and society: Today the economy relies on tourism, crofting, and small-scale crafts. The island attracts visitors with its beaches, wildlife, and walking routes, and seasonal work supports guest houses and local services.

Access and administration: Coll is accessible by ferry from Oban, with a port at Arinagour serving residents and visitors. The island belongs to Argyll and Bute Council within Scotland, and its governance reflects the rural and maritime character of the region.