Tiree: Scotland’s Surf Retreat

Surfing normally makes you think of crystal blue water, sun tans and hot sunshine. Sccotland has the crystal waters – the rest is hit or miss. But nonetheless the island of Tiree has some epic surfing, boasting some of the best windsurfing competitions around. It’s got the beaches, the waves and the island isolate. So why not make your own surf retreat on Tiree?

I first visited Tiree on a girls holiday, aged 17. It was 10 days just surfing on the island, wandering around the beaches and having drinks with friends. To this day it is still one of the most chilled holidays I have had, and is what inspired me to write this post

The Surfing (and Other Watersports)

Let’s get right down to the sport. Tiree has been a key surfing location in Scotland for many years. You can try your hand at surfing, kitesurfing and SUP on the island. I recommend checking out Suds Surf School – the longest running surf school in the Hebrides. Suds is super down to earth and a great instructor. We got ourselves a lesson initially before hiring boards the rest of the week. Even when hiring, you’ll often bump into Suds and his crew catching a few waves themselves.

Suds Surf School also offers SUP and works in conjunction with Blackhouse Water Sports, who offer kitesurfing too. If you’re looking for kayaking or even sandyachting, there is also Wild Diamond Watersports. There’s a little bit of everything on this paradise island!

Other Activities

The reason Tiree is the perfect retreat location, is that is is a very quiet, peaceful island. There are very few cars and most homes are cottages, spaced out from each other. When you’re not surfing, why not spend the day at one of the many white sand beaches? Since there are very few non-natural light sources, it’s also a great location for stargazing.

If you are keen for other activities, there are a couple options. Tiree is a fairly flat island, so while there not be much for hill seekers, there are gentle walks that allow you to explore the island on foot. Guided walks are available if booked in advance. Cycling is also recommended! Bike hire is available.

Food and Drink

Supermarkets: There are two shops o the island. One is a chain spermaket. But I recommend supporting the local, independent Bùth a’ Bhaile store. It also has a bakery for those delicious post-surf-sesh carbs.

Make sure you grab some fish and chips while on the island. The great thing about island life is just how fresh and delicious the seafood is! Best enjoyed overlooking Balevullin beach.

There are several cute cafe’s and cosy pubs on the island. They are few and far between, spread across the island at different locations. So have a look at this list and plan depending on where you decide to base yourself. The Scarinish Hotel is a memorable restaurant and pub, overlooking a tiny harbour.

Accommodation

Tiree hosts a range of options for resting your head. The Glamping pods at Balinoe campsite are an opportunity to still be close to nature, whilst offer more comfort than a tent (because it is a surf retreat after all!). Their Bothy cabin also looks wonderfully wild yet simple and peaceful! If you are happy to spend a bit more, there is a huge list of gorgeous self-catering cottages too.

There are certainly options for hostels and camping too. However for the full surf retreat vibe, avoiding common sleeping areas and horseflies would be recommended.

Getting There

Most people get to Tiree via a 3 hour CalMac ferry from Oban. If you’re taking the car, your car can come with you. Tiree is also easy to access by public transport. There is a train that runs directly from Glasgow to Oban. Check ScotRail for timetables. I absolutely love the ferry part of every time to the islands. You can wildlife spot from the deck and feeling the sea air in your face truly feels like the beginning of an adventure.

Once on the island, there is a bus-on-demand taxi-style service or you can hire a car or bike. More information can be found here.

While flying is an option, via LoganAir, it is usually pricey and certainly not environmentally friendly.

Other Info

• Be aware that sometimes bad weather can cause the ferry to be cancelled. This can affect the food stocks available in stores (such as milk).
• Like many islands, the cows roam free and the houses are fenced off. Rather than the opposite we’re used to on the mainland!

Where else in the UK (or world!) would make a brilliant surf retreat? Leave a comment or contact me. I also run this blog for free but put a lot of work into the content. If you want to give back, I always love tea and coffee!