In a previous post I had written how Kiloran beach was claimed to be not only the best beach on Colonsay, but the best beach in the Hebrides. Some claim.

I also disagreed, not because Kiloran beach is disappointing, far from it, but because there is an even better beach just up the road. Here I can reveal all.

 

Of course, when I say road I really mean a track. One is not allowed to take ones ‘s car along it and the bicycle or Shanks’ pony is the best bet. Our hired bikes  were perfect for this excursion. Round the back of Kiloran bay we wound and over the hills to the valley beyond.

 

This is the track to the farm at Balnahard which continues on to the spectacular Balnahard beach on the north eastern side of Colonsay. The land is farmed in an environmentally friendly manner to help preserve the wildlife, many of which are suffering from loss of habitat, such as the corncrake, chough and hen harrier.

Flying through the farm we carried on in an easterly direction until at the last rise the track petered out and our trusted bikes were abandoned for the final stretch down to the dunes. The first glimpse of the beach just took the breath away.

Turquoise shallows, golden sand and mountains rising in the distance. This is a beach to behold.

And it wasn’t long before my own two feet were treading the sand, carefully watched by darting plovers.

The absence of others just added to the beauty of this paradise beach. Yes we thought Kiloran beach was fabulous, but in all honesty this was the beach of dreams and gets my award for the best beach on Colonsay and possibly in the Hebrides (though I have a lot more exploring to do before I can ratify this).

Having made our way there, it was now time to return to the saddle and head back along the track. The treat continued, seeing the scene from a different angle…

Not only had we just been to the best beach on Colonsay, but we also saw a whale on our journey too (see the next post)

It can be noted that the farm at Balnahard offers accommodation and the website is here.

*Of course when I say official, I mean according to my own highly esteemed opinion. Now that is official!