Why you should visit Scotland's Isle of Coll: a temporary nightclub on a starlit island

When your ride to the nightclub involves a 2.5-hour trip on a hefty 5500-ton CalMac ferry, you know it’s going to be quite the adventure.

Located about 40 miles west of Oban in the enchanting Inner Hebrides archipelago, the Isle of Coll is ideal for relaxation, exploration, and escaping the crowds while dreaming by the shoreline.

Nature provides the entertainment here: pristine white-sand beaches, twinkling stars, and golden sunsets; the gentle sound of waves and the unique call of the corncrake; basking sharks, seals, and seabirds. Favored by stargazers, island adventurers, and wildlife enthusiasts, the untouched Isle of Coll might seem an unlikely spot for a lively night out—unless you’re there on September 22 and 23.

Conceived by London DJ and magazine editor Jonny Ensall, Detour Discotheque dubs itself the 'world’s most remote disco,' delivering infectious beats and nostalgic vibes to unexpected, carefully chosen locations around the globe. The very idea of a fleeting, two-night pop-up event is enough to spark curiosity and thrill—an enticingly ephemeral chance to dance on a novel floor, especially coupled with the allure of a distant locale and the adventurous journey to get there.

Iceland’s Westfjords hosted the inaugural disco in spring 2022, transforming the small village hall in Þingeyri into a sparkling vintage nightclub—and it was reported to be an uproariously entertaining event. Next on the itinerary of surprising destinations is Coll, which perfectly fits the bill for (relative) remoteness: Coll boasts a unique distinction that no other Scottish island possesses.

Due to its lack of street lighting and remote location from the illuminated mainland, Coll received the title of “Dark Sky Community” in 2013, making it one of only two places in Scotland to achieve this official recognition from the International Dark-Sky Association. The minimal light pollution offers exceptional stargazing experiences, with sparkling constellations, the Milky Way, and even the northern lights often visible to the naked eye. These celestial wonders have inspired this year’s Detour Discotheque theme, “Journey to the Cosmos.”

The island’s aptly named community center, An Cridhe (which means “the heart” in Gaelic), will host the festivities. This modern, versatile venue typically accommodates weekly markets, weddings, sports events, and traditional celebrations, making a 1970s New York-style disco a delightful novelty.

A diverse crowd is anticipated, featuring everyone from locals to international guests, with a maximum capacity of 250—greater than the island’s population of around 220, yet still intimate by urban standards. The weekend’s lineup promises a mix of sounds: international electronic grooves from Auntie Flo, Latin-infused disco from Puerto Rican DJ Daisybelle, Glasgow’s duo Free Love, and the island’s own Cosmic Ceilidh Band.

As the immersive, cosmic-themed event winds down and whisky-fueled revelers spill into the tranquil village of Arinagour, the clear skies are sure to keep the celestial spirit alive.

How to secure your spot

The initial ticket release for the event has already sold out. Subscribe to the Detour Discotheque newsletter to receive updates on when the second round of tickets becomes available.

Dining and drinking options on the Isle of Coll

The only pub on the island is located at Coll Hotel, a family-run establishment that has received awards for its charm. Stop by to enjoy drinks with locals, outstanding home-cooked meals, and freshly caught seafood. In addition to the hotel, the welcoming Island Cafe offers local produce and freshly baked treats. For a takeaway picnic, contact Tigh Na Mara guesthouse, or pick up self-catering snacks at Coll Stores, which also features small-batch craft spirits from the local Isle of Coll Distillery.

Discovering the Isle of Coll

Coll features over 30 sandy beaches of varying sizes, distances from the road, and accessibility during high tide. Rent a bike from the Isle of Coll Post Office or an eBike from An Cridhe to explore and find your favorite spot; Crossapol Bay, Torastan, and Sorisdale Bay are all excellent options. Don’t forget to grab a souvenir t-shirt or hoodie from local designer Ross of Coll before you go.

Accommodation options on the Isle of Coll

Arinagour serves as the primary settlement and ferry port on Coll, making it an ideal base, especially for those traveling without a vehicle. Accommodation options are limited and should be reserved well in advance. Coll Hotel features sea views, elegant rooms, and warm island hospitality, while the community-run Coll Bunkhouse offers excellent budget-friendly hostel accommodations right next to An Cridhe. For those seeking upscale comforts and a hearty breakfast, Tigh Na Mara guesthouse is a great choice.

The island has two campsites, both located about five miles from Arinagour: a historic walled garden within the RSPB Nature Reserve at Garden House Camping, or a site near the coast at Toraston Farm. Reservations for your pitch at either location are required in advance.