The World's 'Most Remote Nightclub' Is On This Secluded Island
The Isle of Coll is a small island in the Inner Hebrides off the west coast of Scotland. Home to approximately 200 permanent residents, the small haven is known for its friendly people and beautiful dark starry nights. Tourists are likelier to hear waves crashing on the sand and chatting seabirds than disco music and partygoers. But this year promises to be a little louder as the Isle of Coll will host the world's "most remote nightclub." So, how do you get to the beautiful and remote Isle of Coll? And what can you expect once you arrive at the party?
Detour Discotheque brings music and movement to different locations annually. And this year, on September 22 and 23, it's Scotland's turn. The two-night event will transform the Isle of Coll into one of the most unique limited-edition gatherings in Scotland, what travelers have called the most beautiful country in the world. And the party is just an adventurous ferry ride away.
How to get to the world's 'most remote nightclub' on the Isle of Coll
The Caledonian MacBrayne ferry ride from picturesque Oban to the Isle of Coll takes just over two and a half hours. But consider that time as all part of the fun. Keep your eyes peeled for dolphins and whales, and depending on the time of day, the onboard Mariners Café is the perfect place to devour a traditional Scottish breakfast, snack on light bites, or share a Stornoway black pudding pizza. There's also a coffee cabin for those needing a little pick-me-up before a weekend of late nights.
While the Isle of Coll is not known as one of Europe's best cities for a lively nightlife scene, the pop-up party of the year will take place in the "heart of Coll's community," An Cridhe. The community center is a multipurpose space that's a 15-minute walk from the Coll Ferry Terminal.
While here for the party, take time to check out the island. It's a beautiful place with so much to explore, like gin tasting, hiking, swimming or kayaking in the sea, enjoying a pint at the Coll Hotel, and tasting fresh fish and local cuisine. It's also easy to get around. The island is only 3 miles wide and 13 miles long. Visitors can rent bikes or hire private cars, but they might not have to. According to Visit Coll, "You may even be offered a lift, even if you don't stick your thumb out!"
What to expect at Detour Discotheque
Detour Discotheque's tagline is "Journey into the cosmos," apparently influenced by the island's International Dark Sky Community designation and the fact that the Isle of Coll is one of the best places to stargaze. Partygoers can expect cosmic sounds of the '70s and '80s. The impressive lineup includes London and Glasgow-based DJs and producers, as well as the Isle of Coll's very own ceilidh band. No matter who's on stage, attendees are in for a treat!
While the party will likely be a range of local and international guests, Detour Discotheque confirmed, "There will be around 80 tickets for residents of Coll, and 130 tickets for non-residents." These numbers mean that the party will likely be larger than the island's total population of permanent residents.
Currently, Detour Discotheque 2023 is sold out, but additional tickets will be available for the island's permanent residents closer to the party. Join the Detour Discotheque mailing list to hear about more ticket releases and other fun events.