An Easter Eigg
14 people attending
10 places left
Come and Eigg-splore the Eigg-stremely wonderful small isle! Are you Eigg-cited yet for it'll be a cracking weekend??
Eigg is a green island - in more ways than one - with a verdant landscape to disappear into and explore, and an electricity setup which places it as one of the most 'green' places on the planet as the island generates almost 100% of its electricity from hydro, wind and solar sources.
With a population of just 115 and at a size of only 12 square miles we are sure to get to know the island over the four days that we will be on it. And yet there is plenty packed into its small area - from the dramatic stump of An Sgurr rising to 393m that we can scramble up, across the moorlands and to the Singing Sands that is Traigh a' Bhigeil. There is plenty of history packed into the small isle with Massacre Cave to explore, a deserted township at Grulin and various ruins marking over 8000 years of people living on the land.
Bike hire is available on the island, and if the weather is kind we could hire some kayaks and get to see the island from around its coast.
Travel info - don't miss this ferry, as the next departure from Mallaig to Eigg isn't until Saturday. Boarding of the ferry is normally completed at least 10 minutes prior to the sailing time. Travel is not included in the event price, you will need to book and pay for your own transport to to and from the island.
On Friday we leave Mallaig at 08:00 to arrive on Eigg at 10:45
On Monday we depart Eigg at 17:30 to arrive at Mallaig at 18:50
Why not make an adventure of your time in the area? You could depart Eigg at 11:50 on the Monday and travel onto Rum or Canna. (Note the ferry returns to Eigg for 17:30 before heading to Mallaig)
Photos : by AMD
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IMPORTANT! - Participation Statement
You MUST complete a Participation Statement, in addition to booking your event space before attending an OutdoorLads event. You only need to complete this Participation Statement once, not for each event you attend.
What to bring
The main activity planned for the weekend is to explore the island, good walking boots are a must along with clothing for any weather - as we are on a west coast island we will get anything coming in from the Atlantic!
Boots: Hiking boots are arguably the most essential piece of kit when hiking just about anywhere. Walker’s should make sure that their boots are both waterproof and breathable, and provide good ankle support. Boots should also be in good condition.
Socks: A good comfy pair of walking socks is essential really; they keep your feet warm and drier than normal socks.
Gaiters: Gaiters attach to the bottom of walking boots and extend to just under the knee. They provide waterproofing for the bottom half of the leg. They are not essential to have but you will feel the difference if you have them when walking through muddy or boggy ground - which is almost guaranteed in Scotland.
Walking Trousers: You should have a suitable pair of trousers for walking in, jeans are not suitable as they take on water when wet and will make you cold. The same goes for jogging pants/tracksuit clothing.
Waterproof Trousers: Waterproof trousers are essential in case of wet weather. They are also good to be worn as a second layer as they can act as a windproof barrier, keeping the legs warm.
Base Layer: A breathable base layer should be chosen in order to let sweat escape from the body. This could be a cheaper sports top or you could go top of the range with a merino top, as cotton T-Shirts can become damp and uncomfortable when climbing a mountain.
Other Layers: On top of your base layer, you can have a variety of options such as a micro fleece, a fleece jacket or a rugby/sports top can sometimes be good. Having one or two additional layers gives you flexibility when the weather is changeable – the more layers, the more flexible you can be in adapting to the weather.
Waterproof Jacket: A good waterproof jacket is one of the most important pieces of kit you will require when hiking. Walkers should look for a jacket that is both waterproof and breathable in order for them to be protected from sweat. Materials such as Gore-tex are often the best choices but they can be expensive unless you shop sensibly, don’t forget your OutdoorLads discount for Full Members at Cotswold outlets.
Hat: As most heat is lost through the head a good hat is essential.
Gloves: Gloves are essential in the colder months, windproof or better still waterproof gloves are the best choice.
Rucksack: A good Rucksack that is comfortable to wear is essential, and required to carry both food and equipment. Day sacks should have a capacity of around 30 litres. As an option you could store your items in waterproof bags inside just in-case or ensure the bag has a waterproof bag to pull over the top.
Map & Compass: If you want to learn to be a leader or you just like to know where you are, then you can bring a map that covers the area - Ordnance Survey Explorer map 397 or Landranger 39 covers the island. It is best to bring your map either in a map case or purchase maps which are waterproof.
Mobile Phone: If you choose to bring your phone, then you are well advised to buy a waterproof bag or if that is not possible a simple food/freezer bag will suffice.
Food & drink
Friday evening - please bring an item for the buffet
For the customary Outdoorlads buffet, please bring something to feed 1 or 2 people. Be imaginative with your offering... You could bring a selection of meats or cheese, some pasta salad, fancy bread or even do a bit of baking!
Saturday & Sunday breakfast and dinner along with Monday breakfast are included in the event cost.
Friday, Saturday, Sunday & Monday lunch - you will need to bring with you.
Tea & coffee is available throughout the weekend.
Note - the MV Loch Nevis from Mallaig does not have a full food offer, only light refreshments are available on board, although it normally will do a cooked breakfast offer.
FACILITIES ON THE ISLAND
There is a small community shop and Post Office on the island selling a small selection of groceries and local products.
On the mainland the nearest shop is the Co-operative in Mallaig open 7am to 10pm daily. The closest large supermarket is a Morrisons in Fort William.