KIRKAPOL CHAPELS
THE EARLIEST SCOTTISH CLAYMORE CARVING & RELIGIOUS CENTRE FOR AT LEAST 1300 YEARS
Behind the Tiree Lodge Hotel, overlooking Gott Bay, are the ruins of two fascinating medieval chapels at Kirkapol. The larger building dates from the 14th century and was dedicated to Saint Columba and served as Tiree’s main parish church. Nearby are the remains of an older chapel from the 13th century. The beautifully carved grave slabs include a 15th-century stone thought to show one of the earliest carvings of a Scottish claymore sword. Close to the chapels are rocks marked with ancient cross carvings, hinting at the island’s early Christian heritage. Even the name Kirkapol tells part of the story. It comes from the Norse word Kirkjuból, meaning “Church Farm,” suggesting this area may have been a place of worship as far back as the Viking era (800–1200 AD).
Start / End: Tiree Lodge Hotel, Gott Bay Isle of Tiree, PA77 6TW. This can also be combined with a walk along the bay to Mallachdaig – the Little Accursed One
Park and Meet: Parking as indicated on Gott Bay or Tiree Lodge.
Walking Distance: ~1.5 km (out and back) – 30–40 minutes
Terrain: Easy (mostly flat grass)
THE LITTLE ACCURSED ONE – MALLACHDAIG
AN UNLUCKY ROCK CURSED BY FISHERMEN AND ST COLUMBA
Just off the coast near Gott Bay, lies one of Tiree’s most intriguing little landmarks: Mallachdaig, a small rocky stack whose Gaelic name means “the little accursed one.” This rock carries a reputation that has fascinated locals and visitors for generations. It was considered unlucky by sailors with boats avoiding passing too close to it, believing misfortune could follow. According to other legends, St Columba tied his coracle to a bunch of seaweed growing on this rock during a visit to Tiree. When he found his coracle floating free sometime later because the seaweed had given way, he put a curse on the rock that nothing would ever grow on it again. Whether you’re interested in local folklore, coastal scenery, or simply the stories behind unusual place names, Mallachdaig – the Little Accursed One – offers a glimpse into the island’s rich mix of landscape and legend.
Start/ End: See Kirkapol Chapels
Park and Meet: Gott Bay
Walking Distance: From Tiree Lodge ~1km (out and back) – 20 mins.
Terrain: Sandy beach