Experience life on a Hebridean Island, Apiaries, Beekeeping

United States

5

My time on the Isle of Coll was amazing! Val & Graham are the best hosts and love to include you in every part of their life. They introduced me to so many locals and ensured I was able to participate in all community events. After hitchhiking on a tractor, swimming in the freezing ocean, hiking over sand dunes, running in a half marathon, dancing at a Ceilidh, and learning everything there is to know about beekeeping, this island truly feels like a second home (even in just two short weeks).

6 days ago

United States

5

This has been an incredible experience. While I learned SO MUCH about bees, Val and Graham made the experience. They are some of the kindest, most generous, most welcoming people I've ever met. I am in a transitional period in my life, and they were understanding and kind when I felt overwhelmed at the prospect of my future. They gave me clothes to work in when what I had wasn't quite good enough, and they opened their home to me. The cabin I stayed in was so nice and private, and I loved all the animals around the farm. Again, this was an incredible experience and I hope to visit again soon☺️

17 days ago

Valentina replied

Thanks so much Suzanne, I am sorry my departure was so rushed 💚

Canada

5

Coll is a fantastic little place and Val and Graham are so welcoming and hospitable. The bee work is interesting and Graham really knows his stuff. The island is quiet but there's no shortage of interesting characters and stories, and there are opportunities to go out and meet people often. It's a refreshing and peaceful place where you can slow down and learn to live more simply. I recommend the experience to anyone and I look forward to going back again in the future!

3 months ago

Valentina replied

Thank you so much Ethan 💓

Australia

5

Thank you so much to Val and Graham!! Despite being with them in the off season, I was still able to engage with the bees and work on the product labelling/soap making which I enjoyed! Both of them took me under their wing as family straight away showing me around Coll, hanging out with the locals at different town events and visiting family and friends in the island. I look forward to coming back in the summer to see the flip side of Coll and get more hands on with the bees! In the meantime I'll miss our family movie nights, delicious meals, crazy weather and cat cuddles from Toto 🥰

9 months ago

Valentina replied

Awww Maddie 🥰

New Zealand

5

I cannot praise Val and Graham enough. They are so welcoming, friendly, positive, and kind people, that make you feel a part of the family. I wish I could have stayed longer! They are amazing teachers too when it comes to the bees as well, and it was really informative and interesting helping them out. The accomodation is lovely, and the Isle of Coll is a pretty wee island with friendly locals that I would recommend anyone to visit. This was my first world packers experience, one I highly doubt will ever be topped :)

about 1 year ago

Mexico

5

Val and Graham are one of if not the most welcoming people I've ever met.. from the moment you step foot on the island they will receive you with a warm welcome, tea and lots of biscuits and of course an incredible natural landscape away from the turmoil of the city. The tasks were incredibly easy and light as far as time is concerned.. so you have lots of time to explore , surf or bike \ hike around the island. Do not hesitate just apply :)

about 1 year ago

Valentina replied

Dear Kerim,
Thank you so much for choosing us for your project.
I thought I had reviewed you but not sure it went through, will need to check
You made a really positive impact and we are so glad you enjoyed your stay here with us,
You are part of the family now, we will welcome you back dear one xxx 😊❤

Denmark

5

My first experience volunteering with Worldpackers was unforgettable, thanks to Val and Graham's incredible hospitality. Their kindness and warmth made me feel right at home, and I'm already planning my next visit. Even though graham had to leave early, I still enjoyed the beework, the travel stories from him and the jokes. I spend most of my time with Val, Maya, Toto, and Droco. Val is incredibly at creating a cozy atmosphere, whether through soap-making, binge-watching our favorite show, having visitors, exploring the incredible nature or visiting the community. Can't wait to come back❤️

over 1 year ago

Chile

5

I loved my time in Coll. Val made me feel welcomed and looked after. We had nice and interesting conversations. I feel grateful they had me over and if I could I would go back. I'll miss going swimming and making soap!. Working with the bees was really cool. I 100% recommend coming here :) Keep in mind that as it is in a fairly rural area, they don't have running water yet. So if it's important to you, ask about the water situation. In all honesty, you get used to it really fast and you really learn to value water. It's worth the initial discomfort. Thank you for your kindness Val.

almost 2 years ago

United States

5

I stayed only one week with Val and Graham, and it was an amazing experience!! I didn't know what to expect as it was my first world packers experience, but it is possible they have RUINED all future worldpacker stays in the best way possible. Everyone on Coll is incredibly inviting, and from day one, I felt like a member of the community and of the family. The work is manageable, and time is respected. In time off, you can explore the island, visit Tiree or neighboring Islands via ferry, or just hang out with the locals in the town center. I can not recommend this experience more!!

about 2 years ago

Israel

5

My experience was great, maybe the best so far! Graham and Val are amazing hosts. They make you feel home - comfortable accommodation, great food, very convenient working hours (with bees!) And the place is so beautiful! I definitely recommend this experience 🙂🙏🏼

about 2 years ago

Valentina replied

Please stay in touch Alex, we love you now, happy homeward journey ❤

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