The famous Machrie 18 hole links course is two miles from Cairnmore House. Designed by Willie Campbell almost 100 years ago it runs by the dunes, and every hole has dramatic views over the bay, a challenging course as the amazing surroundings will distract you. The course was ranked 78th in the world’s top 100 golf courses.
Wildlife watching, sea fishing, private charters around the island coast or just take the boat to see the famous Corryvreckan whirlpool in the Sound of Jura.
Islay is the home of single malt whisky. History suggests that Irish monks may have been the first to distill whisky on the island in the 1300’s. There are over ten distilleries on the island most of which give tours and comprehensive whisky tasting and tutorials! One for every day of the week and more.! The whisky is characterised with a peat smoke aroma unique to Islay.
Walking around this beautiful island is a life enhancing experience. Hidden Lochs, secret valleys, amazing beaches, mountains all of which support a vast quantity of wildlife from the famous red deer to golden eagles and much in between. The Three Distilleries Pathway is an example of a safe and accessible pathway which links three distilleries Laphroaig, Lagavulin and Ardbeg over a three mile route along the coast with stunning views which is wheelchair accessible.
This is a rugged and dramatic peninsula at the south of the island which is characterised by towering sea cliffs, rich moorland and wild goats. The exposed and isolated location is a nature reserve and a prime position for bird watching. The American Monument, at 65ft high is a tribute to the brave soldiers who lost their lives on the rocks below during World War 1.
Located in Port Charlotte, a quirky and chaotic arrangement of exhibits which showcase life on Islay over 12,000 from the Mesolithic era to the modern day.
Islay offers fantastic birdwatching opportunities with over 100 species being present all the years round in the diverse habitats that are on the island. There are two breathtaking bird reserves on Islay at the Oa and Loch Gruinart. Winter brings thousands of migrating geese from Canada and the Arctic Circle. In winter Islay holds 70% of the worlds Greenland Barnacle Geese. Hen Harriers, Golden Eagles, Corncrakes, Ringed Plovers, Lapwings, and Wagtails make up the multitude of species to be spotted. The Oyster Shed is also here for a spot of lunch if you wish to spend a day bird watching.
On Loch Finlaggan is an ancient settlement which was once the administrative centre of the Lordship of the Isles. They were a series of Gaelic/Viking rulers and masters of the sea who controlled the islands and part of the western mainland, separate from the Scottish monarchy. The site is of huge historical significance and a truly magical place.
A mecca for Grey seals and Harbour seals that can be seen playing in the water from the shore, also can be spotted on many of the rocky inlets around the island.
Islay offers fantastic birdwatching opportunities with over 100 species being present all the years round in the diverse habitats that are on the island. There are two breathtaking bird reserves on Islay at the Oa and Loch Gruinart. Winter brings thousands of migrating geese from Canada and the Arctic Circle. In winter Islay holds 70% of the worlds Greenland Barnacle Geese. Hen Harriers, Golden Eagles, Corncrakes, Ringed Plovers, Lapwings, and Wagtails make up the multitude of species to be spotted. The Oyster Shed is also here for a spot of lunch if you wish to spend a day bird watching.
On Loch Finlaggan is an ancient settlement which was once the administrative centre of the Lordship of the Isles. They were a series of Gaelic/Viking rulers and masters of the sea who controlled the islands and part of the western mainland, separate from the Scottish monarchy. The site is of huge historical significance and a truly magical place.
A mecca for Grey seals and Harbour seals that can be seen playing in the water from the shore, also can be spotted on many of the rocky inlets around the island.
There is bike hire available on the island if you want to explore on two wheels.
Paddle the coast on a half or full day in a kayak with a guide and see the island from a different perspective.