About The Isle of Islay
Islay boasts some very fine hand craft shops which are worth a visit, such as the Persabus Pottery in Port Askaig and the Islay Woollen Mill near Bridgend. Islay House Square in Bridgend, located in the centre of Islay, is home to Islay Ales, the Islay Quilters, Elizabeth Sykes Batics and several other interesting shops. The neighbouring Bridgend woodland is perfect for fine sheltered walks along the river Sorn, specially in springtime when the grounds are covered with bluebells. There is the famous golf links at Machrie, where visitors are welcome. Below the seas surrounding Islay lie many wrecks which provide interesting dives for the experienced diver. Islay is renowned for its huge variety of birds and wildlife and is home to the RSPB at Loch Gruinart which includes a worthy visitors centre. There are many rare winged visitors to Islay including barnacle geese in the winter time, chough and corncrake. In Bowmore, the islands main centre, the Mactaggart Leisure Centre comprises a superb swimming pool, sauna and fitness gym open each week from Tuesday to Sunday. Adjacent is Morrisons Bowmore Distillery, one of the eight working distilleries on Islay and welcoming visitors for a tour and dram. Close to The Oystercatcher B&B are Ardbeg, Lagavulin and Laphroaig Distillery. Bowmore famous Round Church stands at the top of Main Street, overlooking the village. |
The historical significance of Islay cannot be over emphasised. It is from Finlaggan, the cradle of the Clan Donald, that much of Argyll was ruled by the Lords of the Isles. Here, in the ancient burial ground is the grave of Robert the Bruces grand-daughter, and there is a seasonal visitors cottage on-site. Religion played a major part in Islays history, with many carved stones, including the Kildalton Cross.
More info and pictures can be found on the Ultimate Islay Guide which offers a wealth of information, history, accommodation, maps and pictures. About the Islay Picture BlogThe Islay Picture Blog started in December 2008 and is there for every visitor and resident of Islay who wants to see his or her pictures featured on this picture blog. If you are interested to see your Islay picture(s) featured on the Islay Picture Blog you can send them to me by email through the feedback form. The minimum size of your picture has to be 2048x1536 pixels and not more than 5Mb. Thanks very much and I hope you enjoy the new Islay Photoblog. |
The Isle of Islay offers the visitor a peaceful and relaxing holiday with miles of 
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