The following morning, we took the ferry from Port Ellen back to Kennacraig and headed to Loch Goil, where we spent a few days relaxing in a loch-side wood cabin, hiking, eating lots of tasty salmon, putting around the Loch on a boat, and enjoying some of the Scotch we picked up in Islay.
Because of our heavy whisky focus and limited time during this trip, there are certainly a few things that we didn’t get to experience on Islay. We’d love to see the Corryvreckan whirlpool, go on some coastal hikes, do more biking, experience all 18 Machrie links, and do some fishing/foraging – we’ll have to go back sometime soon!
What to do
Islay Cycles
Friendly Jim in Port Ellen will hook you up with lovely Raleigh bicycles. Perfect for biking the “Three Distilleries Trail.”
Ardbeg
Fantastic distillery with very high quality tours and a variety of whiskies at many different price points.
Laphraoig
Peat lovers would be remiss to skip Laphraoig! Plus you get to see traditional malting floors.
Bunnahabhain
Our favorite experience of our trip was the Warehouse 9 tour at Bunnahabain. It’s not to be missed.
Bruichladdich
Bruichladdich offers the best “bang for your buck” on the island. The £5 Distillery Tour is top notch.
Where to eat
SeaSalt Bistro
Bistro and takeaway restaurant in Port Ellen featuring delicious fresh seafood specials and tasty fish and chips.
Peatzeria
Tasty pizza in Bowmore – really hits the spot after a Scotch tasting!
Lochindaal Hotel
Unassuming restaurant with top notch seafood platters. Book in advance!
Where to stay
Swallows’ Roost
Semi self-catering accommodation (fridge, toaster, coffee supplies, etc. but no cook top) near Port Ellen.
Islay House
If you’re looking for more luxurious accommodations, Islay House is the way to go. This historic country hotel offers amazing service and facilities while maintaining a quaint Scottish character.
Are you planning a trip somewhere in Europe? We can help with that! Remember that we are always available to you and your friends and family for custom trip planning to Europe. We are experts in creating custom travel itineraries and leading small group trips in Europe. Feel free to reach out via email — I’m always available to talk about travel!!
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