The Island

The Isle of Islay, 'Queen of the Hebrides', is situated in the southern Hebrides with views of Northern Ireland which lies 30 miles away. Islay boasts eight working distilleries, literary and jazz festivals amongst other events - even including it's own half marathon! ‘Feis Ile’ the annual festival of malt and music takes place in late May each year and attracts large numbers of visitors to the Island.

Further information on events, travel around the island and even the weather can be found at

www.islayinfo.com

 

Islay Wildlife

Islay is home to an array of plant, bird and animal species. It is most famed for being the winter home for 37,000 Barnacle and 13,000 White Fronted Geese. There is also a healthy breeding population of Chough.

Golden Eagles soar through the clouds while Hen Harriers patrol the heathers and Merlin and Peregrines can often be seen at lower levels.

Puffins are summer visitors on their passage between breeding colonies and the high seas. Roe and Red Deer are a common sight while Otters can be seen with a bit of patience.

Common and Grey Seals can be seen from the windows of Burnside Lodge on a daily basis, we also have regular visits from basking sharks and dolphins. Sitting in the garden you can watch Gannets plunge into the sea as they try to catch their lunch, while during the winter, Eider Duck regularly bob up and down in the bay.