Scotland: Islay and Jura8th Jul 2024
From:£2,095
Summary
Islay represents the southern extreme of the Inner Hebrides. Once the ancient home of the Lord of the Isles, who ruled the Hebrides from two islets on Loch Finlaggan, Islay has always been popular with archaeologists and historians. Today the island is perhaps better known for its distinctive malt whiskies, its sandy beaches and its diverse birdlife. While we are here we visit the Ardnahoe Distillery, the newest distillery on the island, and Loch Gruinart RSPB Nature Reserve where we have the opportunity to hopefully see many bird species.
To the north-east is Islay’s neighbour Jura, an untamed and rather mysterious island with just 200 human inhabitants, dominated by the “Paps of Jura”. The northern end of the island was home to George Orwell, where he wrote his masterpiece “1984”.
Completing our trio of islands we offer an optional excursion to Colonsay, with its glorious beaches and a superb woodland garden, famous for its outstanding collection of rhododendrons.
What to Expect
- Varied birdlife at the RSPB reserve
- The spectacular setting of Ardnahoe distillery
- On the trail of the Lords of the Isles at Loch Finlaggan
- Peace and quiet on the island of Jura
- Optional excursion to the tranquil little island of Colonsay
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Kiloran Bay
Departure Routes
| Location | Pickup Time | Dropoff Time |
|---|---|---|
| To be advised | 00:00 | 00:00 |
| Dundee - Outside Discovery Point | 04:30 | 20:15 |
| Perth - Broxden Park & Ride, A93 | 05:00 | 19:45 |
| Kinross - Moto Services on M90 | 06:00 | 18:45 |
| Dunfermline - Halbeath Park & Ride, Jct 3, M90 | 06:15 | 18:30 |
| Edinburgh - Outside Reception of the Delta by Marriott Hotel, Glasgow Road | 06:45 | 18:15 |
| Glasgow - Bus stop on North Hanover Street, opposite Queens Street Station | 08:00 | 17:00 |
** Please note that all timings are approximate and subject to change. Final timings and pick-up points will be confirmed with your joining instructions approximately 10 days prior to departure. **
Day by Day Itinerary
We depart from our local pick-up points and head for Kintyre in western Argyll, in time to catch the afternoon ferry from Kennacraig to Islay. The ferry journey takes just over two hours and refreshments are available on board (not included). On arrival on Islay we transfer to our comfortable accommodation.
Meals includedNone
