Category Archives: About Islay

Not a Whisky Spirit! Ghost stories from Islay Scotland

Scottish Ghost Stories from the island of Islay Whisky is by far the most famous spirit on Islay, our Scottish island. But with Halloween looming, we thought we would look at some of the other types of spirits that inhabit this ancient place. And some Scottish Halloween traditions. If you like Scottish ghost stories, then […]

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Eco-holidays with sustainable food and bike hire on Islay

Ensuring your holiday is as environmentally friendly as possible is important to many people who visit the island. So there are now many ways you can do this, including bike hire on Islay or the use of electric vehicles to get around and see the sights. Here are a few ways you can go green whilst staying with us on Islay. 

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A Brief History of Islay

Islay Prehistory The history of Islay goes back to when hunter-gatherers settled here many thousands of years ago. With the discovery of Mesolithic and Ice Age artefacts in the area, researchers have come to the conclusion that Islay was occupied from around 10,000 BC. You can see many of these ancient tools and other items […]

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Our Favourite Islay Distilleries

Asides from Islay’s stunning natural beauty, if there’s one thing our island can hold a claim to fame about. And that’s producing world class malt whisky! Of course, with eight distilleries on the island alone, it can be hard to know where to begin. But don’t worry, we’re here to give you an insight into our favourite whisky distilleries on Islay.

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Nature Retreats to Islay

Islay is famous for its spectacular wildlife and is home to many species. A beautiful, peaceful and easily-accessible island of the Inner Hebrides, it’s the perfect place to visit for a Scottish nature and wildlife retreat. 

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Romantic Island Escape

Are you looking for romantic breaks in Scotland? Then why not make an adventure of it and visit the stunning Scottish island of Islay? Islay is a perfect romantic getaway, with scenery and views to set any heart fluttering! With Valentines Day just around the corner, this could be the perfect gift for your loved one to get those sparks flying!

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Bird Watching on Islay

Here on the Scottish island of Islay, around 100 species of bird live within a variety of habitats! From open moorland and hills to rugged cliff faces, woodland, mud flats and beaches, you are really spoiled for choice when it comes to bird watching on Islay! So, let’s delve into the detail of what you can expect to see here, be you a beginner or a pro!

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Creative Retreats for Writer’s Block

Dying to put pen to paper and churn out that next chapter of your debut novel? Perhaps you’ve simply had enough of your final year university dissertation? Writer’s retreats can work absolutely wonders … and Islay Cottages is the destination for you!

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