Walking holidays on Islay
Are you looking for the perfect walking holiday in Scotland? Our self-guided walking holidays offer you the best opportunity to explore our stunning island…
The perfect walking holiday in Scotland
Are you looking for the perfect walking holiday in Scotland? Then read on! Self-guided walking holidays on Islay are popular. They offer you the best opportunity to explore our Scottish Island at your own pace. So whether you like a good workout, striding the island ahead of the pack, or wish to take in the scenery and surroundings at a gentler pace, the island really is your oyster. Walks in Scotland are at their most scenic on this island.
Book NowGroup and family walking holidays
Here at Islay Cottages, we can offer you the perfect outdoor activity holiday. With a plethora of walking routes, lunch stops and outdoor pursuits you can plan a comprehensive personal agenda for a great day out. Our independent walking holidays run in 3, 5 and 7-night packages. And with a variety of walking levels from easy to strenuous, there is something for everyone. You can see a list of graded walks here. Furthermore, we can also help you arrange group walking holidays and singles walking holidays with guided walks on Islay and Jura. Simply contact us here and we will put you in touch with our island walking guides. Self-guided family walking holidays are also very popular on Islay – and perfect for kids from the age of 4 upwards. Download your walks here and find out more.
Book NowWhat’s included when you stay with us:
- Cosy self-catering accommodation
- Free WiFi
- Free parking
- 5-minute walk from the beach
- Next to Kilchoman Whisky Distillery
- A choice of beautiful walks on your doorstep
Here to help
Want to walk a bit longer? It’s easy to combine two or more stays for a longer walking holiday. Our staff are always on hand should you need any guidance or further pointers, or if you simply need something extra to help you make the most of your holiday. We are a family-run business and live on the Island so we know about all the hidden gems. For example, where to go to see the seals basking in the sun, where to look out for golden eagles and how to make the most of your walking vacation in Scotland. Just ask and we will sort it all out for you.
Get in touch today
So whether you’re looking for walking weekend breaks, group hikes, or independent walking holidays, you will not be disappointed with a walking holiday on Islay. For self-guided walking holidays, you can book via the booking button below or contact us here. Be sure upon booking to quote WALKHOLIDAY in the voucher code box on the online booking form or to mention it when you call. We look forward to welcoming you on your walking holiday in Scotland.
Book NowEverything was to a good standard, the beds were comfortable and the wi-fi connection was more than adequate for such a remote location (we didn’t use the TV/DVD). The living room and kitchen area is perfect for relaxing in the evenings, and you’ll be amazed at the quiet ! If your idea of the perfect holiday is getting out into the wilds and exploring miles of unspoilt beauty, this is the place for you. I am certain it is popular with walkers, but you can also do many exciting trips by car (which you’ll need anyway to get around !). Some of the roads do get a bit funky in places, and it’s largely single track with passing places, but you soon get used to this, and the courtesy between drivers is generally a joy to experience.
The Kilchoman cottages are near three absolutely stunning beaches, all within 4/5 miles: Machir Bay, Saligo Bay and Sanaigmore, it was impossible to choose between them, but we visited each one at least twice. Perhaps the most scenic beaches we’ve ever seen, with beautiful rock formations, white sand and totally unspoilt (and indeed generally deserted !)
There’s also the possibility to take a day trip over to the nearby island of Jura, the famous `paps’ (mountains) add a stunning back drop to so many places on Islay. It is a photographer’s dream. Life is simpler here, and in many ways it had not changed at all for me since 1972 ! A lifetime dream fulfilled to come back here, and I wasn’t disappointed ! We were very very lucky with the weather, which does help, and on a good day I wouldn’t hesitate to call it paradise.
Handy hints: Take plenty of basic provisions with you, but the Co-op in Bowmore is up to modern standards for most of your needs, we only needed a couple of trips there to restock in two weeks. If you’re big on nightlife and bustle, give it a miss…but if you love nature, beauty and fresh air….it can’t be beaten.
