Scottish wildlife
Experience Scottish wildlife on Islay
Our isle is a haven for anyone wanting to experience Scottish wildlife. It is the perfect place to enjoy everything that nature has to offer. Take a look at what is in store if you decide to go and explore …
Spectacular Scottish wildlife
In the air …
Scotland is well-known for its stunning scenery and abundant wildlife. Islay is no exception, given that there are more than 200 different species of birds on the island. Including the famous Greenland barnacle geese that return every winter. Spring, sees new varieties of birds arrive on the island for breeding. The air is full of songs from corncrakes, lapwings, larks, and more. All hoping to find a new mate.
Puffins, oystercatchers, choughs, and golden eagles are among the other species that can be spotted on the island. Birds from as far afield as Africa visit Islay each year. And some travel all the way around the world, like the Arctic tern.
Islay truly is absolute heaven for any Twitcher or amateur birdwatcher!
On the ground …
If birdwatching isn’t your thing, don’t worry! Any walking route, will make sure you see more than your fair share of Scottish wildlife. Brown hares can be seen racing around the heathlands. There is an interesting legend that surrounds Islay’s hares. It is believed that they contain the spirits of islanders who have passed. Stoats can be seen too, if you’re quick enough. They are incredibly fast!
Otters call the streams and rivers on the island home. And there are three species of deer to spot. You will need a little patience to see the otter and deer as they can be a little shy. Oh, and watch out for the wild goats.
The diverse nature of the habitats across the island encourages a large array of butterflies, moths, and other insects. Maybe a mini-beast trail is in order?
In the water …
Islay has a large great seal colony on its coast. Most are in a Special Area of Conservation. A boat trip is the best way to see them. While you are on your way to meet the seals, you might be in for an extra special treat. You can sometimes see basking sharks and minke whales. You may even see some dolphins frolicking in the sea.
Islay truly is a haven for nature lovers. And, if you’ve had all the fresh air you need, you can relax in one of our fabulous cottages. You’ll wake up, recharged and ready, for your next adventure on the island.
Everything 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.
