Islay Nature Centre
If you are looking for things to do on Islay then why not explore the fabulous Islay wildlife indoors? If it is a rainy day it makes for the perfect place to visit and is great for kids!
Visit the Islay Nature Centre, Port Charlotte
If you are looking for things to do on Islay on a Scottish rainy day? Then why not take a trip to the Islay Nature Centre where you can explore the outdoors indoors? Islay has an abundance of spectacular wildlife given its large array of ecosystems and expanse of unspoilt countryside and coastline. The centre, situated in Port Charlotte is home to many displays and information on the island wildlife and has much to offer both children and adults making for a great day out with the family.
Book NowDiscover Islay wildlife
Explore the Islay wildlife through rich displays that provide detailed information on the island’s habitats, geology and residents. Learn about Islay butterflies, birds, mammals and wildflowers through exciting and interactive exhibits. There are touch tanks where you can explore freshwater and marine creatures, microscopes where you can explore natural objects in closer detail, an area where you can create artwork from seaweed and even an activity where you can have a go at dissecting an owl pellet! The centre also houses a large database of over 3057 species which you can browse through using a touchscreen computer. You can even send in your own records that can be added to this.
Family activities and more
The centre runs family activities that include mini-wildlife adventures and there is also a family-friendly map that provides more information on wildlife. There is a walking programme that explores the island and its nature. Evening talks are also held in the centre and anyone is welcome to join. Check the website for up-and-coming events.
Get in touch to find out more
If you want to find out more about visiting Islay Nature Centre, take a look at the Islay Natural History website. If you are still to book your holidays and you are looking for somewhere to stay on Islay we offer a choice of cosy accommodation in our delightful cottages. Get in touch with us today on 07880 706 356 or drop us an email here. We would love to welcome you, as you visit to learn all about our fabulous wildlife and habitats!
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.
