8 July – Islay at it’s Finest

Oh wow… if today had been our last day in Scotland we couldn’t have been happier… and yet there’s a few more days to enjoy! Enjoy we did today… perfect blue sky and bright warm sun, a woolen craft shop that had Kathy’s eyes sparkling, the bright ocean at Machir Bay that sparkled just as much, three Islay distilleries with delicious (if pricey) single malt, an Islay brewery, and a lovely meal in a community campground café on the ocean’s edge. We took 170 photos (getting our average up!) so here are a few of the best.

We enjoy seeing all the lighthouses on the islands we've visited.

We never know what to expect around the next curve!

A little one next to her moved, but Mom was unperturbed by the car.

We always have to watch for sheep.

A good example of the "gasp" factor.

At Tormisdale Croft (farm) Craft Shop Kathy found a soul-mate and enjoyed an hour chatting about all things wool. She even found a beautiful letter opener for Dan... the handle made from a stag (a male red deer more than five years old) antler.

While Kathy and Ann chatted, Dan went for a wonderful hike down a lane between the pastures and to the edge of the Atlantic. The scenery and peace were breath-taking and life-giving!

Port Mor Campground and Cafe is very nicely set up, kept, good food, and has beautiful scenery!

Bruickladdich and Kilchoman both have very nice malt whiskey that is finished in sherry casks. Kilchoman grows barley on the property for its Machir Bay blend, so it has every part of its production on the local property.

Ardnahoe Distillery won't open on Islay until 2018, (being built at location on map in upper right) but it's Glasgow base provides spirits for sale already. Very pricey!

The beers produced on Islay are good... better than Shetland Ale (in my humble opinion!)

We ended the day with a trip to Machir Bay... the sand, sun, and sparkling water were wonderful to behold... Kathy and I enjoyed it immensely... we hated to leave!