Located in the heart of Islay the Bridgend Hotel is ideally placed for exploring the island and has been offering accommodation for 150 years! Expect a warm welcome and comfortable well-appointed rooms.
The Bridgend occupies a central position on Islay, making it an ideal base for heading north to Loch Gruinart and the Gruinart Flats in search of the tens of thousands of geese and wildfowl that overwinter here, enjoying the red deer, rut, or for heading south to the Oa peninsula.
Other attractions on the island include the 8th century Kildalton Cross at Port Ellen – one of Scotland’s finest early Christian, carved-stone crosses, and a chance to look for otters along the coastline.
Short-eared owl, eagles and hen harrier are all possible, while the peatlands that supply the whisky industry for which Islay is so well-known are, perhaps, at their most scenic in the autumn sunset.
Famous for its peat-flavoured single malt whisky, Islay also offers an excellent opportunity to see a host of wildlife amongst glorious scenery. Expert tour leader and naturalist Mike Dilger has years of experience leading trips to Scotland, with an extensive knowledge on the islands' wildlife. Find out more about Wildlife of Islay & Jura
On this writer's retreat, explore the wild spectacles of Scotland's Isle of Islay in the company of naturalist writers, Nick Acheson and Michael Warren. Combining our time in the field with literacy workshops, we explore past works and find ways of capturing the days' experiences in words. Find out more about Z) Islay in Winter for Writers
Just 40km long and 24km wide, Islay comprises a mountainous east coast and fertile, windswept south-west and numerous uninhabited islands. It has a relatively mild climate and is a haven for wildlife. It also boasts a fascinating prehistory with numerous Neolithic structures visible around the island. Find Out More about {acc:title}
British Travel Awards
Awarded Silver in Favourite Tour Operator for Nature & Wildlife 2024 & 2025
Wanderlust Reader Travel Awards
Awarded Bronze in Best Travel Company for Wildlife & Nature Holidays 2024
