Southern Hebrides

"Having already spent a few idyllic days on Islay, soaking up the sun, scenery and wildlife, we did not expect this experience to be bettered. However, a day's jaunt over to Jura provided yet more wonders. Drinking beer outside the hotel in sweltering temperatures, it was hard not to believe we were in the Caribbean, with palm trees, azure sea and yachts anchored in the bay. We then discovered the delightful gardens of Jura House. Some welcome shade was given in the walk through the woods to the beach. Here we found 'singing sands' and lots of sheltered rocky nooks, where we could lie and contemplate the view back to Islay. Days don't come much more perfect than that!"
G Duthie, Midlothian, Scotland

"Our trip to Islay was a journey of a lifetime. We boarded the ferry at Ardrossan for Arran where we had B&B a few days. We then crossed to Mull of Kintyre for a couple of days, before sailing to Islay from Tarbet. We had a most glorious time exploring Islay, and on Jura we found a lovely garden (in the gulf stream) and shared tea and scones - a real scottish treat! The Islay bird sancturay and fishing Macrell for tea are never to be forgotten experiences. Cant wait to go again."

Mr D White, Lancashire

"We took the road northwards from Campbeltown to Claonaig on our BMW motorcycle. It was a perfect crystal clear day and from high above, the sea had all the shades of blue from turquoise to deep marine. The way ahead twisted, turned, climbed and dropped through lush glens and sparkling burns. We reached the slipway at Claonaig well in time to see the CalMac heading towards us. Once safely onboard, I remarked about how fabulous was that "long and winding road", at which we both burst into the song with everyone else on board looking bemused. The following Christmas I was given a book about the origins of Beatles songs. Imagine the feeling when I found out that the inspiration for "The Long and Winding Road" was that very same journey."

Mr O Wright, Leicestershire

"Gigha, a sanctuary of peace and quite. The ferry crew will chat to you on the way over, and relay the information around the isle. Instantly you are almost a local. Don't make the mistake of trying to 'do' Gigha in a day trip, stay overnight, dine by the harbour and just unwind.Fantastic."

Mr G Stark, Shetland

"Watching the sun go down from somewhere above Port Askaig and see the Paps of Jura in the red shade is one of the most beautiful experiences I've had in my life. It’s like falling in love with the person you love for the rest of your life."

 Mr R Klingens, Netherlands

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