It was with considerable anticipation that Phil and I viewed
Port Ellen as the ferry from Kintyre...
...approached the terminal on Islay's southern coast. Islay's characteristic whitewashed buildings with black painted windows crowded round the bays on either side of the jetty.
We then drove north to Islay's second terminal,
Port Askaig.
As we launched from the little harbour, the flood tide was already surging north through the Sound of Islay.
No sooner had we crossed the eddy line, than we were being propelled northwards, at a very respectable 15km/hour.
After we passed two big, white washed buildings called Caol Ila and Bunnahabhain (with pleasantly intoxicating aromas emanating from both) we were surrounded by wilderness. Only the pipping of oystercatchers and the gentle rippling of the tide disturbed the silence.
The magnificent Paps of Jura, towered over the far side of the Sound ...
...but at this speed, we soon left them behind.
Learn more about this fabulous island at
Islayblog.com and
Islay weblog
Hey, your journey looks fantastic. I like the seals eye view of Port Askaig. Where are you going?
ReplyDeletefrom Rachel
www.wildandmagicislay.com
Ah... fantastic!
ReplyDeleteWe have to wait until August until we see Jura again...
Have you discovered the coffee shop at Port Ban, just up from Kilberry?
Hi Douglas,I hope you have found a sheltered campsite to bunker down for a few days. Your trip will bring back some fantastic memories for me from last year. Look forward to your updates. Safe paddling.
ReplyDeleteDavid A
(BWD)
Rachel we were headed for sunny Bowmore via the Rhinns of Islay. However, as David A also knows, there is no guarantee of getting there!
ReplyDeleteHello David B, I hope August is fair! My great grandfather holidayed at Kilberry. Since the family lived 41km away in Minard Loch Fyne, it seemed very remote and exotic!
Hi David A, I wish you great kayaking in 2011, I am glad you liked Loch Craignish!
:o)