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Samhchair

Visitors can enjoy spectacular panoramic views to Port Ellen, the Mull of Kintyre and Antrim while observing the local wildlife. Golden eagles, buzzards, herons, feral goats, highland cattle, otters, seals and dolphins may all be spotted from the terrace overlooking the sea. Close to air and ferry ports, Samhchair makes the ideal base for touring the island. Ardbeg, Laphroaig and Lagavulin distilleries, the championship Machrie Golf Links, the famous Kildalton high cross and the Oa nature reserve and monument are all close at hand. Fishing, walking and cycling (we have two bikes available) are all popular pursuits in the beautiful surrounding countryside. While, if you wish to venture further afield, no destination on the island is more than 45 minutes away by car.

The island of Islay is 25 miles (40km) in length and around 20 miles (32km) wide at most. Thanks largely to the Gulf Stream, it has a fairly temperate climate. It is famous for its abundant wildlife, beautiful scenery and its whisky distilleries. There are many golden sandy beaches that rarely have more than a couple of people on them at any one time, making them ideal for getting away from it all.

Islay is justly famous for its malt whiskies. There are currently eight working distilleries on the island, several of which offer guided tours and include a free dram! Those who appreciate the fine taste and variety of the Islay malts will no doubt savour a pilgrimage to the origin of their favourite tipple.

There are many interesting historical and archaeological sites to visit on Islay. Kildalton Church and the famous Kildalton Cross (the best preserved high cross in Scotland) both date from around 800 A.D. Finlaggan, the administrative capital of the Lords of the Isles from the 14th to the 16th century, has a visitor centre which houses a number of archaeological finds and a model of how the site might have looked during its heyday. Also worth a visit are the standing stones at Ballinaby, the stone circle at Coultoon and the large and impressive Iron Age fort at Dun Nosebridge. The Museum of Islay Life at Port Charlotte presents a fascinating insight into the social history of the island.

Islay is a haven for birdwatchers, and has a reputation for attracting unusual birds. The RSPB Scotland Visitor Centre at Loch Gruinart delivers a fascinating glimpse into the birdlife there and has closed circuit television providing close-up coverage of various species of Islay birds with their young.

Samhchair has one twin and one double bedroom. Each bedroom offers en-suite facilities, satellite television, free wireless internet connection, tea and coffee making facilities, hair dryer and iron. Drying facilities are also available on request.

There is also a guests' lounge where you can relax in comfort to chat about your day, read, play a board game, listen to music or watch television on a wide screen.

The rate is from £40 per person per night, inclusive of full Scottish breakfast.

Samhchair is a non-smoking house and, unfortunately, does not have facilities for pets. Payment by cash or cheque is requested as we do not have facilities to accept credit cards.

Maggie and Robin look forward to welcoming you to Samhchair and to 'tranquillity'!