This spectacular house occupies a no less spectacular situation on the Oa (pronounced O!) the southwesternmost peninsula on the Isle of Islay. High above the shore, with a sandy beach within walking distance (wellies are provided for walking down to it), and surrounded by 150 acres of unspoilt land, Lurabus is an escapist's heaven and a totally unique experience.
The modern house is reached by a rough track, on which great care is required. However, what greets you at your destination makes the effort more than worth while. There is plenty of parking at the door. The spacious open plan living area, with open fire, has floor to ceiling window doors which lead out to a secure balcony area (furniture). In fact there are French doors in every room, to allow maximum enjoyment of the fabulous seascapes spread before them. There are views to the lighthouse and across the inlet to Port Ellen (pubs, shops.) All three of the bedrooms can be adapted to be either double or twin and have en suite shower facilities with power showers so the accommodation is very versatile and will suit all party configurations. Lurabus is, as they say, 'something else!'
Islay is particularly famous for two things, birds and whisky (not necessarily in that order!) Lurabus is well positioned for both. There is an RSPB reserve on the Oa, where you may see choughs, hen harriers, peregrines, buzzards, snow buntings, and as the cherry on the cake, Islay's very own golden eagles. Further up the island, in the autumn the landscape is covered by flocks of Brent and barnacle geese who come to feed here and who attract legions of birdwatchers.
The entire island is only 25 miles long, yet is home to no less than 7 distilleries which produce the smoky, peaty malts for which Islay is famous. The nearest of these are just beyond Port Ellen, Laphroig and Lagavulin. Lagavulin has a superb café restaurant, which provides excellent meals. (In comparison to some of the other Scottish islands, Islay is comparatively undeveloped, and you won't find too much in the way of teashops or fast food restaurants outside the main settlements.)
A little up the coast, the Machrie Hotel has an excellent 18 hole golf course. There is riding on a farm near the cottage and you can fish off the rocks. Bowmore, the island's 'capital' has a heated swimming pool (and of course, another famous distillery!) Two bicycles are available at the cottage and more can be hired locally.
The nearest shops and hotels are at Port Ellen (5m) where you will most likely arrive when coming by ferry from Kennacraig. (The ferry should be booked in advance. See www.calmac.co.uk)
Most of Islay's inhabitants live on the west side of the island. It is well worth taking a trip down the Rhinns of Islay to pretty Port Charlotte (yes, you've guessed it, distillery!) and on to Port Wemyss. A trip across to the neighbouring island of Jura by a short ferry crossing from Port Askaig is certainly not to be missed. This is 'The Island of the Deer' and you will see them everywhere. A single road runs most of the length of the island and passes Jura House with its lovely gardens, before reaching Craighouse (hotel, dis****ery), the only real settlement. Serious hillwalkers will find their main challenge here in climbing the striking Paps of Jura, which form the highest peaks in the two islands.
Heating is by oil CH (INCLUDED) and open fire. Electricity, bed linen and towels are INCLUDED. Sorry, no pets or smoking in the cottage. A refundable householder's deposit is required.
