Dotting the edge of the Isle of Seil like a full stop is the charming Isle of Easdale. Just under an hour's drive from Taynuilt, the former slate islands of Seil and Easdale are fascinating places to explore.
The Isle of Seil is separated from the mainland by a sliver of sea and reached via the 18th century 'Bridge over the Atlantic' (otherwise known as Clachan Bridge).
The main village on Seil is Ellenabeich, with its pretty lines of whitewashed cottages built in the 18th century for those working in the slate quarries. It is also the stepping stone for hopping over to Easdale; the car-free and smallest permanently inhabited Inner Hebridean island.
Once on Easdale you can take in the beautiful views and slate-filled landscape by walking around the island, visit the award-winning Easdale Island Folk Museum and enjoy lunch or homebaking in the excellent Puffer Bar and Restaurant.
The Easdale Island Folk Museum (open March - mid October) is a great place to learn more about the island's past, with displays on the slate industry, geology, boats and much more. There is also a craft area selling slate goods, locally handmade crafts, preserves, cards and wooden furniture.
No trip to Easdale is complete without a visit to the Puffer Bar and Restaurant. With its lovely sea views, friendly atmosphere and fresh, locally sourced food it's a great place to enjoy a drink or meal while you wait for the ferry back to Ellenabeich.
On the last Sunday of September each year the island becomes the arena for the World Stone Skimming Championships - where better to skim stones than an old slate quarry?! Anyone of any age can compete, and competitors can register on the day (Sunday 28th) at the Easdale Island Community Hall. There is also a Pre-Skim Party on Saturday 27th in the Community Hall, with live music and a licensed bar.
Ellenabeich on the Isle of Seil is also home to Seafari Adventures - read more about their wildlife watching and Corrywreckan whirlpool boat trips here.
No comments:
Post a Comment