We are the Glasgow Young Walkers. We open the way for everyone in our local community to enjoy the pleasures of walking.
*Please note, this weekend away is for Ramblers members only*
Join Glasgow Young Walkers on a weekend away to the Isles of Islay and Jura in the Inner Hebrides. The tiny Isle of Colonsay is also accessible by ferry and is well worth visiting.
Friday, 18 April is a public holiday and many people also have Monday 21 April as a holiday, giving us a good opportunity to take advantage of the long weekend.
'The three Hebridean islands of Islay, Jura and Colonsay may be neighbours, but they contrast starkly. Islay is green and relatively fertile, with a rangle of more rugged hills in the east.. Jura is as wild and rugged as anywhere in the Highlands. Best known for its three great mountains - the Paps of Jura - the island also has its own whisky...
Colonsay may be the smallest of the three islands, but this does nothing to blunt its appeal. With fine beaches, woodland gardens, open moors and rugged hills, the island has a little of all that is best in the Hebrides.'
https://www.walkhighlands.co.uk/islay-jura/
This trip offers a huge amount of opportunities, with walks, beaches and historical sites on all three islands. Our itinerary will be largely shaped by group interest, but I suggest the following points:
Accommodation
I suggest we base ourselves on the Isle of Islay, as it has a hostel and more options for accommodations. Ferries to Jura and Colonsay depart and return from Port Askaig.
The Port Charlotte Youth hostel is roughly 15 miles from the ferry terminal. There are also a wide range of other options, although staying in Port Askaig is best for those who will be using public transport.
Getting there
Tickets for the Kennacraig to Port Askaig ferry can be purchased at: https://ticketing.calmac.co.uk/
By car: Port Askaig is roughly a five hour drive from Glasgow, including a ferry crossing from Kennacraig of 2hr 27 min. Car share is preferred for this trip, especially on the islands, so if you are willing to drive please let me know.
Public transport: The 926 CityLink bus leaves from Glasgow and stops at the Kennacraig ferry terminal. CityLink bus tickets must be purchased in advance fromhttps://booking.citylink.co.uk/#/
Walks
There are more walks to choose from than I can mention! I am happy to go with group consensus but I suggest we explore Jura on the Saturday and Islay on the Sunday. These days can include walks, distillery visits, dinners out, etc. The ferry to Jura from Port Askaig is roughly 10 minutes.
If you are interested in leading a walk please let me know.
Social
I will book a restaurant for dinner on Saturday and Sunday evenings for those who are interested in attending.
Isle of Islay
