Get active
On Islay
Fat biking along the shore, wild swimming in the Atlantic, hiking across the island. Golden eagle watching from the highest peak, sea kayaking with seals and wildlife boat tours from nearby Port Ellen. Active is a state of mind on Islay.
Top wild swimming spots
On Islay
Long sandy beaches, sheltered bays and 130 miles of Atlantic coastline are ready for adventure.
Walks
Nearby and further afield
RSPB reserves, distillery pathways and dramatic coastal routes guided by sea stacks and waterfalls, in our top walking routes on Islay.
Fat biking
On the beach
Explore the seven-mile long Laggan Bay on the hotel's doorstep with our adult and children's fat bikes. Coming soon...
Art at The Machrie
Leading Scottish and contemporary art
The eclectic Machrie art collection – personally curated by the hotel’s founder, Sue Nye – is teeming with unexpected treasures.
Golf
Championships links course
Ranked 75th in the world in Golf World's Top 100 with a Wee course for beginners and social golf activities.
Stargazing
Aurora borealis
Vividly bright stars blanket the northern Scottish sky, where the naked eye is all you’ll need to inspire awe. The greens of the aurora borealis are often sighted on Islay.
Islay e-wheels
Electric and pedal bikes
Explore the island by road or footpath, book with Islay e-wheels to get your bike dropped off to the hotel.
Wildlife
Sea, land and sky
Bird watching, geese chough, golden eagles, stags, dolphins seals. Islay is full of rewards.
Whisky tours
Ten distilleries
Explore the distilleries of Islay each with their own unique character and charm.
Islay Sea Adventures
Discover Islay's stunning wildlife with daily boat tours from Port Ellen Marina. Whether you prefer a gentle cruise, a fishing trip, or a thrilling RIB adventure, we have the perfect experience for you.
Sea kayaking
Explore the inlets, coastlines and lochs by sea kayak
Historic sites
And places of interest
Islay has a rich heritage reaching back 12,000 years. Whether you're a history buff, or intrigued by the past, there's much to explore during your stay at the Machrie Hotel.
Fly Fish Islay
Experience world-class fly fishing on the Isle of Islay with Fly Fishing Islay, based in Bowmore. Enjoy this beautiful scenery, expert guidance, and abundant wild brown trout in the islands pristine lochs and rivers.