Port Charlotte has a well-stocked Village Shop and Post Office, which sells a wide range of goods. You can also rent DVDs there and a recent addition is a free ATM cash machine (the nearest bank is in Bowmore, approximately 12 miles away). There is also a petrol pump.
For more extensive shopping, a trip to the Mini-Market at Bruichladdich is recommended or you can visit the Spar Shop at Bridgend (the coffee served at the Bruichladdich Mini-Market is worth trying too). Bowmore, the main town on Islay, has a wide range of shops including a Co-op Supermarket.
There are four places for dining within Port Charlotte:
The museum has a large collection of information and exhibits in relation to all aspects of the island's history. Assistance is provided for those who which to trace family history.
The Wildlife Centre provides information about Islay's natural heritage. There are several displays and 'hands on' activities for all ages. In summer, there are short expeditions for young explorers close to the village. Tickets are valid for a whole week.
More detailed information about the following historical locations can be obtained from the Museum of Islay Life:
You can hire bicycles in Port Charlotte and this is one of the best ways to explore the island. There are very few steep hills so cycling on Islay is not too difficult. To hire a bike or for more information please telephone Port Charlotte Bike Hire on +44 (0) 1496 850488.
A purpose-built community centre for the village of Port Charlotte, often the venue for popular ceilidh dancing and Visitors Welcome Evenings. The centre has a cafe/restaurant, function rooms and is next door to the play park and playing fields overlooking Loch Indaal.
Islay has some of the finest unspoiled beaches in the UK and most are reasonably accessible. Be sure to visit Ardnave, Saligo or Machir Bay at Kilchoman. There is a fine coffee shop and visitor centre at Kilchoman Distillery close to Machir Bay. On the other side of the island is Big Strand - a sandy beach approximately 7 miles long. Rockside Farm arranges horse-riding for all levels of ability, these rides include a beach trek which is highly recommended.
Islay is perhaps best known for internationally for its fine Malt Whiskies. There are eight distilleries on Islay, all of which have visitor centres well worth visiting. Ardberg Distillery has the reputation of providing good food. Below are details of the distilleries and their websites:
Islay's unique natural heritage is all around, but visits to the RSPB centre at Gruinart are recommended.
The village of Port Charlotte is the base of - Islay Birding - awarded and recognised as 'a 5 star experience' by Visit Scotland. Some of the previous guests of Port Charlotte Holidays have recommended the trips that are organised by Islay Birding - limited to up to six people, a unique way to explore the island.
The MacTaggart Leisure Centre offers a swimming pool, gym and associated activities for all ages. There are a number of places that offer pony trekking. Fishing and Shooting can be easily arranged during your visit. Islay Golf Club is situated at Machrie.
Islay has a wide variety of events at any time of the year. A diary of events is to be found at the Ileach (local community newspaper) website:
Ileach Newspaper
The main events on the Isle of Islay include:
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