Port Askaig is one of the two main ferry ports on Islay – the other being Port Ellen. Having sailed up the sound between Islay and Jura, visitors are treated to a wonderful view of the coastline as the ferry makes its way into port.
Port Askaig itself lies at the foot of a dramatic hillside – with a steep climb out of the port – not for the feint-hearted if you’re arriving on two wheels! Port Askaig is also where you catch the ferry from or to Jura and with an RNLI station, a hotel and bar, a shop and a small fleet of fishing boats it can be a bustling wee port at times with plenty going on.
It’s worth lingering a little while, enjoying a drink outside the hotel and watching this bustle going on, before heading off on your journey, or ensuring you arrive for your ferry in plenty of time to explore a little before you head off to your next destination.
It’s also a stunning area for walking, with magnificent views across the sound to Jura – with its iconic paps dominating the skyline.
This walk (which can be enjoyed in small sections or as a circular walk) would take 1/5 to 2 hours to complete and includes the lily loch – particularly spectacular in June, when the lilies are in bloom on the water.
The walk (below) is taken from a book of Islay Walks available at bookshops, Post Offices and and shops around the island.
Ballygrant – Port Askaig
A lovely woodland walk on well surfaced paths. Time your walk to return by bus from Port Askaig, or return across more open ground via the Keills – Ballygrant footpath. Please remember to keep your dog under control at all times. During the nesting season (April 15 to July 31) you are asked to keep your dog on the track, ideally on a lead. Park in the car park opposite Ballygrant Hall (follow the sign to Mulindry from Ballygrant to find it.) Please do not usethe gateways or verges along this single track road as this can difficulties for vehibles. Walk on tot he fork in the road; take the private road to Lossit Farm and enter the woods by the first gate on the left. Follow this main track all the way to the Lily Loch, detouring if you wish to visit Loch Cadhan or the heather-clad boathouse at Loch Allan.
At the Lily Loch, follow the signed footpath to the left. Leave the woods by the wooden gate, making sure it is closed behind you. This stretch of path leads back to the main road, close to Caol Ila road end. From here, continue along the main road to Port Askaig or join the Keills-Ballygrant footpath for your return journey.
