Eat Islay
A taste of Islay's best secrets!
It may surprise you to learn that Islay is rich in fresh local produce.
Islay beef, lamb, pork and venison are always in demand nationwide in view of its undisputed quality.
The shell fish and sea food caught locally is one of Scotland's best kept secrets. Ironically most of Islay's catch is exported to Spain.
You will see the fishing boats on Loch Indaal from the Smithy.
Local Produce
Islay House Community Garden
The walled garden was originally the kitchen garden which supplied fruit and vegetables for Islay House. The present owner of Islay House decided to lease the garden to the Islay community in 2005.
Dedicated efforts of the Bridgend Community Centre Committee, along with many volunteers, has brought the garden back to life, including many original features like the old well. You will enjoy a stroll round the terraces which are full of flowers, birds and butterflies. Seasonal produce is grown and can be bought from the shop located on the south side of the garden.
There is a wide range of seasonal fruit, vegetables and herbs available as well as many varieties of potatoes. You can even pick your own fresh salad vegetables.
McFarlane Family Butchers, Bowmore
Jean's Fresh Fish Van - scallops, crab and lobster.
Islay Oysters, Loch Gruinart
If you want to eat Islay meat, ask to see the mark when you buy meat at a farm, at a butcher, at a restaurant or at a retailer.
Catch it yourself
Take a rod and line to any of the beaches and catch your own supper.
Enjoy a barbeque of your catch back at the Smithy in the purpose built barbeque are and patio.
Contact numbers of the local produce mentioned can be found in the new 2009 issue of the Phoney Book, Islay and Jura's telephone directory. A copy of this can be found at the Smithy.
The Gearach at Bruichladdich - Holiday cottage - Self Catering Accommodation
Luxury self catering accommodation on the Isle of Islay, come and stay to enjoy Hebridean island wildlife, birds and malt whisky plus much more
Mark Piper
Gearach Forest Lodge
Port Charlotte
Isle of Islay
Scotland
PA48 7UB
Tel: +44 (0) 1496 850120
Mobile: 07786 906472
enquiries@thegearach.co.uk