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Walks close to Persabus

There are so many wonderful places to walk on Islay and all come with the spectacular scenery that this island has to offer. Here we have collated some walks that are well worth a meander. Expect to see the Islay wildlife, coastline, woodland and much more. And what’s more, is a lot of great walking is accessible directly from the farm if you are staying with us. So read on and find out more to see what takes your fancy. And remember to pack those walking boots! Your walking adventure starts here.

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Walk up to the Trig Point on the farm

The trig point on Persabus is at the top of Cnoc Abhail. It is well worth the climb, but do check if the cows are on the hill as it might not be suitable to take dogs. The steep climb takes about half an hour. From the top, at the trig point, you can see all the way across the farmland and beyond out towards the coastline of the Rhinns of Islay. Ahead are the Paps of Jura and on clear days, the mountains on Mull reveal themselves out across the sea in the distance. You can watch the ferry, fishing boats and yachts sailing up the Sound of Islay. There is a fantastic bird’s eye view of Persabus farm and steadings. This is the 360 panorama of course. Do remember to turn your head, or for the wildly enthusiastic a pirouette on top of the trig point is always an option.

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Lilly Loch and Loch Ballygrant

Walks from the farmhouse and cottages at Persabus.

Staying on the farm allows you easy access to beautiful woodland and lochs. Follow tracks down through the woods to the shore.

Follow the single track road from the farm down towards the main road. Cross the main road to the lifeboat houses. To the left of the houses is a track which follows the main road heading for Port Askaig. Stay on this track, it will lead you to the gate, opposite Caol ila road end. Go through the gate and follow the track to the right. Walk down to Lilly Loch where you will see beautiful lillies in flower in late June and early July. At Lily Loch you can take a right and follow the track all the way to Ballygrant, just head right along the single track road at the end of the woods and right again and you will come to the main road. A track follows this main road and takes you eventually back to the lifeboat houses opposite Persabus road end.

You can also take a left at Lily Loch, follow the track up a slight hill and then take the first left. This track will eventually lead you through woodland to a small pebble bay on the Sound of Islay, or on your way along the track look out for a track to your left up the hillside. You will come to slate bench. Here there are panoramic views of the Sound of Islay. Sit back and watch the ferry sail down the Sound of Islay.

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Walks at Bunnahabhain

If you drive along the single track road towards Bunnahabhain Distillery, just before the final bend down to the distillery you will see a track on your left. Park on the grass here. You can follow the track, crossing at the bridge, all the way through the forest to Balulive Farm, and walk on along the road to Finlaggan.

Alternatively at the gate follow the track just past the old stone sheep fank. Turn right and go through the deer gate. Follow the track over the bridge and enjoy a hike out along this spectacular coastline. Watch seals, oystercatchers, eagles and deer in this stunning wilderness. For a long hike, take a few hours and follow the track leading to Rhuvaal lighthouse on Islay’s north coast. Read our blog post on this hike

Share in our Experiences of Local Walks

If you would like a taste of our experiences on local walks we have some blogs written about walks around Ardnave Point Treks over the headland at Bunnahabhain to the discover fabulous beaches on the north coast. A climb up Sgarbh Breac and fabulous hikes along the north east coast. Enjoy exploring Saligo on the northwest coast, or head for a short gentle walk along the farm track but do remember there are cows on the farm and we would never recommend walking a dog through cows, even on a lead. For a gentler walk you might head over to Bridgend woods. Enjoy discovering the fantastic tracks and trails, along the River Sorn, to the Islay Woollen Mill, Diall Farm, and Claggan.

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Bridgend Woods

Enjoy a walk through the beautiful woods at Bridgend along the River Sorn. Parking is available on the car park just opposite the gate to the woods at Bridgend. There are lots of lovely paths to explore taking you to the Woollen Mill and beyond, or along the Strath.

Islay Natural History Trust nature walks

During the summer months enjoy guided walks in a group setting.

Guided Jura

Enjoy guided walks on the Isle of Jura tailored to your experience with a local guide.

More walking routes and guides…

Fo more walking routes and guides around the islands do visit Walk Highlands Islay walks

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Accommodation

Explore our delightful Islay accommodation where we have a fabulous choice of country accommodation on this beautiful island.

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Things to Do

There is so much to see and do on the beautiful island of Islay and we have a section to help you decide what to do when you visit here.

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Testimonials

Just come back from a wonderful long weekend on Islay (our first visit) and so pleased we chose to stay at Persabus in the B&B suite. Rosemary and Donald are lovely owners and were extremely helpful with suggestions on places to eat which was particularly helpful with us staying off season! Location perfect for walking to Ardnahoe and Bunnahabhain distilleries. Absolutely delicious bacon (and tattie scone!) rolls and coffee every morning. Very comfy bed. I can’t fault it. Will be our base for inevitable future visits. Thank you so much.