A ROAD TRIP ABOUT FRIENDSHIP, PHOTOGRAPHY AND WHISKY.
We are Bernard and Edouard, two friends with a shared love for adventure, photography and Islay’s whisky. We decided to embark on an epic road trip from Brussels to Islay, a remote island in Scotland famed for its distinctive single malts. 9 distilleries producing
mostly peated malts. The journey was planned, as Islay is to be earned. Ferries are to be booked way ahead as it is the only way to reach the island. We begin our journey with a scenic drive through Belgium and the Netherlands to Rotterdam. From there, we boarded
a ferry to Hull, brimming with anticipation for the adventures that lay ahead.
Once in Hull, we navigated the picturesque landscapes of Northern England and Scotland, passing through verdant hills and tranquil lochs. A stop for a night in Edinburgh of course !
Our final leg included a second ferry from Kennacraig to Port Ellen on Islay, where the air carried the scent of the sea and a promise of remarkable experiences. From the moment we set foot on the Queen of Hebrides : no more planning, no more agenda the only appointment was for the distillery tour.
Upon arrival, we were greeted by the wild beauty of Islay. The island's rugged coastlines, windswept beaches, and rolling hills created a breathtaking backdrop for our stay. We checked into our Storm Pods, a unique glamping accommodation in Lagavulin Bay that offered a blend of simplicity and comfort. From our terrace deck, just a few meters from the sea, we could hear the waves crashing and see the expansive horizon, creating a serene atmosphere that was perfect for unwinding after a day of exploration. As the sun was setting, a charcoal grilled piece of Angus beef - of course ! - bought at the local butchery was the perfect dinner on our deck facing the sea. Edouard played some guitar in the calm of the late evening.
One of the highlights of our trip was an exclusive tour of the renowned Lagavulin distillery. We were taken behind the scenes, learning about the intricate processes involved in creating the iconic Islay whisky. We sampled several rare single malts, each sip revealing complex smoky flavours and aromas that told the story of the island's rich whisky heritage. This intimate experience deepened their appreciation for the craftsmanship and passion that goes into each bottle. The final step was a mind-blowing experience ! We were invited to fill our very own whisky bottle straight from the cask with a 9 years old whisky not to be found anywhere and absolutely impossible to buy from any shop ! They said : exclusive ! It really was.
The island itself was a haven of natural splendour. A sanctuary for wildlife, and we spotted seals basking on the shores and eagles soaring overhead, deers, pheasants, hares. The isolation and raw beauty of Islay made us feel like we were on the edge of the world, far from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. The silence was loud and peaceful, protective.
We spent our days exploring Islay's untamed wilderness, from its peat bogs to its cliff-top paths. We visited ancient ruins, encountered diverse wildlife, and marvelled at the unspoiled beauty that surrounded us. We had a lunch stop on the terrace of the Hotel Port Charlotte with a stunning sea view and the nearby lighthouse. Some fresh Islay scallops on the menu !
As we sat, for our last evening on the island, on the deck of our Storm Pod, with the sea stretching out before them and the sky painted with the hues of sunset, we reflected on our journey. It was a trip filled with discovery, camaraderie, laughs, silences and unforgettable experiences, a testament to the enduring allure of the open road and the timeless charm of Islay. The kindness of the island's inhabitants will also have been an important and real part of the trip, they are often curious to know you, always ready for a bit of conversation, often tinged with good old rough Scottish humour.
It was already time to go back home after those magnificent five days.
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