Scotland: Ballamory

Ok so it is really Tobermory but it is where the children's TV program was filmed and is the reason many people visit- our interest was slightly more whisky based! The ferry runs from Oban to Craignure on the Isle of Mull and from there the local bus connects to the ferry to run you up to Tobermory. We caught the mid-morning ferry along with every tourist in west Scotland (or so it felt) but once onboard there was plenty of space. The trip over doesn't take that long and is very pretty, you get a lovely view of Oban, out past the old castle and then the lighthouse, although even in the sunshine it was fairly chilly in the wind.

Tobermory did not disappoint with the little harbor of brightly painted houses curving around the bay. We had booked a tour of the distillery for the afternoon, so meantime took a gentle stroll right around admiring the view and nosing in  the many little independent shops. The sea air had its usual effect so we stopped off for lunch at the cafe in the old church to share a prawn sandwhich and a lovely large slice of tiffin to help line our stomachs before the distillery tour.

Understandably we weren't allowed to take photos inside the distillery but the tour was excellent and very interesting. The video at the start was a little cheesy but didn't last long. We were then guided through the whole whisky making process from the drying of the barley through to the finished product. Our guide was very informative and entertaining and more than happy to answer questions. The tour finished up with a dram of their standard single malt, though for a small extra fee you could also taste the Ledaig (leycheck)- which of course we did! After all this tasting Mr Owl then convinced me we needed to buy a bottle to add to our existing whisky collection, and some whisky tablet, and a hat! Even if you aren't a whisky drinker, or even a drinker, then the tour is very interesting and gives an insight into one of Scotland's most famous industries. I certainly appreciate it even more (was this possible?) now I know more about the whole process.

Internally warmed we climbed back on to the bus to connect to the return ferry. All in a fantastic day out in a very picturesque setting!