9. Ardtalla Beach

A short walk from the north end of Claggain Bay is beautiful Ardtalla Beach. I doubt you would just stumble across this beach, and it’s not listed on many Islay tourist websites, but it’s a real hidden gem. From Claggain Bay, I follow a farm track, through a gate and alongside a wall before turning right across a field and onto the beach. It’s easier said than done. The said field contains 60-odd nervous cows, including mothers and calves. They don’t seem happy to see me and I’m convinced they’re about to make a move on me! I quicken the pace, keep my head down and reach the edge of the field, which drops onto the sand. The beach is well worth it. Crystal white sand, blue green water, majestic rock formations, hidden pools and backed by sheltered trees. It has it all. As I return along the shore, I spot one of the cows (one of the less aggressive ones) has joined me on the beach and is having a paddle. I skirt around Daisy, climb a small hill and am pleased to find a way to return to the road without having to run the bovine gauntlet. The walk back, past Claggain Bay to the car at Kidalton is lovely. A good start on Islay.