17. Currie Sands

It’s my last day on Islay and I have reaffirmed by decision to build a walking project around Scottish beaches a hundred times over. It’s now definitely a thing, but still my ambitions are measured, with a target of 50-100 beaches.

The plan today is to visit the beaches along the Atlantic west coast of the island, starting at the bottom of the Rhinns of Islay peninsula and working my way up the single track road to the far north. It’s overcast but little chance of rain. My first stop is lovely Currie Sands. I park in the small port village of Portnahaven and walk the mile or so to this quaint sandy beach, framed at each end by high rocky slopes which provide an inviting descent onto the sand. I pass through a signed gate and climb gingerly down to the beach. The sound of the water breaking across the tiny bay on this quiet Monday morning is so peaceful. It’s a wonderful spot.