Loch Gruinart RSPB Reserve

Situated in one of the most beautiful parts of Islay, the RSPB Loch Gruinart Nature Reserve is a fantastic place to see wildlife all year round. In autumn, thousands of white-fronted and barnacle geese arrive from Greenland. When they leave in spring, wading birds take centre-stage, with the courtship displays of snipe, lapwings, redshanks and curlews. Watch it all take place from the viewing centre and hides, or follow one of the trails. During the summer months there are guided walks, when you can listen out for the corncrakes in the evening, or search out treecreepers, willow warblers, roe deer, speckled wood butterflies, hen harriers, golden eagles, red deer and marsh fritillary butterflies. The reserve is open at all times. The visitor centre is open daily from 10 am to 5 pm.