The Fine Distilleries of Port Ellen

The village of Port Ellen is made up of a few stone structures, but
mostly consists of wooden homes and cottages. East of Port Ellen lies
the
reason that this small village is amongst the popular destinations in
Scotland, the distilleries. Even though Ardbeg Distillery has come into
use
again, the remnants of the old Lagavulin and Laphroaig Distilleries
stand
silently in memory of an industry that gave the Islay worth and
importance
during their existence.

The Port Ellen Distillery was established Alexander Mackay in the
year
1825. John Ramsay bought the distillery in 1836 and by 1920 the
distillery
had once again changed owners, to the Distillers Company Limited. The
distillery produced the Port Ellen Single Malt, an Islay Scotch
Whiskey. By
1987, the distillery closed down and now only supplies malting. The
Port
Ellen Single Malt is steadily becoming a collectible whiskey, due to
the
mothballing of the distillery.

The War Memorial that was erected in memory of those who lost their
lives
in the Port Ellen Marina and both world wars is a noteworthy site to
visit.
In nearby Bowmore, visitors can enjoy the swimming facilities, with
tennis
courts being available in Port Ellen. Divers often refer to Port Ellen
as a
significant diving destination in Scotland, due to the abundance of
shipwrecks that came to rest just off the coast of the Isle of Islay
and
golfers can relax on the greens in Machrie. The ruins of the Dunyvaig
Castle
are still visible and are located near Lagavulin Bay. It once was the
residence of the MacDonald Lords of the Isles, but was a castle that
was
besieged many times before its destruction in 1677, by the Campbell
Lairds
of Islay.

Port Ellen is a beautiful village with much to see and many
attractions.
The historical sights and breathtaking landscapes and views, makes Port
Ellen a worthy and spectacular Scottish destination.

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