Lismore

Ask an Islander

Hazel from Lismore Luminations tells us why her home island of Lismore is so special.

“One of my favourite things to do is explore the island by bike. For visitors Isle of Lismore Bike Hire is a great option if you fancy a two-wheeled adventure. A must-see on your cycle is the Lismore Gaelic Heritage Centre, a focus on Gaelic culture and Island history. And after a lot of cycling why not treat yourself with a visit to Isle of Lismore Cafe – you’ve never seen slices of cake so big! They do great daily specials too; my favourite is freshly caught langoustines.”

“For those wishing to explore the island at a more leisurely pace Explore Lismore offer bespoke guided Landrover tours to take you off the beaten track.”

“Lismore is magnificent all year round, but summer is really exceptional. The arrival of the swallows and lambs gambolling on the hills fills the island with a sense of fun and adventure. As the seas warm, there is nothing better than diving into the crystal clear waters. Lismore or Lios Mòr means “great garden” and as you travel the island discovering its rich tapestry of flora and fauna you can see why – rare flowers and butterflies are in abundance.”

The Isle of Lismore is also brimming with some very talented and enterprising folk, as Hazel explains. “The gift shop is packed with local arts and crafts and the ideal stop to pick up some souvenirs. They stock Lismore Luminations candles, soaps and diffusers, there are amazing Mogwaii Design textiles by local artist Sarah Campbell, artisan soap and body care products by Shepherds Cottage Soaps and Luxuries and Slàinte Sauces luxury cocktail-inspired sauces to dip and drizzle.”

Hazel also shared a top island tip with us. “As you travel along the single track roads”, she says, “keep an eye out for honesty boxes on the road. There’s The Dutch Bakery on Lismore with fresh homemade cakes in the telephone box, fresh class-A oysters straight from the sea courtesy of The Oyster Croft, fresh veg and eggs, and even candles. There is also a well-stocked shop and post office Lismore Stores or head to The Sailean Project – Lismore Grass-Fed Beef and Lamb for some wonderful local produce.”

“If you’re looking for something unusual to do on the island, there’s seaweed foraging courses, and textile and music courses too, as well as other events throughout the year.”

“Two real highlights on the Lismore calendar are the Agricultural Show and the Sports and Raft race. They’re fantastic community events which everyone can enjoy.”

Gaelic / Gàidhlig

The Gaelic name for Lismore is Lios Mòr.

The Gàidhlig for ‘music’ is ceòl.

Getting Here

CalMac operates several sailings to Lismore from Oban throughout the day.

Argyll and Bute Council operates regular sailings from Port Appin on the mainland to Lismore throughout the day.