Isle of Barra has whisky galore

The beautiful isle of Barra in the Outer Hebrides is hosting its first ever Whisky Galore Festival from 18 – 20 September, 2009.

Celebrating 60 years since the release of the historic Ealing Comedy Whisky Galore, which was filmed on the island, the festival offers residents and visitors the chance to reflect on the years of cinematic fame and the island’s unique culture.

The festival, which will be launched in Kisimul Castle based on a rocky outcrop in Castlebay, will include: special screenings of the original film which featured many local characters; a tournament on the UK’s most westerly golf course; an island whisky hunt; re-enactments; an exhibition and seminar; and, of course, whisky tastings. Supported by Homecoming Scotland, the event will reinforce the local pride surrounding featuring in this best-loved film.

Based on a true story, the original book of the film was written by Compton Mackenzie and centres on the locals who salvage thousands of bottles of whisky from a shipwreck and their antics in keeping their illicit haul hidden from the Excise Men. The festival will feature tours of the film locations as well as a visit to the graveside of Compton Mackenzie himself.

Barra is the only island in the world where scheduled flights land on the beach. With only just over 1,000 residents, it is a world apart and is a wonderful destination for a holiday or weekend away from it all. The island hosts an annual traditional music festival, plus its half marathon known as the ‘Barrathon’ and has many historic and ancient sites of interest.

For more information, visit whiskygalorefestival.com.