"The Old School", built over 100 years ago, survives in a splendid setting on Loch Leodamais and Kilnaughton Bay, overlooking the Mull of Oa, with Ireland and the Atlantic beyond.

The school has been considerably upgraded to include four self catering cottages, all fitted out to a high standard in both furnishings and decor. Each cottage is self contained, consisting of a kitchen, a bathroom, two bedrooms and a lounge/dining room with bed setee. All cottages are capable of sleeping four to six people, and pets are most welcome.

The Island of Islay offers the visitor an abundance of outdoor attractions, with many idyllic and interesting walks, pony trekking, cycling(cycle hire can be arranged), birdwatching(there is an RSPB reserve at Loch Gruinart) and a coastline with numerous beaches.

The island's lochs provide almost unequalled fishing, for most of which permits can be obtained, while the local bays at Port Ellen can support water sports such as canoeing, windsurfing and water skiing. Also well worth a visit is the Museum of Islay Life in Port Charlotte.

The village of Bowmore has its Main Street dominated by the Round Church, one of only two in Scotland and which welcomes visitors at any time. The village is also home to the Islay and Jura Swimming Pool, open from Tuesday to Sunday. Approximately four miles further north is Islay Woollen Mill, where the owner will be more than happy to show you the working looms and where products of the mill can be purchased in the adjacent shop.

Perhaps Islay's most distinguished attractions are the seven working distilleries, a number of which have visitor centres and/or guided tours and whisky tasting. Whether you indulge in the "Water of Life" or not , no visit to the island can be considered complete without a tour of at least one of the distilleries.

The Old School is situated in close proximity to the local shops and public transport to the rest of the island. The latter can be undertaken either by service bus or Post bus, both of which arrive and depart within a few hundred yards of the school. Ample car parking is available within the school grounds.

Islay is only 30 minutes flying time from Glasgow Airport with twice daily flights Monday to Friday and one flight at weekends. Access is also by road and ferry to Port Ellen or Port Askaig.

CHARGES: As from 10 Sept 2003

• From 150.00 to 300.00 per week depending on the season

All prices are weekly, and inclusive of bed linen and towels. Electricity is included.