Islay and Jura

Stepping off the boat onto Islay, distinctive distilleries set the scene with their poetic names emblazoned in huge block capitals. You are now in whisky country! Before long you’ll be sipping smoky drams straight from the cask on a rousing Scottish distillery tour. Between tours you’ll find unique walking and cycling opportunities, and staggering coastal beauty. A short ferry journey away, Jura’s wild landscapes are home to vast herds of deer and few people. It was here, finding peace and solitude, that George Orwell finished his masterpiece, 1984.  

I shall sail across the sound, 
I shall sail across the ferry, 
To my native isle I'm bound, 
braving wind and wave and skerry

Traditional verse, on the crossing from Islay to Jura

Known as the ‘Queen of the Hebrides’, Islay is home to 10 working distilleries, including household names that echo well beyond its rugged shores. Jura is perfect for wilderness walks, with epic wild landscapes stretching out ahead of you.  

Outdoor adventures on Islay and Jura

Adventure along windswept coastlines and climb dramatic peaks to take in the views across the islands. Feel the sand between your toes on pristine beaches, keeping an eye out for seals bopping up and down in the waves or birds of prey circling above. Rent a bike or take your own to speed through island landscapes, try your hand at fishing or tee off on a golf course with unforgettable views at The Machrie, Islay's championship golf links.

Things to do on Islay and Jura 

A whisky lover's paradise

Follow Scotland's most famous whisky trail and explore the distilleries that have made Islay a global icon for whisky lovers with ten iconic distilleries on the island - Ardbeg, Ardnahoe, Bowmore, Bruichladdich, Bunnahabhain, Caol Ila, Kilchoman, Lagavulin, Laphroig and Port Ellen. Plan your island trip for the early summer months of May and June when you can take part in Fèis Ìle, Islay's annual whisky festival that brings together the community and the golden drams of whisky that are such a huge part of the island's culture.

A whisky tour of Islay: the complete guide  

Uncover island history, heritage and culture

Step back in time and really get a feel for the rich history of the islands, from late Neolithic and Bronze Age sites to ancient Celt tribes and Norse Viking raids. See the sunlight bathe standing stones in a warm glow, marvel at the symbols carved onto the Kildalton Cross or visit the Museum of Islay Life at Port Charlotte to immerse yourself in the community and culture of Islay and Jura. 

History of the Islands - Explore Islay & Jura