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Isle of Islay
The Isle of Islay promises an amazing experience with its birdlife, seafood, peaty whiskies and dramatic coastal seascapes. A stunning island on the "whisky coast" of west Scotland, Islay is probably best known for its distinctive peaty drams. Home to ten working distilleries, Islay has the process down to a fine art. Sláinte!
Great things to do on Islay
Whether you’re exploring the island’s famous distilleries or wandering its scenic beaches, there’s plenty to see and do on Islay.
Beautiful walks to try on Islay
Find out everything you need to know about walking on Islay.
Explore one of Islay's stunning beaches
Islay is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in Scotland. Embrace the fresh air and enjoy stunning views along the way.
Have an adventure with guided outdoor activities on Islay
Book guided outdoor activities on Islay and get stuck into island life.
Three Distilleries Pathway
Cover 3 distilleries in 3 miles on the beautiful Isle of Islay - and maybe a wee dram or two along the way.
Islay nature and wildlife
Islay is packed full of wild scenery, flora and fauna throughout the year. Keep your eyes peeled while you're out and about and you might be in luck!
Scottish Island Adventures podcast - Islay and Jura
Get trip inspiration on Islay and Jura from host Coinneach MacLeod and special guest John Carmichael.
Top days out ideas
You're never short of things to do on the Isle of Islay. See iconic landmarks, book a whisky distillery tour or embrace the island's rich textiles history.
Islay distillery tours
With ten working distilleries, Islay is definitely the place to sample a dram.
Islay Woollen Mill
Wrap up warm with some Islay Woollen Mill fashion accessories. They have even featured in big blockbuster films including Braveheart and Rob Roy.
Ardnahoe Distillery
Get a behind-the-scenes look into the whisky making process and say hello to Islay's newest member of the whisky distillery family.
American Monument
This monument pays tribute to hundreds of American servicemen and offers stunning views over the North Channel, the sea between Ireland and Islay.
Driving tours
Hit the road and explore Islay until your heart's content by hiring your own car.
Carraig Fhada Lighthouse
This iconic lighthouse stands out from the rest and is the only square-shaped lighthouse in Scotland.
Inspiring routes, trails and itineraries
Islay is a wonderful place to explore, on foot, by bike or on a guided tour.
Lagavulin Distillery, Islay
Follow a route
Check out some tours and trails on the island, from sampling the exquisite whisky and finding out more about distilleries to exploring the open sea.
See what's on in Islay
Ardnahoe Distillery
Events
Discover more about the festivals and events taking place on Islay, including family-friendly fun and whisky festivals.
Map of Islay
Explore Isle of Islay
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How to travel to and around Islay
Getting to
Ferry
You can catch the ferry daily from Kennacraig and once a week from Oban.
Flying
Take the flight of a lifetime, with Loganair operating flights from Edinburgh and Glasgow and Hebridean Air Services running flights from Colonsay and Oban.
Getting around
Bus and coach
There are regular buses on the island to transport you around.
Ferry
Islay is also the main gateway to Jura where you can enjoy even more whisky! The ferry crossing only takes 5 minutes and runs regularly throughout the day.
Ardbeg House, a luxury whisky-themed hotel in the Isle of Islay.
© Ardbeg House
Places to stay on Islay
From charming hotels to glamping pods, Islay has a great selection of accommodation options to choose from.
Glenegedale House, Isle of Islay
Places to eat on Islay
With the sea on its doorstep and island bursting with life, there's plenty of fresh food and drink to try in addition to their famous whiskies!
The Singing Sands on Islay
Find information on accessible trips
Whether you're a wheelchair user or looking for a holiday suitable for all the family. Islay's accommodation and attractions have the right amenities in place to help you have a fantastic trip away.
Explore nearby
Looking for more island adventures to tick off your bucket list? Scotland is home to a whole host of exciting destinations from Jura and Mull to the Isle of Bute.
Isle of Jura
Follow in the footsteps of George Orwell and find whisky, magnificent mountains and splendid tranquillity on this island off Scotland's west coast.
Isle of Mull
This large Inner Hebridean island is full of many incredible possibilities, whether you are going for a day trip or staying a fortnight.
Isle of Bute
Bute is perhaps the most accessible of Argyll’s islands. With its balmy climate, it's been a popular holiday spot for well over a century.
Other things you might like
The Scottish Highlands
Isle of Skye
Oban
Scottish islands & island hopping
Airports & flights in Scotland
Getting around Scotland by ferry
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