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The Isle of Islay is Scotland’s Queen of the Hebrides. Located on the southernmost island of the Inner Hebrides, Islay (pronounced Eye-la) is best known for its whisky distilleries, so best discovered by tour or with a designated driver. However, there are more things to do on Islay than sample Scotland’s water of life.
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Things to Do in Islay
Islay Whisky Tour
I’m not lying when I say that Islay is the island of Whisky.
There are at least eleven whisky distilleries on Islay which cover the whole map, excluding the northwest corner.
The fertile island surrounded by pure water makes for an ideal space for making one of Scotland’s biggest exports.
One of the popular distilleries on the island is the multi-award-winning Ardbeg Distillery which has been making liquid sunshine for over 200 years.
The views are worth a visit, even if you are not having a dram.
Laphroaig Distillery Tour
‘The beautiful hollow by the broad bay’ Laphroaig, is located at the south of the island and has been distilling since 1815.
Today visitors can take an extensive guided distillery tour of the premises with quite a few samples thrown in along the way.
Islay Woollen Mill
Islay Woollen Mill is a family-run business that was first established in 1883.
Visitors can tour the mill which includes two restored Dobcross looms dating from the 1920s.
The owner has fitted Hollywood movies such as Braveheart and Rob Roy.
Islay Beaches – Machir Bay
Crystal blue waters, fine white sand – no, I’m not talking about the Maldives!
Welcome to Machir Bay also known as Kilchoman Beach or Machrie Beach.
Islay has a handful of beaches worth your time if the weather is right.
Museum of Islay
This former church is now home to the Museum of Islay which holds over 1600 artefacts from stones to photographs.
It first opened in 1977 and documents life from the past 12,000 years.
Islay Travel Tips
Getting Around Islay
Although approximately 300 inhabitants live on Islay, it is quite difficult to get around without a tour of a car.
Most visitors arrive by car and ferry or collect a hire car after touching down flight.
How to Get to Islay
Islay can be reached by car and ferry, bus tour, or plane!
A public bus travels between Glasgow and Kennacraig Ferry Terminal where you can sail to Port Ellen or Port Askaig on Islay.
Islay pronunciation
How do you pronounce Islay?
A common question asked by tourists.
Eye-la is the correct answer.
Other Things to Note
Like most of the west coast of Scotland, Islay’s beauty is no shade for the masses of midges that invade.
Come prepared with your Avon so Soft US / UK to repel the wee “beasties”.
Fèis Ìle – The Islay Festival takes place in May, so expect the island to be very busy with whisky fans.
