Around Islay…

Islay is the southernmost of the Inner Hebrides islands, off the west coast of Scotland. Along with the neighbouring island of Jura, it’s known for its whisky. Numerous distilleries produce the island’s characteristically peaty single malts. In the northeast, 2 islands on Loch Finlaggan are dotted with the remains of an ancient settlement, including a prehistoric fort and medieval tombstones.

Getting Around Islay

Islay is known as the Queen of the Hebrides, with a terrain that is rugged but perhaps a bit flatter than other islands, making it ideal for walking as well as cycling.

It has always been well known by birdwatchers, as it is the wintering ground for a large population of geese as well as being a regular breeding ground for rare Corncrakes and Chough, but is increasingly becoming popular for walking holidays.

For walkers, Islay has some excellent scenery on offer, with great expanses of beaches like Machir Bay or Loch Gruinart, and many smaller coves around the Rhinns, On the southwest of Islay is the Oa Peninsula, which has coastal cliffs as well as a rugged interior. you will find woodlands around Bridgend and Ballygrant, many small whitewashed hamlets and villages, like Port Charlotte and Port Ellen, and everywhere you go will have superb sea views.

For a selection of over 15 walks on Islay, take a look at the Islay Info website.

Activities

From walking and cycling to boat trips and golf, Islay has something for everyone. For a more relaxing holiday, Islay is steeped in history to explore within our museums and historic sites around the Island, we have wealth of wildlife, bird watching and fishing.

Outdoor Activities - Cycling

Cycling

Cycling around Islay has never been easier with Islay E-Wheels – Premium Bicycle hire delivered straight to your door!
Islay E- Wheels offers premium electric and non-electric bikes for hire. Choose between their easy entry step-through or Hybrid-style bikes. Step through electric bikes allow people to feel more confident while slipping off the saddle when coming to rest. This way the rider can plant both feet firmly on the ground! All of their e-bikes feature state-of-the-art Bosch technology, cycling is a fun and easy way to explore beautiful Islay. The perfect way to visit Islay’s world-famous Distilleries. Book now via their website >

Distilleries

Whisky has been made on Islay for centuries, and with 8 Distilleries on the Island, there is plenty to sample! They all offer tours and have visitor centres and cafes/shops so they are well worth a visit. You can book guided tours or a taxi and let someone else do the driving and enjoy the full whisky experience.

Festivals

Islay hosts several Festivals throughout the year. As well as the Islay Whisky Festival in May/June, there are music festivals, historic & sporting events to entertain all ages and tastes.