Isle of Islay

Scotland > West of Scotland > Argyll > Isle of Islay

Islay is the most southerly of the Inner Hebrides, lying to the west of the Mull of Kintyre with Jura beyond to the north east. Islay is the most southerly of the Hebrides.

The island is about 25 miles from north to south and 20 miles across at the widest point. It is a favourite holiday island for birdwatchers, naturalists, photographers and artists. It is an island of contrasts - rolling farmland rising to moorland criss-crossed by flowing burns with rocky coastlines giving way to open sweeps of beach. The island has been inhabited since Neolithic times and there are lots of sites of interest.

The famous "Lords of The Isles'" were based here after the end of Norse rule of the area. They were rulers of this almost independent princedom of the MacDonalds from the 13th century.

The Isle is almost halved in two by Lochindaal and Loch Gruineart. With green farmlands to the west and the long strand of the Machair of Laggan Bay stretches to the south. The moors stretch from Oa to the isolated east coast.

Islay is beautiful at any time of the year because of its seascapes and hills but never moreso than in late May and June when the rhododendrons, azaleas and lilies are out – especially around Bridgend!

There is a daily air service. The island is rightly famous for its malt whisky, well loved world wide for its peaty style and complex nose.