Islay Travel Guide

Trek Zone

Island

Facts and practical information

Nestled on the west coast of Scotland, the picturesque island of Islay is a hidden gem waiting to be explored. Known for its stunning landscapes, rich history, and world-renowned whisky distilleries, Islay offers a unique and unforgettable experience for travelers seeking a taste of authentic Scottish culture.

With its rugged coastline and pristine beaches, Islay is a paradise for nature lovers. The island boasts a diverse range of habitats, from sandy dunes to dramatic cliffs, providing ample opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, birdwatching, and even surfing. The stunning Machir Bay, with its golden sands and crystal-clear waters, is a must-visit spot for beach enthusiasts.

For whisky aficionados, Islay is a dream destination. The island is home to eight distilleries, each with its own distinct character and flavors. Visitors can embark on whisky tours and tastings, where they can learn about the traditional distillation process and sample some of the finest single malts in the world. From the smoky and peaty flavors of Laphroaig to the smooth and fruity notes of Bowmore, Islay's whisky offerings are sure to delight even the most discerning palates.

Aside from its natural beauty and whisky heritage, Islay also boasts a rich history and vibrant culture. The island is dotted with ancient ruins, such as the iconic Dunyvaig Castle and the mysterious Kildalton Cross, which offer glimpses into Islay's fascinating past. Visitors can also explore the charming towns and villages, where they can discover traditional Scottish crafts, taste local delicacies, and immerse themselves in the warm and welcoming atmosphere of the island.

Alternative names: Area: 239.38 mi²Elevation: 190 ft a.s.l.Coordinates: 55°45'36"N, 6°10'52"W

Location

ScotlandUnited Kingdom

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Islay Top Attractions

Islay Attractions - What to See and Explore

Islay offers many attractions and places to visit. Here are the most important ones: Dunyvaig Castle, Ruvaal Lighthouse, Kilchoman, Beinn Bheigeir. Below you will find a complete list of places worth visiting.

Forts and castles
Dunyvaig Castle
Dunyvaig Castle, is located on the south side of Islay, in Argyll, Scotland, on the shore of Lagavulin Bay, 4 kilometres from Port Ellen. The castle was once a naval base of the Lord of the Isles, chiefs of Clan Donald. It was held by the chiefs of the Clan MacDonald of Dunnyveg.
Lighthouse • Vernacular architecture
Ruvaal Lighthouse
The Ruvaal, Rhuvaal, or Rubh'a' Mhàil Lighthouse is a listed 19th century lighthouse, located at the north-eastern end of the island of Islay, in the Inner Hebrides off the west coast of Scotland.
Church
Kilchoman
Kilchoman is a small settlement and large parish on the Scottish island of Islay, within the unitary council of Argyll and Bute.

Nature • Natural attraction • Mountain
Beinn Bheigeir
Beinn Bheigeir is a hill on the island of Islay in Scotland, UK. At 491 m, it is the highest of the seven 'Marilyn' hills on Islay, and the highest point on the island. It is in the south east of Islay in the Ardtalla Estate.
Forts and castles
Loch Gorm Castle
. Loch Gorm Castle is a ruined castle located on Eilean Mòr on Loch Gorm, Islay, Scotland. It was once a stronghold of Clan Macdonald. The castle was square, with a round bastion at each corner.
Forts and castles
Kildalton Castle
Kildalton Castle is a ruined Victorian country house near Port Ellen on the island of Islay in the Inner Hebrides, Argyll, Scotland. It was built in ashlar in 1870 to a rambling plan in the Scots baronial style.
Brewery • Distillery • Whiskey distillery
Kilchoman Distillery
The Kilchoman Distillery is a distillery that produces single malt Scotch whisky on Islay, an island of the Inner Hebrides. Kilchoman Distillery is in the northwest of the island, close to Machir Bay. Kilchoman was founded by Anthony Wills and remains an independent, family run distillery.
Distillery • Whiskey distillery
Bruichladdich Distillery
Bruichladdich Distillery is a distillery on the Rhinns of the isle of Islay in Scotland. The distillery produces mainly single malt Scotch whisky, but has also offered artisanal gin. It is owned by Rémy Cointreau and is one of nine working distilleries on the island.
Memorial
Dun Nosebridge
Dun Nosebridge is an Iron Age fort southeast of Bridgend, Islay, Scotland. The fort is located on the right bank of the River Laggan.
55°43'20"N • 6°15'20"W
Eilean na Muice Duibhe
Eilean na Muice Duibhe, also known as Duich Moss, is an area of low-level blanket mire on the island of Islay, off the west coast of Scotland.
Forts and castles
Dun Guaidhre
Dun Guaidhre, also known as Dùn Ghùaidhre, is an Iron Age fort southwest of Kilmeny, Islay, Scotland. It is protected as a scheduled monument. Local tradition associates the fort with Godred Crovan.
Forts and castles
Mulindry House
Mulindry House, also known as Caisteal Mhic Dhomhnuill or Mullintrae House, was a fortified house north of Mulindry Farm, Islay, Scotland.
Distillery • Whiskey distillery
Port Ellen distillery
The Port Ellen distillery is located in Port Ellen on the isle of Islay, Scotland. It initially operated between 1825 and 1983 when production shut down.
Distillery • Whiskey distillery
Port Charlotte distillery
Port Charlotte Distillery was a Scotch whisky distillery on the island of Islay, off the west coast of Scotland from 1829 to 1929. The distillery was based in the village of Port Charlotte 2 miles southwest from the Bruichladdich distillery.
55°37'0"N • 6°16'60"W
The Oa
The Oa is a rocky peninsula in the southwest of the island of Islay, in Argyll, Scotland. It is an RSPB nature reserve.
Nature • Natural attraction • Lake
Leorin Loch
Leorin Loch is of the impounding variety, located 2.5 kilometres north of Port Ellen, and is one of a group of three lochs supplying water to the island. The earthfill dam is 1.5 metres high.
55°47'40"N • 6°11'56"W
Dun Bhruichlinn
Dun Bhruichlinn is an Iron Age fort south of Esknish, Islay, Scotland. The fort, or dun is circular with an internal diameter of 16 metres and the walls stand to a maximum height of 0.5 metres. It stands among trees on a low ridge.

Day trips

Islay – popular in the area (distance from the center)

In the vicinity of Islay, it's worth seeing attractions such as: Barry's Amusements (Portrush), Fair Head, Dunluce Castle (Portrush).

43 milesSW
Theme park, Amusement park
Barry's Amusements, Portrush
Barry's Amusements stands as a vibrant beacon of fun and excitement in the seaside town of Portrush, Northern Ireland. Established in 1926, this family-run amusement park has been delivering thrills and laughter to generations of visitors, making it a beloved landmark...
37 milesS
Climbing
Fair Head
Fair Head, located in County Antrim, Northern Ireland, is a mecca for rock climbers and outdoor enthusiasts alike. Known for its rugged beauty, this prominent headland rises 196 meters above sea level, offering some of the most challenging and exhilarating climbs in...
41 milesS
Ruined fortress in dramatic location
Dunluce Castle, Portrush
Perched on the rugged coastal cliffs of Northern Ireland, Dunluce Castle is an evocative historical landmark that draws visitors to the city of Portrush with its dramatic scenery and rich past. The ruins of this medieval castle, dating back to the 14th century, tell a...
47 milesN
Nature, Natural attraction, Cave
Fingal's Cave
Fingal's Cave, located on the uninhabited island of Staffa in the Inner Hebrides of Scotland, is a natural wonder that has captivated the imaginations of travelers, artists, and musicians for centuries. This sea cave, renowned for its unique geological features...
41 milesN
Pilgrimage site with 4 High Crosses
Iona Abbey, Iona
Iona Abbey is an abbey located on the island of Iona, just off the Isle of Mull on the West Coast of Scotland. It is one of the oldest Christian religious centres in Western Europe. The abbey was a focal point for the spread of Christianity throughout Scotland and marks the foundation of a monastic community by St.

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Best Time To Visit Islay

Learn when is the best time to travel to Islay weather-wise and what to expect in each season.

Popularity among visitors

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May, June and July are the busiest months in this location. Many people also choose to visit in August.

Average temperatures in °F

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The highest air temperature is in June, July, August and September. While the coldest is in January, February, March and December.

Monthly rainfall in inches

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The lowest rainfall is recorded in May. Most of it rains in January, October and November.

Length of day in hours

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We can expect the longest days in June, while the shortest in December.

Sunrise

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What are the top attractions to visit in Islay?

The top attractions to visit in Islay are:

What is the best time to visit Islay?

May, June and July are the busiest months in this location. Many people also choose to visit in August. The highest air temperature is in June, July, August and September. While the coldest is in January, February, March and December.