islay bike tour

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Top 5 Bike Rides and Cycling Routes around Islay

Cycling around islay.

Looking for the best cycling routes around Islay? On this page, we bring you the best bike rides around Islay so you can just get out and go. All you’ve got to do is choose your route!

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Machir Bay, Saligo Bay & Sanaigmore Beach loop from Port Askaig

Islay whisky distillery tour from port ellen.

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Port charlotte loop from port charlotte, bruichladdich distillery – port charlotte loop from port charlotte, lagavulin distillery – ardbeg distillery loop from port ellen.

Our Tour recommendations are based on thousands of activities completed by other people on komoot.

Popular around Islay

Road Cycling Collection by komoot

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Find the perfect Tour

Explore the most popular tours around islay, discover the most popular attractions around islay.

Explore more of Argyll and Bute : Browse the best Cycling Routes in other regions.

• Kilmore And Kilbride
• Upper Loch Fyne Marine Protected Area
• Colintraive And Glendaruel
• Tarbert And Skipness
• Loch Tarsan
• West Kintyre
• Gleann Loch
• Lochgilphead
• Avich And Kilchrenan
• Hunters Quay
• Kilduskland Reservoir
• East Kintyre
• South Knapdale
• Kyles Of Bute
• West Lochfyne
• Loch Glashan
• Campbeltown
• Glenorchy And Innishail
• Glasdrum Wood National Nature Reserve
• Aucha Lochy
• South Cowal
• Cruachan Reservoir
• Loch Tallant
• Kilninver And Kilmelford
• Loch Sween Marine Protected Area
• Loch Uigeadail
• Glen Nant National Nature Reserve
• Loch Kinnabus
• Loch Dochard
• Scarba, Lunga And The Garvellachs

Destinations , Whisky

The Three Distillery Cycle on Islay

Ever dreamed of cycling along remote roads and beautiful landscapes with diverse wildlife? Islay is a wonderful island to discover by bike. The roads are reasonably flat and single-track, the places aren’t far apart and there are many beautiful locations to stop. And there’s whisky.

Earlier this month we did a quick trip to the Isle of Islay in Scotland, and as our time on the island was limited, we decided to hop on a bicycle to be able to explore more. I had previously come across the route for the three distilleries walk, which covers Laphroaig , Lagavulin and Ardbeg, and after a bit more research, I realised the route is also a cycle path, so it all made great sense to hire two bikes and see where the road took us from Port Ellen.

We stayed at the Islay Hotel in Port Ellen and found a bike rental very close to where the official cycle path begins. Of course, it is always much nicer if you can bring your own bikes, but if not, these bikes were only £20 a day. As soon as we got on the cycle path, we came across a deer right next to the road. The wildlife is everywhere on the island.

The three distillery -route is pretty quick on a bike, but you can keep cycling all the way to Ardtalla, where you will come across a closed gate and a small parking area. Make sure to bring your swimsuit as the beaches along the way are amazing. It was only 13 degrees (felt maybe more like 16), but the water didn’t actually feel too bad once you were in it. You also have a lovely beach in Port Ellen.

If you fancy sampling some whiskies, it may be worth doing so on your way back from Claggain Bay, as all three distilleries are very close by and close to one another. The first one is Laphroaig. At the moment they aren’t open for tastings or tours, but you can still visit the store and the grounds. Not far from there, along the cycle path, you will come to Lagavulin. They are offering tastings and the shop is open, but tours aren’t yet possible. At Lagavulin Bay you can also find the ruins of Dunyvaig Castle.

It’s a lovely cycle along the path all the way to Ardbeg , after which the road becomes a single-track road. We only came across a handful of cars so you can still enjoy the journey. I had a complimentary warehouse tour booked at Ardbeg at noon so we had lunch there as well. Normally the distillery has a lovely restaurant called The Old Kiln Café, but due to the pandemic, they were serving food and drinks from a food cart in the distillery courtyard. It was still a very pleasant experience as they had many tables around and some music playing. On a sunny day, this would be a great hangout.

The warehouse tasting was very informative, and Emma, our host, made it very relaxed and fun. As a born-and-bred lleach (a person from Islay), she has many stories to tell, and you will also learn about the island life as well as the whisky. We sampled six unique bottlings.

After the whisky and lunch break, we followed the road as far as we could. If you get lucky, you might see seals resting on the rocks of Seal Bay. Some have seen as many as 27 at one time! Unfortunately, we only managed to see an oystercatcher and some crabs. The tide was low so you could walk into the sea for a quite a distance if you don’t mind getting your feet wet.

The road continues for a while before you come across a sign on your right for the Kildalton Cross and Chapel. This is approximately 10km from Port Ellen, just to give you some idea of the distance. Kildalton Cross is one of the few remaining early Christian crosses in Scotland. It is nearly three metres high.

Claggain Bay is a sheltered part of Islay’s east coast, and it offers great views towards Kintyre, a peninsula in western Scotland. It is a great spot for birdwatching (you can find over 200 species on Islay), and the unspoilt sandy beach is worth the visit.

The overall trip was around 32km with a few moderate hills. There is no need to worry about the cars as there are many places to give way and people are really friendly. Some drivers even stop for a chat. We took our time with the ride and stopped for pictures and just to admire the scenery. Once back at the hotel, you will definitely feel like you’ve earned that dram! The Islay Hotel has a wide selection of whiskies, and the dinner menu has many tasty dishes.

I must admit, I didn’t think Islay had that much to offer compared to some of the other islands (excluding whisky…), but after our cycling trip, I think otherwise. It was a really great way to see more of the island and its beauty. Next time I hope we have more time to cycle around different parts of the island and discover some of the wildlife. Cycling is a great way to have a more balanced trip if you love your whisky and cheese as much as I do. Keeps you active, you’ll cover more ground and you can still enjoy a few drams.

A few tips before you go:

• Bike hire in Port Ellen – www.islaycycles.co.uk – £20 a day or £70 a week. Jim is very laid-back, just drop him an email or pop by.
• There’s also an e-bike hire in Port Ellen – www.islayewheels.co.uk – £30 a day with delivery to your location if you hire a minimum of three bikes.
• The Spar near the Islay Hotel sells black cheese that goes beautifully with many Islay whiskies.
• If you have an electric car, there is a free charging point at Port Ellen ferry terminal.
• During COVID times, it is safer to contact the distilleries ahead to book any tastings.
• No booking required for lunch at Ardbeg.
• If you like craft beers, don’t forget to sample some of the Islay Ales.
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We took our bikes to Islay a few years ago. Our first ride from Port Ellen to Bowmore was done in heavy rain, but the wind was so strong it had dried us out by the time we got there!

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Obviously the best way to make a great trip is to tell your local guide or tour operator and give them the chance to fix the solution while you are on your trip. Most things can be solved by telling your guide when the issue develops. If that doesn’t solve it, then email us right away. Please don’t wait to voice your concerns until the trip is over, as it’s much harder to solve issues after the fact.

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Arran, Islay, & Jura Road Cycling Tour

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Explore the magnificent Scottish Isles on this cycling tour

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About this tour:

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Why travellers choose this tour

At 10Adventures, we take care of the details so that our guests can focus on making memories. Enjoy these key features on this tour.

We're Canadian

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Accommodations

Accommodations for 6 nights along the tour. Accommodations before and after the tour in Glasgow are not included.

Don't worry about meals. 6 breakfasts, 6 lunches, 2 dinners, snacks along the route each day.

Check out the 'What's Included' tab for more info on personal transfers during your tour.

Local Support

Travel stress-free knowing in-country local support is available by regular phone or WhatsApp to support you during your tour.

Payments Made Easy

Enjoy the flexibility and ease of staggered payments in your own currency using your choice of credit card.

Route Resources

Route notes, maps, and/or a trail app make navigation on this tour a breeze.

Park Entrance Fees

Included where possible! Check the 'What's Included' tab for more info on park entrance fees during your tour.

Luggage transfers

Take a load off, with optional or included luggage transfers. Check inclusions for further details.

Accommodation for Arran, Islay, & Jura Road Cycling Tour

This tour is based in 3- and 4-star hotels and guesthouses. The accommodation for this tour is hand-picked from among the best and coziest country inns, guesthouses and small hotels available in the area.

All rooms have en suite facilities and you can choose between double or twin bed accommodations. Single rooms are also available for an additional fee, but please note that there is limited availability for single rooms.

Single Rooms and Solo Travelers You can pay a supplement of $625 USD to have a private room in a hotel. Contact us and we can try to match up single travelers when possible.

Hotel in Lamlash

The largest village on the Isle of Arran is also its oldest. The village is delightful, and it is also a perfect base for exploring the whole island.

Hotel at Bridgend

This picturesque village on the island of Islay is a central location at the intersection of Islay’s two main roads, ideal for any Islay adventure.

Hotel at Arduaine

Stay in beautiful accommodation near lovely beach, surrounded by 17 acres of well looked after gardens.

Hotels on Standard Tour

Planning a group trip?

Learn how we help group of friends, outdoor clubs and families get the tour they’ve been dreaming about.

Arran, Islay, & Jura Road Cycling Tour Details

Overview for arran, islay, & jura road cycling tour.

Come ye lads and lasses! Discover the beauty and magic of the incredible Scottish Isles in a special way on this Arran, Islay, and Jura Road Cycling Tour. Ride through picturesque villages and around the coast, experiencing the best of the region’s natural beauty, wildlife, and culture.

Ferry between the islands of Arran, Islay, and Jura where incredible views of rugged coastlines, caves, and castles abound. Watch for whales, dolphins, and sharks from the ferry. Picnic on sandy beaches with inspirational sea views. Learn about migratory birds on the islands, and visit historic sites such as standing stones, forts from the Iron Age, and the Kildalton Cross. Take a boat tour through the Straits of Corryvreckan and see the famous whirlpool.

And what Scottish Isles tour would be complete without visits to the renowned whisky distilleries and a tutored whisky tasting? This guided adventure tour of the Scottish Isles is too amazing to pass up. Book your Arran, Islay, and Jura Road Cycling Tour today!

Itinerary for Arran, Islay, & Jura Road Cycling Tour

Ferry to brodick on the isle of arran, transfer to lamlash.

Meet your guide at the Glasgow Queen Street Station in the morning (by 11:00 AM) and travel to Ardrossan on Scotland’s west coast. From here, a ferry takes you to the Isle of Arran. This island is often called, “Scotland in Miniature,” because its varied landscapes resemble the landscapes of the Scottish mainland: wild and mountainous in the north, forests and farmland in the south. It takes 55 minutes to cross the Firth of Clyde, where the River Clyde meets the ocean, and you’ll arrive on the Isle of Arran in Brodick, the main village on the island. The nearby village of Lamlash will be your home for the next two nights. Check in to your hotel and perform a bike check as a group. When all the bikes are fine tuned after traveling and ready for the tour, take a short warm-up ride before dinner.

Cycle around Southern Arran Isle

Ride today around Arran Isle’s southern half. While far less mountainous than the northern parts of the island, there will be some hills to conquer along the way. Head south from Lamlash, through Whiting Bay, and down around the southern end of the island. Stop to eat lunch at the cycling-friendly Velo Cafe in Lagg before the route turns northward again up the western side of the island. This section of the route offers many points of interest along the coastline. Watch for natural attractions such as crags, caves, and standing stones. You’ll also get some great views of castles and the Scottish mainland in the distance. Loop around to return to Lamlash through Brodick.

Cycle to Lochranza, Ferry to Kintyre Peninsula, Cycle to Kennacraig, Ferry to Islay

Cycle north today from Brodick. You’ll pass Arran’s highest peak, Goat Fell, as you wind along the road to Lochranza on the northern coast of the Isle of Arran. Take a ferry from here to Kintyre Peninsula of the Scottish mainland. Ride across the peninsula to the port at Kennacraig, where another ferry transports you to Islay island. On this two-hour crossing, pass the Isle of Gigha, then watch for dolphins, minke whales, and basking sharks as you travel through the Sound of Jura. When you arrive in Islay, cycle the short distance to your hotel, or choose to ride in the support vehicle if you prefer.

Cycle around the Isle of Islay

Explore the famous Isle of Islay by bicycle today. Islay is an island in the southern part of the Hebrides archipelago. In the morning, transfer to the picturesque village of Portnahaven, on the southwestern coast of the island, where you will likely see grey seals in the harbour. Follow the western coast, keeping the Atlantic in sight, then descend toward Port Charlotte. Turn north again to come to a wild sand beach, which is the perfect place to enjoy your picnic lunch. After lunch, begin riding back to Bridgend. Before heading back to the hotel, stop at the wildlife reserve at Loch Gruinart. Visit the RSPB Centre (Royal Society for the Protection of Birds) to learn about Islay’s importance to many species of birds, including migrating geese, lapwing, hen harrier, and corncrake.

Explore Islay’s Whisky Coast

Continue to explore Islay today with a somewhat shorter ride along quiet back roads through Islay’s countryside. First, head south toward Port Ellen, and when you reach the coast follow the road to the left to tour Islay’s famous “Whisky Coast”. You’ll pass Islay’s three famous distilleries: Laphroaig, Lagavulin, and Ardbeg. Continue a short distance beyond these to see the famous Kildalton Cross, a monolithic Celtic cross estimated to have been carved in the 8th Century. Ride back to the cafe at Ardbeg for lunch, then spend the afternoon learning more about whisky with a whisky tasting. The length of today’s route can vary depending on which distilleries you choose to visit. Then return to Bridgend to spend the night.

Cycle Jura’s Main Road, Boat Tour to the Gulf of Corryvreckan

On your final day of cycling, head to Jura for an exceptional finale to your tour. In the morning, ride from Bridgend to the nearby Port Askaig for a quick ferry ride to Jura that only takes a few minutes. Since the ferry to Jura is only a passenger ferry, the support van will stay behind on Islay. Once you reach Jura, cycle up the islands only main road, passing the distillery and many interesting historical sites, including forts from the Iron Age, standing stones, and ancient burial grounds. Follow the road up Jura’s eastern coast to reach the village of Craighouse, where you will stop at a cozy cafe to eat lunch with lovely bay views. After lunch, continue riding up the coast, then leave Jura aboard a private boat. Travel first to the Gulf of Corryvreckan, famous for a whirlpool that is created by the changing tides, then continue on to return to the Scottish mainland. Spend the night in a coastal hotel where you’ll enjoy 17 acres of beach and gardens, as well as a dinner to celebrate the successful completion of your tour. You may want to cap off the tour with a dram of local whisky from the Scottish Isles.

Tour Adruaine Garden, Transfer to Glasgow

Take time this morning for a leisurely breakfast at your hotel, then take a short stroll around the nearby Arduaine Garden. Arduaine Garden is run by the National Trust for Scotland, and its strategic location on the Sound of Jura was chosen due to the warming effects of North Atlantic Drift. A surprising selection of plants from around the world grows here, and this leaves a beautiful last impression of your Scottish Isles tour. From here, the return trip to Glasgow takes nearly 3 hours. As you pass through Inverary and Loch Fyne, stop to eat lunch (not included), then plan to be back at Glasgow’s Queen Street Station by 2:00 PM. Have a pleasant journey.

Tour Highlights

Highlights for arran, islay, & jura road cycling tour.

Experience the beauty of the famous Scottish Isles of Arran, Islay, and Jura by bicycle.

Learn about the region’s wildlife, especially many species of birds and sea creatures.

Take a boat ride through the Straits of Corryvreckan and see the famous whirlpool.

Visit the Scottish Isles well-known whisky distilleries and attend a whisky tasting.

What's Included

What's included for arran, islay, & jura road cycling tour.

6 breakfasts, 6 lunches, 2 dinners, snacks along the route each day.

Transportation during the Tour

All transportation for you, your luggage, and your bike is included starting from Glasgow. This includes ferries and local boat transfers. Airport transfers are not included.

Also Included

• Professional lead guide and assistant guide/support driver services
• Ride support from vehicle
• Entrance and admission fees during the tour

Not included

• Bike Rental
• Transportation to and from Glasgow
• Personal expenses
• Anything not stated as ‘included’

Optional Extras

• Bike rental:
• Hybrid bike - $250 USD per trip
• Electric bike - $395 USD per trip
• Extra night in Glasgow before or after the tour

Dates & Prices

Dates and prices for arran, islay, & jura road cycling tour.

This guided biking tour in Scotland is run as a fixed-departure tour where you’d be joining a group, however, custom private tours can be organized for those willing to travel with their group only (please contact us with your preferred date and the number of people in your group and we will create the itinerary just for you).

Prices below are per person:

Accommodation

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Tour Booking Process

Booking process for arran, islay, & jura road cycling tour.

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Frequently asked questions for Arran, Islay, & Jura Road Cycling Tour

How hard is the Arran, Islay & Jura Road Cycling Tour?

We rate this tour as a 3 / 5. The elevation gain on this tour is minimal but expect to cycle on the roads for up to 65 km each day. For days that are too long, you can ride in the support vehicle.

Do I need a visa to travel to Scotland?

Check with your local country about visa requirements. You could also try this website , though you should verify with your government.

Is this biking tour to the Scottish Isles guaranteed?

We can guarantee the tour to run as soon as there are 2 people booked.

How big is the group?

The groups for this tour are between 2-8 people to ensure everything runs smoothly and everyone gets individual attention from the guide.

What do I do if I get tired during this cycling trip?

If you get tired, you can complete some sections of the route in the support vehicle.

Are meals included on the Arran, Islay & Jura Road Cycling Tour?

6 breakfasts, 6 lunches and 2 dinners are included.

Do I need insurance?

Yes, it is mandatory to have Health and Medical insurance to join this trip. Get your Travel Insurance .

How do I get to Glasgow to start this tour?

You can get to Glasgow by flying to Glasgow International Airport (GLA). This airport has connections with New York City, Toronto, Paris, Barcelona, Berlin, Milan, London and many other major cities. Glasgow is also connected to other cities in United Kingdom by rail. Please meet your guide at Glasgow Queen Street Station by 11:00 AM on the first day of your tour.

Is the Arran, Islay & Jura Road Cycling Tour in English?

Yes, the tour guide is English speaking.

Where does the Arran, Islay & Jura Road Cycling Tour end?

This tour ends where it begins, at Glasgow Queen Street Station. You can plan your onward journey for after 2:00 PM.

Can I rent a bike?

Yes! Bike rental can be added during the booking process. A selection of road bikes, hybrid bikes, and electric bikes are available. If bringing your own bike, be sure it is a road bike.

Can I bring my own bike?

Yes, definitely. Please make sure it’s a road bike.

Do I need special vaccines to travel to Scotland?

Check with your family doctor.

Are there any travel restrictions for Scotland?

Please check with your local government about travel restrictions before you book your tour. This map from the US Department of State provides an overview of the current status in countries around the globe. The UK‘s Foreign Office and Government of Canada also provide advice on foreign travel. Note that the travel advice may change depending on your nationality.

When is the best time to travel to Scotland for this tour?

The best time to travel to Scotland for this tour is from May to September.

Tour Difficulty

Difficulty for arran, islay, & jura road cycling tour.

Read about our scale for Tour Difficulty Ratings.

This tour was made for you!

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The Essential Guide to Visiting Islay

Planning a Trip to Islay

If you’re planning on visiting Islay, here is everything you need to know about this incredible island. This post was written as part of a paid campaign with Explore Islay & Jura and the information is based on my various visits to the island. Check out my other blog on the top things to do on Islay .

Islay has fast become the island that I know best . Four visits worth of adventures and experiences, with another planned for this September, has afforded me the opportunity to immerse myself in all the things that make this island so special. Whisky is, of course, Islay’s ultimate claim to fame ; it is a way of life on this windswept isle. That said, there is so much more to Islay’s charm than its golden drams: the landscape, the light, the coast, the cuisine, and the locals.

My fondness for Islay grows with every visit , and while I experience new things each time, I always leave pining for more. Islay will make you feel warm and fuzzy inside , and not just by drinking drams! I have a wee hunch that I will be a lifetime regular on this island.

If you are planning a trip to Islay, or are simply looking to get inspired, this post brings together all the essential practical information that you need to get started , from how to plan your journey and get around the island, to choosing accommodation and which distilleries to visit. For ideas on how to spend your time on the island, check out my other post on the best things to do on Islay .

How to Pronounce Islay

Before we proceed, let’s address the all-important issue of pronunciation. Islay does not require a ‘say it as you see it’ approach, so if you’ve been calling it “EYE-LAY”, it’s time to stand corrected and drop the “Y”.  Islay is pronounced “EYE-LA” and no one says it better than a local with their lovely, lilting accent.

Where is Islay

Islay is the southernmost of the Inner Hebrides , and forms part of a group of islands which are also referred to as the Southern Hebrides: it’s closest neighbours are Jura, Gigha and Colonsay. The island sits between the Kintyre Peninsula on the west coast of Scotland and Northern Ireland, which looks surprisingly close on a clear day.

At 25 miles long by 15 miles wide, Islay is the fifth largest island in Scotland, and it’s rich, fertile land has earned the island its nickname as the ‘Queen of the Hebrides’ . The abundance of peat in the rugged landscape makes Islay the perfect ‘whisky island’, and it is this natural fossil fuel which gives Islay single malt its classic, smoky flavour.

How to get to Islay

Islay is accessible by flight or ferry, and it is possible to reach the island entirely on public transport . I have taken to the air and to the sea, and I loved both experiences. How you choose to travel to Islay will depend on how much time you have, your budget, and where you’re coming from.

Fly from Glasgow to Islay with Loganair

The quickest way to get to Islay is on the Loganair flight from Glasgow . There are usually two flights per day (only one on weekends) and the flight time is 45 minutes. I love the experience of flying on Loganair’s wee tartan-tailed planes, and seeing the islands from the sky.

Flying is the most expensive way to travel, with flights ranging from £54.99 to over £100 each way, but it is ideal if you are only taking a short break or you don’t fancy the added journey to the ferry port. Book your seats in advance for the best fares and sign up to the Loganair newsletter to find out about any sales/discounts.

Getting to Glasgow Airp ort by public transport: take the bus to Buchanan Street Station then take the Glasgow Airport Express directly to the airport, or, take the train to Queen Street Station and catch the same bus to the airport from the bus stop at George Square. The journey time to the airport can be as little as 15 minutes and you can buy tickets in advance online or on the bus on the day which currently costs £14 for an open return.

Ferry from Kennacraig to Islay

The cheapest way to travel to Islay is by ferry from Kennacraig. There are two ferry ports on Islay, Port Ellen in the south (journey time 2 hours 20 minutes) and Port Askaig in the north east (journey time 1 hour 55 minutes). Which port you arrive into will be determined by the day of the week and the time you choose to travel, or you can base it on which port is closest to where you’re staying. Both ferries leave from Kennacraig on the mainland.

Cars must be booked onto the ferry in advance and check-in is 30 minutes prior to departure. Due to social distancing measures and managing capacity, foot passengers should also pre-book their journey and arrive no later than 10 minutes before departure. A return ticket on the ferry currently costs £71.10 per car plus £14.20 per adult. You can view the timetable and book your tickets on the CalMac website .

Getting to Kennacraig from Glasgow on public transport: Kennacraig is on the Scottish Citylink service 926from Glasgow Buchanan Street to Campbeltown. The journey time from Glasgow to Kennacraig is approximately 3 hours 15 minutes and you can get advanced fares for as little as £23.60 return. Be sure to book in advance and check that the bus time links in with the ferry service; the bus pulls right into the ferry terminal for a seamless journey. You can view the timetable and book your journey on the Scottish Citylink website .

Ferry from Oban to Islay

There is an infrequent ferry service from Oban to Port Askaig if you are travelling to/from this direction or if you plan to extend your adventure and do more island hopping from Oban. This journey is more expensive than the Kennacraig route at £109.10 per car plus £14.20 per passenger return, and it takes around 4 hours.

Getting to Oban from Glasgow: take the ScotRail train from Glasgow Queen Street to Oban or take the Citylink bus from Glasgow Buchanan Street to Oban. Both journeys take around 3 hours 10 minutes and offer stunning scenery. The bus is the cheaper option at £25.30 for an advanced return ticket, while an off-peak return on the train is £40.90; although better priced fares can be picked up 12 weeks in advance (set up a ticket alert on the TheTrainLine to be notified when they go on sale).

Driving on Islay

Lots of visitors travel to Islay in their own vehicles on the ferry; do remember to pre-book your car on the ferry if this is the case. If you’re flying to the island and would like to hire a car, Islay Car Hire operate from Islay Airport and are based there in line with the flight times. If you are arriving by ferry, but would still like to hire a car, you will need to arrange a suitable time to collect your car from the airport. 

It is important to educate yourself on the driving etiquette when you’re exploring rural areas and islands in Scotland. The roads are often winding and single-track , so care should be taken at all times, and Passing Places are there for a reason : to allow overtaking and two-way traffic on single track roads.

Another important piece of island etiquette is the famous ‘Islay wave’ . Whenever you pass a local on the road, you will be treated to a friendly wave, which you obviously have to reciprocate. This is such a pleasant wee exchange and one of the things I love about Islay.

There are Petrol Stations in Port Ellen, Bowmore and Port Charlotte . The opening hours vary, so I would recommend taking note in advance to ensure that you don’t get caught short.

My most recent visit to Islay was on a girls’ road-trip with the Yvette from Wayfaring Kiwi. Check out her blog post covering the perfect 5-day itinerary for first time visitors to Islay

Getting around islay on public transport.

Islay is absolutely doable on public transport for visitors who, like me, don’t drive or for those who just don’t want to: drinking whisky and driving is not a good mix. It is also illegal! Travelling by public transport is a slower way of travel (not a bad thing when adopting the island pace) and you won’t be able to reach some of the places you would with a car, but for first time visitors or those who don’t plan to venture too far off the beaten track, exploring Islay on public transport is a great experience . These are the ways you can explore Islay without a car.

Local Buses on Islay

The local bus service connects all of the main towns and most of the distilleries . The bus stops near the ferry ports in Port Ellen and Port Askaig, and directly outside Islay Airport. The buses only run until the evening , so if you are relying on public transport and would like to venture out for dinner and drinks, it would be worth basing yourself in or around one of the main towns, Bowmore or Port Ellen. You could also choose an accommodation which offers food and drink or book a local taxi. You can view the bus timetable here .

Local Taxis on Islay

There are a number of locals who run taxi services on the island , which I have used in the evenings to take me back to my accommodation. There are a limited number of taxis however, so I would always book your journey in advance. Some taxi drivers also offer full and half day tours of the island. I can personally recommend Jim’s Islay Taxi for both taxis and tours. Jim is a lovely legend of a man, whom my Dad and I stayed with on our first visit to Islay.

Bike Hire on Islay

Another fantastic way to explore Islay is by eBike with Islay E Wheels . This will allow you to reach locations which are not served by bus and to treat yourself to a healthy dose of fresh, island air while you’re at it! The bikes can be picked up in Port Ellen or delivered to your location of choice for £10 (free for 3 bikes or more) and they cost £30 per day. There aren’t any massive hills to tackle on the bike, but the island isn’t completely flat either, so the extra push from the eBike is much appreciated.

The Three Distilleries Pathway

You can walk or cycle the Three Distilleries Pathway from Port Ellen , which links three distilleries in three miles: Laphroaig, Lagavulin and Ardbeg. It is a beautiful route of countryside and coastline, and you can plan distillery visits along the way, followed by a street-food style lunch at the new ‘Ardstream’ Trailer in the courtyard at Ardbeg: a perfect way to spend the day on Islay!

Which Distilleries to Visit on Islay

There are a whopping nine whisky distilleries on Islay , with more underway, so you’ll never find yourself far from one of these iconic white-washed buildings donned with huge lettering. Even if you’re not (yet) a lover of single malt, I would say that at least one distillery tour is a must when visiting Islay.

The distilleries, which are open year-round, each have their own unique stories, tours and traditions . They all offer a great experience, so you really can’t go wrong. At the moment, due to COVID restrictions, the  distilleries are open to visitors, but some still aren’t offering their usual tours or a visit must be booked by appointment. Please check the individual websites for opening times, tours and updates on the situation.

• Easiest distilleries to reach without a car – Bowmore , Laphroaig , Lagavulin , Ardbeg and Bruichladdich are all accessible by bus.
• Distilleries with the best views – Ardnahoe , Bunnahabhain and Caol Ila at Port Askaig have incredible views across to the Paps of Jura.
• Distilleries with a café – Ardbeg for the alfresco Ardstream Trailer, Ardnahoe for the lovely café which hosts whisky & food pairing experience, and Kilchoman for delicious Cullen Skink.

Visiting Islay with Kids

Due to its reputation as Scotland’s ‘whisky island’, I’m often asked if Islay is suitable for families with children. Aside from its distilleries, Islay is just like all the other Scottish islands in that the main attraction is the outdoors . If your family enjoys being outside and can be entertained with walks, beach days and water-based activities, then you will absolutely appreciate Islay. There are some indoor options too, which are handy for rainy days. My top suggestions for family-friendly activities on Islay are:

• Book a wildlife watching boat trip with Islay Sea Adventures
• Have a day at the beach at The Singing Sands or Machir Bay
• Burn off some energy at the children’s play park at the Port Mor Centre in Port Charlotte
• Go for a swim in the indoor pool at the MacTaggart Leisure Centre in Bowmore

For more inspiration on travelling Islay with kids, check out this blog post by Edinburgh-based travel photographer and explorer Kim Kjaerside

Visiting islay with pets.

If you like to bring your beloved pet on adventures, Islay is the perfect host with plenty beaches for energetic walks, a range of dog friendly accommodation and a number of eateries which welcome dogs in the outside eating areas (some inside too) including Port Charlotte Hotel, Bridgend Hotel and Ardbeg Distillery.

How to Spend your Time on Islay

Your time visiting Islay can be as relaxing or energetic as you want it to be . Some visitors will benefit from simply enjoying the food, drink and slower pace, while others will be excited to try the outdoor and water-based activities. Here is an overview of experiences on Islay, however I have covered these all in much more detail in my blog full of suggestions for things to do when visiting Islay .

• Visit a whisky distillery (obviously!)
• Explore the ruins and history of the Lords of the Isles at Finlaggan
• Go seal spotting in the picturesque village of Portnahaven
• Explore the beaches and coastline on a Fat Bike Tour
• Paddle the coast on a half or full day sea kayaking trip
• Visit the Museum of Islay Life in Port Charlotte
• Discover Carraig Fhada Lighthouse and the stunning Singing Sands

Accommodation on Islay

There is a wide variety of accommodation on Islay, from hostels and glamping pods to homely B&Bs and high-end guesthouses and hotels . Good quality accommodation doesn’t come cheap on Islay, however there are some budget-friendly self-catering options available. My main bit of advice would be to stay with local hosts if you can so that you can experience the wonderful island hospitality and local recommendations .

When planning my adventures, I usually start my search on Booking.com or Airbnb to see what’s available for my chosen dates. Some accommodation providers on Islay are not listed on booking engines or Airbnb so it is also worth just going a Google search on the type of accommodation you’re after and contacting hosts directly. Here are some suggestions to get you started:

Camping and glamping

Port Mor Campsite in Port Charlotte has pitches for tents and motorhomes, as well as a café and a playpark. Islay Storm Pods in Lagavulin has 5 glamping pods and a holiday cottage (I’m staying in one of the pods in September).

Hostels – Hostelling Scotland run the family-friend Port Charlotte Youth Hostel . The hostel is located in an old distillery warehouse building within close walking distance of the Port Charlotte Hotel , which is great for food, drinks and live music.

Guesthouses

Glenmachrie House offers a wonderful, homely experience with huge portions of freshly prepared breakfast plus home-baking. Glenegedale House (my favourite place to stay on Islay) is a 5*, multi-award winning guesthouse which serves sharing boards on whisky barrel tops and Laphroaig with your breakfast porridge.

Kintra Farm , near the beautiful Kintra Beach, has 4 self-catering properties on site. Ballivicar Farm , just outside Port Ellen, has 3 self-catering apartments with one or two bedrooms.

The Harbour Inn in Bowmore is a lovely, modern Scottish hotel which is centrally located near Bowmore Harbour and serves excellent food. The Machrie , near Islay Airport, is Islay’s luxury resort-style hotel, complete with a golf course, spa, bar and restaurant. There are also self-catering lodges which allow guests the best of both worlds.

This post is sponsored by Explore Islay & Jura . As always, all content, opinions & chaotic behaviour are my own.

Safe + happy travels,, kay 💙, you may also like.

The Best Things to Do on Islay: Distilleries, Food & Outdoor Activities

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Scottish Cycle Routes Worth the Hype- The Islay Whisky Trail

by The Cycle Jersey | Jul 07, 2020

Now, they say the customer is always right - and some times that's hard to hear, believe you me.  However, in this case the above fact is not faulted, nor questioned whatsoever, not one bit!  Fellow whisky  connoisseurs and buddying TCJ fans Rick and Stu took to the illustrious  Isle of Islay  to experience the islands eight working whisky distilleries.

Bunnahabhain Distillery ; the most northerly of the distilleries and considered by many to be the most untypical of Islay...  Swooping through the single track road, the momentous smell of malt was enough to awaken the Giant within!

• Production Tour:  09:30  (50 mins - £7)
• Warehouse 9 Experience:  10:30  (1 hour/ 5 drams - £25)

All aboard the ferry Port Askaig-Feolin (duration 5:00 mins) - £3.20 return.

Isle of Jura Distillery  - previously known as: Craighouse, Small Isles and Caol nan Eilea, is next on the list and home to a peaty whisky (and about 6000 deer).  The road to Jura is peaceful, in fact there are probably as many cars on the road there as there is distilleries on the island!  The reserved shoreline road eventually takes a turn inland and begins to climb - there's really only one path to follow; that of the overgrown ferns and grass.  Further along the road, walls and farms begin to emerge and the chimney of Jura is in plain sight - a quick descent and you'll be right outside the stunning Jura distillery.

• Distillery Tour:  14:00  (45 mins - £6)

Caol ila Distillery;  situated on the NE shores of Islay, with magnificent views across the Sound of Islay to the Paps of Jura.  This is the largest distillery on Islay, traditionally producing peated whiskey, but unpeated has since been produced - primarily for blending purposes.

• Distillery Tour: 16:00 or Drop in for a wee complimentary dram (open until 17:30)

Kilchoman Distillery   - small in comparison to the others on the island and farm based, located not too far from  Bruichladdich  distillery.  Every step of the production process takes place on-site, giving the grand old expression 'from barely to bottle' great meaning.  By now there's probably been a few tumbles from the bike (nothing the Whisky can't help though, I'm sure), but you're well on your way to the next two distillery stops as over and beyond the dips, either side sits Kilchoman and Brusichladdich.

• Distillery Tour: 10:00 (1 hour/ 2 drams – £7)
• Tasting options not time specific

Bruichladdich Distillery  -  the very distinctive aqua marine colours of the casks and the bright yellow  MOD registered submarine  (you'd need to read the story to believe it) haha! The welcoming gesture marks the halfway mark on the Islay tour.

• Tour: 11:00, 13:00, 14:00 (1 hour - £5)
• Drop in for a free tasting – licensed after 11:00 (bottles under £200)

Bowmore Distillery  - the original Islay distillery and home to the oldest Scotch Whisky maturation warehouse in the world!  'A place of legend and craftsmanship, of beauty and reflection, the No. 1 Vaults is where Bowmore single malt Scotch whisky is meticulously matured until perfect. Our master distillers have been doing it that way since 1779'.

• Classic Tour: 12:30/14:00
• Tasting Bar: 12:00 – 15:30

Ardbeg Distillery  -  a favourite in the office, for sure!  'Ardbeg has been called “as close to perfection as makes no difference,” by whisky connoisseurs'.   These three distilleries are all only a matter of miles away from each other (1.1m to Lagavulin)

Are you part of  Velo Club d'Ardbeg  yet...?

• Full Range Tour & Tasting:  10:00  (1 hour 45 mins/ 5 drams - £20)
• Old Kiln Café (lunch)

Laphroaig Distillery  - Closest to Port Ellen, Laphraoig is the most informal tasting experience offered on that part of the island. Only 1.2 miles to Lagavulin!

• Laphroaig Experience Tour: 14:00 (1 hour/ 3 drams - £10)
• Layers of Laphroaig Tasting: 15:15 (1 hour - £20)

Lagavulin Distillery  - another favourite in the office over here (watch this space for a jersey)...  Situated at the picturesque Lagavulin Bay, this is an experience not to be missed.  The sight of Lagavulin distillery hits you like the first time you put your nose to a smoky whisky - WOAH! It's certainly makes a big entrance, the way that it suddenly comes into view and how perfect it looks. The buildings are white and there is not a single blemish on them. There is a pagoda roof and a wall with “Lagavulin” in large lettering.

• Core Range Tasting Tour:  15:30  (1 hour/ 3 drams - £15)
• Sensory Tasting Experience: 14:30 (5 drams - £35)

Cycling on Islay is something you have to experience!  For one - Islay whisky is among the best in the world, but there is also over  131 routes  across the island!

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Fat Bike Islay

Guided Fat Bike tours along golden, sandy beaches, through varied woodland and along quiet tracks, stopping for a brew-up along the way. Opportunities to look for wildlife as you cycle along along experiencing the natural heritage of Islay.

Why Fat Bikes? Fat Bikes allow visitors an exciting way of exploring and experiencing the coast with access to beaches and tracks looking for wildlife, exploring Islay’s natural wonders and historical sites. Due to their 4 inch balloon tyres Fat Bikes are particularly ideal for beach riding where they can float over sand and pebbles giving wonderful access to this amazing environment. Not only that, they are amazing fun, simple to ride and no heavier than any normal bike.  Do read our reviews on TripAdvisor . We have four main routes and many other options too; • Explore the 5 mile long Big Strand beach from the airport (flat) • Three Distilleries pathway with otter tracking along the route (some small hills) • Kintra Hill Track past Frachdale village and forest track. (moderately hilly) • Kilnaughton to Port-an-Eas waterfall (hilly) Other rides can include Bridgend woods, Staoisha to Bunnahabhain, Feolin ferry towards the base of the Paps (Jura). We are very happy to discuss your requirements with you and tailor a trip to suit your needs and wishes. Respecting Nature: All of our routes and activities take in to account respect for our natural environment and minimising our impact as much as possible. For instance, with its large and varied bird population Islay has nesting sites that must be avoided during breeding season. Otter watching is also carried out respectfully with disturbance to the otters being minimised. We regularly liaise with the RSPB and seek their guidance in these matters. Qualifcations: our leaders are MIAS level 2 qualifed guides (Mountain bike Instructors Award Scheme) we also have REC First Aid qualifcations. We currently offer half day adventures at £50 per person. Maximum group size is limited to five. If you don’t have much time shorter rides can be agreed. Kayak Wild Islay provide Fat Bikes and Helmets and gloves. All you need to enjoy your ride is either shorts or leggings (reflective bands are available for trousers) a waterproof jacket, trainers or sturdy shoes/boots and a yearning for exploration and adventure!

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Road Cycling Tour of Arran, Islay & Jura

Calling all cyclists! Looking for the best way to experience a holiday on the stunning islands of Arran, Islay and Jura? Then jump aboard this island hopping adventure with Wilderness Scotland and cycle on some of Scotland’s finest roads. Spend 7 days/6 nights touring the stunning coastal landscapes of these mountainous islands just a few miles from Scotland’s prehistoric west coast.

You’ll meet your guide in Glasgow on the first day of the trip and then journey on to Ardrossan on the west coast to catch a ferry out to the mountainous Isle of Arran. You’ll arrive in Brodick after an hour at sea and will transfer to the accommodation. Here you can check your bike for the final time before two days of exploring the Isle of Arran.

Days two and three will be spent touring the Island, starting off with the south Arran loop that will take you all across the flatter side of the island, following gorgeous coastal paths, ancient coastlines awash with history and a few rewarding climbs before returning you to the accommodation for dinner and drinks. The next morning you’ll get ready to go in the hotel before cycling north, past the large Goatfell mountain (the islands highest) and north to the ferry crossing to Islay. You’ll be able to witness stunning landscapes, untapped wilderness and even some sea life as you cycle and then sail across to the famous whiskey producing Island of Jura.

How can I book myself onto this trip?

You’ll explore the picturesque island of Islay on your fourth and fifth days, taking in its gorgeous scenery and Atlantic wildlife. The island is a reserve for many species of seabird, so enthusiasts will be able to spot rare birds circling above as you cycle along the rugged coastline. Next up is a tour of the whiskey coast, passing three famous distilleries and an ancient stone cross. You’ll have the opportunity to partake in whiskey tasking experiences before transferring back to the hotel.

You’ll catch an early morning ferry on the sixth day, disembarking on Jura and tasting some fine cycling on quiet roads and witnessing some truly epic sites from ancient history like the various iron age forts, burial grounds and standing stones that you’ll pass on your ride. As part of the expedition you are also treated to a private boat ride out to the Gulf of Coryvreckan before transferring you back to the mainland for the final day. On the final day you’ll transfer back to Glasgow.

• Explore three of Scotland’s most beautiful islands
• Professional cycling guide
• All inclusive
• Accommodation included
• Prices start at £2,095

Wilderness Scotland

Check out things to do nearby....

Visit Scotland iCentre Glasgow

The Scottish Design Exchange in Glasgow

Catch a show at Glasgow’s Royal Concert Hall

Walking tours in Glasgow City Centre

Ghost Tour Exploration Game in Glasgow

Clyde River Cycle Tour in Glasgow

Gallery of Modern Art in Glasgow

The Pavilion Theatre in Glasgow

The Lighthouse Glasgow

Princes Square Shopping Centre Glasgow

The Underground – LGBTQ Nightclub in the centre of Glasgow!

Street Art Walking Tour in Glasgow

Cycling on the Isle of Islay

• Bikepacking / Camping / Freetime
• Neil Braidwood

Neil Braidwood takes to the slow lane as he pedals around the island of Islay.

The Isle of Islay is known as the Queen of the Hebrides. Devilishly difficult to get to by car, Scottish airline Loganair has been operating flights there from Glasgow for decades. Earlier this year the company launched a daily flight from Edinburgh, so I hopped on board for a mini adventure.

The island is relatively small, but home to eight whisky distilleries (actually another one opened the weekend I visited, bringing the total to nine!) Most are big players – Ardbeg , Lagavulin and Bowmore are no strangers – while Kilchoman is classified as a micro distillery.

I knew the island was relatively flat, so my plan was to hire a bicycle from Islay Cycles, based in Port Ellen in the south, and tour around at a slower pace.

Owner Jim Lutomski had my steed all ready for me – he has an extensive fleet, which includes children’s bikes and a tandem – but the one I was after was an electric bicycle. The weather can be unpredictable on the west coast of Scotland, and I reckoned I could use all the help I could get. Jim explained that the Raleigh Captus was “not like a moped” – the onboard Bosch motor merely assists with pedalling, and the battery would need recharged when required. Jim throws in a helmet, lights and a pannier, and I’m on the bike and on my way.

There are four settings to choose from: eco, touring, sport and turbo. Use the bike in turbo all the time and you will quickly deplete the battery, so I stuck to eco for my first journey – to my B&B for the night, the evocatively-titled Glenmachrie House, near the airport.

Rachel Whyte runs the B&B with her husband Alasdair, and she welcomed me at the door of the Victorian farmhouse, ushering me into the guest lounge for a very welcome afternoon tea. Cheese and ham sandwiches, homemade date and walnut cake, banana loaf and a cafetiere of coffee were brought through, and I made short work of the lot while perusing a superb photography book of the island.

There are four rooms, and mine (named Leorin), overlooked the gardens at the front of the house, and Leorin farm beyond. I figured I needed a nap after that afternoon tea, and when I wake up it’s time for dinner.

Rachel doesn’t offer dinner at Glenmachrie, so I decided to cycle to Bowmore, the island’s capital, about six miles (9.5km) away. There are a few restaurants to choose from here, and I venture into the Harbour Inn, owned by Bowmore (the distillery). The restaurant is quiet, so I choose the lively bar, ordering a half pint of langoustine and some fries. It’s not long before I fall into conversation with two men sitting next to me, and after a while, we are sharing a Bowmore 12-year-old malt, putting the world to rights.

My cycle back was uneventful, but I am glad of the bike lights, as it is dark before I reach the comfort of my bed at Glenmachrie.

On the road

The next day, I want to get on the road as quickly as possible, so I have breakfast at 7.30am. There is a groaning buffet of cereals, fruit and juice, followed by porridge, and then the full Scottish – one of the biggest fried breakfasts I have seen. I make a valiant attempt, but just can’t complete it.

Rachel sends me on my way with a couple of slices of date and walnut loaf for the journey, promising she will try an electric bike sometime.

I make my way to Bowmore again, this time, to take a tour of the distillery. It’s just me and a couple of Americans on the tour, and we are shown the whole process of creating Bowmore whisky. Our guide, although only 20 years old, has a grandfather who worked at the distillery in the 1960s, so is able to pass on anecdotes from him. It is my first distillery tour, but the Americans have already visited three on Islay, and rate this as one of the best. We end the trip in the bar, naturally, and are presented with a 12, 15 and 18-year-old dram to sample. My new American cousins and I spend a few hours getting to know each other over the whisky – this really is living the good life.

Wild camping

My second night on Islay will be under canvas. Scotland has a ‘Freedom to Roam Act’ which allows you to wild camp pretty much anywhere – within reason – so my next quest is to find a suitable spot to pitch my lightweight tent.

I have already decided on the west coast, and I can see from my trusty Ordnance Survey map that there are few houses on this side of the island, but a couple of interesting looking beaches. Machir Bay, near Kilchoman Distillery, takes my fancy and I plough on along a single track B road until I reach the dunes.

It’s a stunning day, and there are a few cars parked up already, including some vans with surfboards. I begin to doubt my decision, but decide to look for a suitable spot anyway. Climbing the dunes, the beach takes my breath away. The sands stretch out for ages, and as I look out over the horizon, I realise that the next stop is America.

I find a suitable discreet hollow and make camp. My intention is to pitch my Rab Ridge Master and head off for some dinner, returning just before sunset. Without my backpack I feel considerably lighter as I cycle off towards Port Charlotte, the nearest town. I make good progress, passing through Bruichladdich, site of yet another distillery.

Port Charlotte is a quaint town, with a couple of eateries. I pull up a seat in the bar of the Port Charlotte Hotel. There are some great views from here, plus, they have an electrical socket where I can recharge my bike’s battery. I try a pint of Big Strand lager from the local brewery Islay Ales – it certainly hits the spot and I begin to relax.

The cycle back to my campsite at Machir Bay is tiring, but I know I’ll sleep tonight. There’s only one van left in the car park, so I pretty much have the beach to myself. It’s a spectacular sunset, and as the last flame of orange dips below the horizon, I pull the zip on my tent and turn in for the night to the sound of the waves lapping the shore.

I woke the next day, after a fitful night’s sleep. The wind had picked up and buffeted the tent through the night, but it was lovely to gaze out over the empty beach as I packed up my kit.

It was a frantic cycle to Bowmore to catch breakfast at the Lochside Hotel (they stop serving at 9.30am). I was ready for my plate of porridge (with honey and cream), and the eggs benedict was delicious; the yolks re minded me of the setting sun last night.

One last task was to cycle to Port Ellen to drop off my bike, and as I passed the sign for the village, the battery gave up on me, and I felt the bike get considerably heavier.

I was still able to pedal myself to Jim’s house though, and catch my taxi back to the airport.

My two days have flown by – but I feel they have been spent well. Having a bicycle made me plan things more, and also factor in the time to see everything. I crammed so much into my mini adventure, and met some great people along the way over a dram.

loganair.co.uk

visitscotland.com

islaycycles.co.uk

glenmachrie.co.uk

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The Perfect 5 Day Islay Itinerary

Categories Argyll & the Isles , Scotland , Scotland Itineraries , Scottish Islands

Are you planning a visit to the whisky island and looking for the perfect Islay itinerary? I spent several days on this beautiful island and I’ve come up with what I believe to be the ideal 5-day itinerary for first-time visitors to Islay. This post was written as part of a paid campaign with Explore Islay & Jura . All opinions are my own.

Table of Contents

Whisky, water, wildlife, and wellness: these were the themes of my very first trip to the Isle of Islay. These are also the reasons many people flock to the island every year; in search of the perfect dram and a holiday that engages all the senses.

Islay (pronounced ‘eye-la’) is known as the Queen of the Hebrides, and it’s the most southern of the Inner Hebrides islands. It is located off the west coast of Scotland in the region of Argyll; Northern Ireland lies directly south of Islay, with neighboring island Jura to the east and Gigha a little further south-east.

If you are a fan of whisky, make sure you visit Islay when you plan a trip to Scotland . Known as the ‘whisky island’, Islay has nine working distilleries and is home to the second oldest working distillery in Scotland, Bowmore.

During summer, I spent a whirlwind four days eating, drinking, cycling and sailing my way around Islay with my friend Kay.

My Islay itinerary is perfect for someone visiting Islay for the first time. It includes a visit to several whisky distilleries, wildlife watching, and wild swimming; indulging in freshly caught seafood, shopping at local artisan shops, and so much more.

If you’re not into whisky, there are plenty of activities I’ve included you will enjoy. I’ve also included my tips on how to get to Islay, getting around the island, and where to stay. I even added an extra day, because I believe you need at least five days when you visit Islay for the first time.

I hope my Islay itinerary provides inspiration for your visit to the island of magic, water, and whisky!

How to get to Islay

Getting to Islay is an adventure of its own. There are several ways to reach the island- all of them incredibly scenic.

Car + ferry

This is the option that I took, seeing as I live only a few hours away from the ferry port at Kennacraig .

The drive to Kennacraig is lovely; if you’re leaving from Edinburgh it takes 3.5 hours to reach the ferry port. It’s only a 2.5-hour drive from Glasgow . As soon as you arrive in the region of Argyll and Bute , the scenery begins to open up.

Be sure to stop at the Rest and Be Thankful Viewpoint and soak up the views. A good place to stop for a coffee, a quick bite to eat or some shopping is Inveraray , a small yet bustling town on the western shore of Loch Fyne . If you have time explore Inveraray Castle , a stunning Gothic country house and the seat of the Dukes of Argyll.

CalMac operates two ferries from Kennacraig to Islay. One takes you to Port Askaig on the east coast- this is the ferry you take if you want to carry on to Jura . The other takes you to Port Ellen which is on the south of Islay.

Public transport + ferry

You can also travel on public transport from Edinburgh and Glasgow to reach the Kennacraig Ferry Terminal. From Glasgow, you can take the bus, and from Edinburgh, you can take the bus the whole way, or take the train to the Arrochar & Tarbet station, and bus the rest of the way.

Catch a flight

You can also fly from Glasgow to Islay with Logan Air . The airport is located in Glenegedale , with plenty of hotels and guest houses located a short distance away. 

Tip: Try to sit on the right-hand side of the plane so you can spot the whisky distilleries from the air with their huge black and white lettering!

Getting around Islay

One of the best ways to explore Islay is by taking your car across on the ferry. The crossing is just over two hours long and onboard there are many places to eat and drink. There is plenty to see on the journey, and once there you’ll be glad you have the car to explore the less accessible places on Islay.

I thoroughly enjoyed rolling down the windows and letting the air salted by the ocean blow around me while taking in the vast views of land and sea.

Driving can be problematic if you want to sample a few of the island’s drams, however. If you’d like to explore the whisky distilleries on Islay and not have to worry about driving, I recommend hiring a taxi. There are a number of taxi drivers that even provide half-day or full-day private tours if you would like to spend the day visiting several distilleries.

There are two bus routes you can take to explore Islay. The first bus runs between Bowmore and Portnahaven , while the second bus runs between Port Askaig and Port Ellen . The buses run from Monday to Saturday, 7 am to 6 pm and do not operate on Sundays. Click here for the timetable.

Another fun way to explore is to hire an e-bike from Islay E-Wheels and cycle around the island.

You can also book a whisky tour with a tour operator to take you around. Rabbie’s have a 4-day Islay whisky tour departing from Edinburgh. That way you won’t have to worry about getting to Islay, or being transported around the island.

For more tips, my friend Kay from The Chaotic Scot has put together an essential guide to visiting Islay !

Accommodation in Islay

I stayed at the traditional 19th-century farmhouse and bed and breakfast, Glenmachrie House , which is conveniently located next to the airport. Glenmachrie House is owned by the lovely Rachel and Alastair; they both grew up on Islay, and have a wealth of knowledge about the islands’ hidden gems.

From the moment you arrive at Glenmachrie, you are made to feel welcome. You are greeted with a traditional Scottish afternoon tea, with freshly baked treats made by Rachel. I could have stayed and chatted to Rachel about Islay’s history all day if I didn’t have so many places to explore!

The guesthouse comprises of four comfortable bedrooms and a drawing room with a cosy fireplace. The breakfast room is filled with an array of food, with fresh eggs from the chickens who roam the garden. Let’s put it this way- you won’t go hungry!

The back garden and pond (which was created in the shape of the island) is a tranquil space to ponder life. The Glenegedale River passes through the rear of the property, where it flows to meet the Machrie River. Laggan Bay is to the west beyond a vast expanse of green fields and moorland unfolds into the horizon.

The property is the perfect oasis away from it all, despite it only being four miles north of Port Ellen , and six miles from Bowmore . It’s a great wee place to retreat to after a day of exploring.

A highlight of my stay was watching the sun sink and dip into the sea, bathing the wild orchids that grew in the back garden in a golden glow. It’s moments of stillness such as this that remind me just how special Scotland is.

Price: £130 per night for two sharing; £90 per night for a single Cooked Breakfast included Free parking Free WiFi

Islay Whisky Distilleries

Islay is known as the whisky island for good reason; it is the island that gives its whisky its distinct smokey smell and flavour. Islay is known for its peaty single malt whisky, and there are currently nine working distilleries on Islay, with more to come.

The nine distilleries are:

• Bruichladdich
• Bunnahabhain

To visit and tour all of the whisky distilleries on Islay, you would need at least 3-4 days.

5 day islay itinerary

When you arrive on Islay, what is the first thing you should do once you’ve unpacked your bags? Sample the whisky, of course!

By the time we disembarked the ferry at Port Askaig , I could hear the whisky calling my name.

You will start off this Islay itinerary by visiting the distilleries north of Port Askaig. First, you will visit Bunnahabhain Distillery for a whisky tasting. Bunnahabhain means ‘mouth of the river’ in Gaelic; the distillery stands at the mouth of Margadale Spring, which spills into the Sound of Islay.

This distillery is also positioned perfectly for viewing the Paps of Jura .

Bunnahabhain is known for its unpeated whisky, a rarity on Islay seeing as it’s the peat that gives Islay whisky its distinct smokey flavour. They did have one peated whisky for us to sample, however. It was delicious, but overall I enjoyed their 2007 bourbon barrel whisky.

ISLAY TRAVEL TIP If you’re driving, the whisky distilleries will give you your whisky in a wee bottle to take away. Have a dram once you arrive back at your accommodation as you watch the sun go down over the island!

Your next stop will be Ardnahoe Distillery for a tour and tasting. Ardnahoe is the newest distillery on Islay- so new that it hasn’t released its first batch of whisky yet!

For it to be true Scotch whisky, it must be made from mostly malted barley and aged in oak barrels for three years or more. Their first batch is due to be released soon- in which case I may have to plan a trip back!

Currently, they use other whiskies from the area for their tasting session.

After two distillery visits, you’ll be famished, so I recommend you go back to Port Askaig for dinner at the Port Askaig Hotel .

The hotel pub and restaurant have a fascinating history; at 400 years old, it is the oldest registered pub on the island. You know a building is old when you have to stoop low to avoid knocking your head on the door frame!

The Port Askaig Hotel will delight anyone who loves traditional Scottish decor; it is furnished with tartan carpet, a sandstone fireplace, and a large collection of Islay whiskies. The hotel also employs Gaelic-speaking staff if you want to hear the local language.

They also have incredible seafood. I ordered the lobster, and not only was it sizeable, but it was delectable too! They also have amazing seafood platters if you want to try a little bit of everything. All seafood is freshly caught on or near the island by local fishermen.

Make the most of your time in Islay and get up early for a morning of adventure! After a hearty full Scottish breakfast at Glenmachrie House, you will head to Port Ellen Marina for a wildlife boat tour with Islay Sea Adventures .

Islay locals Gus and his daughter, Bronagh, took us out on this wonderful tour.

Islay is a great island for birdwatching in Scotland ; you have the opportunity to spot many varieties of wildlife, including:

• An abundance of birdlife (including sea eagles if you’re lucky!)

You also have the opportunity to view some of the distilleries from the sea, and have a wee dram! As we passed Ardbeg , Lagavulin , and Laphroaig we raised a toast and listened intently as Gus explained the history of the distilleries. We were then taken to Islay’s Special Area of Conservation, home to one of Britain’s largest common seal colonies, which is only viewable from the sea. 

Our wildlife tour was 2 hours, and I loved every moment. Islay Sea Adventures also offers fishing and foraging tours.

FUN FACT The distilleries release by-products from the distilling process into the ocean to feed the fish! If you lean in close to the water near a distillery, you can actually smell it.

When you make it back to the shore I recommend having lunch in Port Ellen before heading off to another whisky distillery: Bruichladdich Distillery .

Bruichladdich is famous for its whisky, but did you know the distillery also produces an excellent gin? Learn the fascinating story of how they came to produce The Botanist gin, one of the top four gins in the world.

Bruichladdich has their very own forager, James, who hand-forages the island for the 22 botanicals that go into the gin. The recipe is top secret, however, James does carry it around in his shirt pocket!

The gin is made using the exact same recipe, but don’t be surprised if one batch of gin tastes slightly different from the other. The weather has an impact on the botanicals on the island. No matter the very slight difference in taste, The Botanist is quite literally Islay in a bottle!

For dinner, I recommend heading to The Islay Hotel in Port Ellen. The Islay Hotel is an eco-hotel, and they have a beautiful and formal restaurant that looks out across the Port Ellen Marina. If you want to get dressed up to go out for dinner- this is the restaurant you should go to!

You can eat in the restaurant or in their whisky bar, where they serve over 100 malt whiskies.

Their menu features ingredients sourced as close to home as possible: fresh, local seafood, beef, Argyll lamb, and pork. They also have popular staples such as burgers and fish and chips. For a Islay-infused dessert, try the Lagavulin 16 Crème Brulee!

Take day three as a ”choose your own adventure” day. Something I recommend when visiting Islay is to have a slow day; just being on Islay, breathing in the peaty, salty air is a meditative experience that will leave you feeling rejuvenated.

Begin your morning by going for a walk down the Big Strand . At 12 kilometers [7 miles] long, it’s the longest stretch of uninterrupted beach on Islay. It’s conveniently located beside Glenmachrie House too!

If the weather is warm, go wild swimming at the Singing Sands . The beach gets its name from – you guessed it- singing sand! It’s said that if you rub the sole of your shoe over the sand, it makes a singing sound.

The beach is located on the Oa peninsula behind the Carraig Fhada Lighthouse . There is a small parking spot just before the lighthouse.

Carraig Fhada Lighthouse was built in 1832 by the Laird of Islay, Walter Frederick Campbell, in memory of his wife, Lady Ellinor Campbell, who tragically died at 36 years old. It’s the only square-shaped lighthouse in Scotland. It also takes a pretty picture! Port Ellen also inherits its name from Lady Ellinor.

Carraig Fhada Lighthouse and Singing Sands Beach

You can also go for a drive to Portnahaven , a pretty Scottish village on the south-western top of Islay. This is a lovely, relaxing drive. We spotted a field of Highland cows and found an honesty box shop that sold tablet on the side of the road. Take some spare change!

When you reach Portnahaven, walk down to the bay; it is common to see grey seals sunbathing on the rocks and playing in the water. From here, you will also see across to Orsay Island and Eilean Mhic Coinnich (also known as Mackenzie Island). Keep an eye out for the Rhinns of Islay Lighthouse on Orsay.

>> Check out my pal Kay’s post about things to do on Islay for more inspiration!

On day four of my Islay itinerary, you will have another adventurous start to the day- sea kayaking with Kayak Wild Islay .

Kayak Wild Islay offers half-day and full-day custom tours for all levels and abilities. Dave can take you to some of the best viewpoints of the island; he even brings a camera so you can get some photos of your trip so you can relax and be present in the moment, paddling around in Islay’s glassy, crystal clear waters.

After your kayaking adventure, it’s time to exercise your legs by going on a Fat Bike tour of the Three Distilleries Pathway . Kayak Wild Islay also provides Fat Bike tours, so you can jump straight into this activity after your kayak.

You might be thinking what is a Fat Bike? A Fat Bike is an off-road bicycle that has oversized, balloon-like tyres. Despite their size, they are incredibly light, and perfect for riding along the beach or on uneven terrain. They’re actually much easier to ride than normal bikes, and a lot more fun too!

Islay is a cyclist’s dream as it’s very flat. There are also plenty of scenic farm and coastal roads for you to enjoy.

The Three Distilleries Pathway is three miles long and connects the whisky distilleries Laphroaig, Lagavulin, and Ardbeg. On this tour with Dave, you may even spot some otters as he knows where they hang out.

After a day of activities, you’ll no doubt be feeling tired. Treat yourself to a hearty meal at Peatzeria , an Italian restaurant in Bowmore . I highly recommend the Chicken and Haggis pizza!

>> Planning a trip with your family? Read this guide on visiting Islay with kids

On your final day in Islay, you’ll start your morning off in Bowmore with some shopping. There are some fantastically creative locals on the island, and during my visit, I was more than happy to spend my paycheque supporting these small businesses and treating myself at the same time.

Start off at The Celtic House , which is filled with books and all the Scotland-themed artisan gifts you could ask for. Then wander up the road to Spirited Soaps , an adorable shop that sells handmade soaps made with whisky, gin, and rum from Islay and Jura.

I purchased a stack of their bath bombs- they leave my skin feeling super soft and nourished, so make sure you buy some of these too!

Next, make sure you stop by Lynnlabels for a coffee and a cake before driving to Islay House Square in Bridgend .

Established in the 1790s, Islay House Square once housed servants and was a location used for workshops. Today it is a shopping square filled with local businesses selling art, photography, food, and drink.

If you’re anything like me and love filling your home with unique and artisan Scottish gifts, you will love shopping on Islay. Just be sure to leave some space in your suitcase to bring some pieces of Islay home with you!

In the afternoon you will go on your final whisky tour: a beach tasting at Kilchoman distillery . But first, enjoy lunch at the restaurant located on-site at Kilchoman. You can also browse their gift shop, which has lots of awesome merchandise and locally made gifts.

Kilchoman is the only inland whisky distillery on Islay. They complete the entire whisky-making process on the farm, from the barley that is grown in their fields right up to the bottling process. Everything is done on Kilchoman.

The beach tasting is held on Machir Bay , one of the most beautiful beaches on Islay. The beach tasting is the perfect ending to a perfect island adventure. Raise a toast to Islay and make a promise you’ll be back someday.

Have I inspired you to visit Islay? You can watch my entire Islay adventure on my Instagram highlights here .

Related posts

Saturday 24th of June 2023

Yvette, This itinerary is fantastic and is exactly what I needed. I know how much research goes into planning a trip, especially an international trip, so thank you!

Are reservations required to visit and/or tour the distilleries? And if not required, do you recommend making reservations?

Saturday 26th of February 2022

When was this article written? Is it still possible to do these things in 2022?

Yvette Webster

Monday 28th of February 2022

Hi Becky, it was written in June - I also update all my blog posts regularly so they are all up to date. You can certainly do everything I mentioned in this article :)

Scotland’s Isle of Arran Bike Tour

.cls-1{fill:#2c6bb5;} badv_abilitylevel_icons intermediate, daily distance, 40-60 miles, included activities, cycling (bikes included), drumlanrig castle tour, & whisky tasting, included meals, all meals included except one lunch and one dinner.

A wonderful way to vacation. Best way to view the sights. Love the physical exertion.Both guides and other participants are fun and great folks to get to know. Food and beverages are always awesome.

FUN! Challenging rides, beautiful scenery, nice cycling companions, well-trained guides and great food!

Scotland – a land of myths, legends and majestic landscapes! Ride through rolling farmland and deep forest. Stop to visit ancient castles and hear stories of epic battles. Sample the craft beers and delicacies of Dumfries and Galloway. Board a ferry to cross the Firth of Clyde to Scotland’s 7th largest island, the Isle of Arran. Bicycle Arran’s wilderness and discover the rich natural and cultural heritage of this amazing place. Recharge at the island’s own whisky distillery. Ride the Mull of Kintyre and enjoy a final night of celebration before heading back to Glasgow.

COMBINING TOURS : We schedule our United Kingdom tour dates to make longer adventures possible. You can combine our Scotland tour with Ireland or England for the ultimate U.K. cycling experience!

Meet in Glasgow. Begin at a castle, and ride to the birthplace of the bicycle!

– Lunch – Dinner

Ernespie House Hotel

+1,909 ft / -1,996 ft

Meet in Glasgow. Transfer southwards out of the city (about 1.5hrs) to the magnificent Drumlanrig Castle. After a short briefing, we take a tour of the 17th century “pink palace” which is one of the country’s finest examples of Renaissance architecture and makes a fitting place to commence your journey. After lunch, enjoy a virtually traffic-free shakedown ride on the estate roads. Head south through quiet and scenic countryside, passing Keir Mill where the modern-day pedal bicycle was invented in 1839 by local blacksmith Kirkpatrick Macmillian. Stay the next two nights at the Ernespie House Hotel , a historic 18 th century country house.

Explore the countryside of Dumfries and Galloway and a "Sweetheart" of an Abbey.

– Breakfast – Lunch – Dinner

+3,231 ft / -3,231 ft

Dumfries and Galloway is a cycling revelation, sporting over 700 km/450 miles of marked routes on quiet roads through beautiful scenery. Starting just outside the ‘food town’ of Castle Douglas (with its fantastic range of cafes, bakers, butchers and fishmongers), todays’ ride is pure countryside where there are likely to be more sheep than cars. Bicycle onward to the quaint village of New Abbey, where a visit to the 13th-century Sweetheart Abbey is a must. Enjoy a delightful café lunch before the ride back to the hotel.

Watch for red deer and wild goats while you cycle through Galloway Forest Park and along Loch Ken.

Creebridge House Hotel

+2,722 ft / -2,903 ft

Today, cross the region from east to west, from Castle Douglas we turn north heading for Galloway Forest Park. Follow the shores of Loch Ken, then climb out of New Galloway into the heart of the Park. Watch for Red Deer and wild goats on this stretch of road with a brief stop at Murray’s Monument before leading to the final part of the day – a superb cruise on a gentle downhill gradient to the village of Newton Stewart. Stay at Creebridge House Hotel .

After a morning ride to the village of Straiton, hop a ferry and cross the Firth of Clyde to the Isle of Arran.

– Breakfast – Dinner

Auchrannie Resort

+2053 ft / -1745 ft

After an early, hearty Scottish breakfast, ride to the charming village of Straiton, then hop in the van for a shuttle north to reach the small ferry port of Ardrossan. Board the ferry and cross the Firth of Clyde to the fantastic Isle of Arran. Affectionately known as “Scotland in Miniature,” the island is a perfect mix of coast, moorland, and mountains. Want to explore the town or relax at the resort in the afternoon? No problem. We can drop you off to get a massage or other spa treatments at the resort’s ASpa , or go for a swim in one of the hotel’s two indoor pools. Lunch is on your own today, Stay at the Auchrannie Resort for the next 3 nights.

Do the Scotland Mull of Kintyre Whisky Ride. Finish with a dram!

– Breakfast – Lunch

+3,369 ft / -3,401 ft

Today’s ride is a true adventure involving two short ferry crossings and up to 60 miles of amazing roads and views of Arran from a totally different perspective. Bicycle north past Goat Fell, Arran’s highest peak at 874 meters (2,866 ft), to an ancient castle in the village of Lochranza, then take a short ferry ride to the mainland and the Kintyre Peninsula. Ride to lunch near the scenic working fishing village of Carradale, a small, peaceful harbor with stunning views across the Sound of Arran. At the nearby Carradale Point, the Scottish Wildlife Trust has a nature reserve with feral goats, and a good example of a vitrified fort built more than 2000 years ago on a small tidal island off the headland. Our guide, Jeff Barth, has put today’s route in his “Top 10 Rides” he’s ever done! After lunch, cycle back to the ferry enjoying new perspectives of this beautiful land. Enjoy dinner on your own tonight.

Bicycle the Isle of Arran loop, one of the country's classic day rides.

+3408 ft / -3413 ft

The complete loop of the Island offers 56 miles of fantastic riding. With plenty of hills it’s a challenge, but the reward is one of the country’s classic day rides. Head south from Brodick to tackle the loop clockwise, passing by Holy Isle with its Buddhist monastery. Rounding the southern end of the island, views to the Mull of Kintyre open up with Ireland just visible in the distance. Heading up the west coast, the reward in the north is a visit to the Arran distillery in Lochranza. Enjoy a wee tonic of malt whisky before tackling the climb near Glen Sannox. On the other side you’ll find one of the best descents anywhere on a brand-new road surface. Then it’s a mostly flat cruise back to Brodick and a final celebration dinner.

After a relaxing morning - or a very early bike ride - we head back to Glasgow.

– Breakfast

Go for a (optional) very early ride with the guides. Get back in plenty of time to shower and enjoy one more yummy breakfast spread before our ferry back to the “mainland” and our shuttle back to Glasgow.

Availability

Tour guides.

BIKES (Bike models will differ. Call our office or request our Guest Info Packet for models.)

Pedal Assist E-Bike $200 surcharge applies

Ready for your next adventure.

• Our Bicycles
• Online Booking
• Cycle Routes on Islay
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Islay E-Wheels

Islay E- Wheels offers both electric and non-electric bikes for hire. Choose between our easy-entry step-through or Hybrid-style bikes! Electric bikes are for all ages and fitness levels looking for a great day out. All our 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.

Welcome to Islay E-Wheels!

Booking is advisable as we currently run the bike hire from the rear car park of No1 Charlotte St. Hotel . If you are interested in hiring our bicycles for your trip to Islay, please fill in our online booking form; if there are no bikes available on your chosen date, please let us know by email or give us a call, and I’ll put you on the waiting list.

When choosing between standard and premium e-bikes…

• Standard e-bike: smaller motor & battery. Battery range up to 20 miles
• Premium e-bike: Large motor & battery. Battery range up to 60 miles
• Non-electric bike: The Orb Zeppo V8
• More info can be found on Our Bicycles Page

When hiring one of our bikes, you will need:

• To Be responsible for the bike and hire equipment
• Payment via cash, card, or Paypal
• View our Terms of Hire prior to booking

NOTE: Bikes will be held for 30 minutes from the arranged pick-up time. Should you change your mind about reserving an electric bike, please let us know!

All our e-bikes have hidden trackers for our security and your safety.

Trip Advisor Reviews…

Electric Scooters

COMING SOON! Watch this space…

Gift vouchers available on request.

Fantastic Bikes Easy To Use 

Had an absolute blast using these bikes for easy access to the distillery track! Suzi was extremely kind and helpful, She answered any questions we had and made us feel right at home. I cannot recommend this enough to anyone who’s thinking of it- do it!

Date: April 2023

We contacted Gordon late in the day and he helped us out for the next day. This was one of our favourite days of life! Being able to bike from Port Ellen to a couple distilleries was an absolute joy. Such an unexpected treat and adventure for our honeymoon! We had huge smiles on our faces the whole time. Thank you so much for such a great day on the e-bikes!!

Date: October 2022

Great service, fantastic e-bikes, awsome way to explore the Port Ellen Distilleries

One of our best days on Islay was renting e-bikes to cycle to the three Port Ellen distilleries. Was easy to pre-book the bikes before arriving on Islay. We caught a taxi from the Machrie to meet with Gordon in Port Ellen. He had our bikes ready –and helmets and a lock. The distillery path from Port Ellen —is safe and an easy way to travel to and then tour the three distilleries in the region. At the end of the day -we cycled from Port Ellen back to the Machrie–and Gordon picked the bikes up directly from the hotel. Would absolutely recommend.

Date: July 2022

Electric Bike Hire £30 per day

Pick up from port ellen, thule rear-mounted child seats £10 per day, helmets & pannier bag included, for ages 16yrs & over, delivery available for 3 bikes or more, get in touch +44 (0)7497 090 716, [email protected], +44 (0) 7497 090 716, pick up from port ellen or delivery available for 3 bikes +.

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7 Distilleries on the Best Islay Tour with Highland Explorers

I’ve always wanted to do an Isle of Islay tour, and attending the Whisky and Music Festival with Highland Explorer Tours was easily the best option. As I’ve stated before, I don’t drink a lot of alcohol, but I was really happy to sample different whiskies from seven of the nine distilleries on Islay, not to mention all the other attractions, food, and stories on the tour.

As good as the whisky and the island were, the 4-day Islay Whisky and Music Tour with Highland Explorer was so much more.

Table of Contents

Visiting the Isle of Islay from Edinburgh

As a quick geography lesson, the Isle of Islay is one of the southwesternmost islands of Scotland, only about 30 miles from Northern Ireland. In a nutshell, off the west coast of Scotland are the Hebrides, which are divided into the Outer Hebrides and the Inner Hebrides. The Outer Hebrides have the Isle of Lewis and Harris at the top and several more small islands extending to the south. The main island in the Inner Hebrides is the Isle of Skye, but there are plenty of more beautiful islands.

Some examples of prominent islands in the Inner Hebrides are the Isle of Mull, Isle of Iona, Isle of Jura, and Staffa Isle where you can find Fingal’s Cave. These islands can be reached by ferry leaving from Oban. The Isle of Arran is sheltered in a bay with a ferry from Ardrossan, just a bit west of Glasgow. And then there’s the Isle of Islay (pronounced eye-luh ), which you can get to with a ferry from Kennacraig.

It certainly is possible to rent your own car and get out to Islay, but expenses will quickly mount up. The car rental, fuel, ferry costs, accommodations, etc. aren’t cheap these days. As such, a much better option would be to take a bus tour. And I think the best Islay tour is with Highland Explorer.

If you’d like to book your tour , you can use booking code SKYETRAVELS10 to get a 10% discount.

Islay Whisky Distilleries

Currently, there are nine Islay distilleries – ten if you count Port Ellen which closed in 1983 but will re-open later in 2023. There are also two more distilleries scheduled to open in the near future, bringing the total up to twelve.

As part of our Islay Whisky and Music Festival Tour, we visited seven of the nine distilleries. For Fèis Ìle, or Islay Festival, each of the nine distilleries has an open day over nine days. As we were only on the island for three nights and two full days, we only made it to two of the open days (we missed the Bowmore open day by minutes), but we visited another five distilleries to see how they compared.

The only two distilleries we missed were Ardnahoe – Islay’s newest distillery (I don’t think they have any bottles for sale yet) and Caol Ila (pronounced cull-eeluh) – Islay’s largest distillery. After all, there’s only so much you can do in two days.

The first distillery we visited was Ardbeg, at the end of the Three Distilleries Walk. That’s a path from Port Ellen which passes through Laphroig, Lagavulin, and Ardbeg. At the distillery, we received a full tour of the operations and got to sample three different Ardbeg whiskies. Annoyingly, I didn’t get the names of all three, but the last was called Uigeadail, which won best whisky in 2021. All three were quite smooth and a little sweet, which was rather different than others we tried on the tour.

We learned some interesting facts on the tour about how Ardbeg stands out from other distilleries. After all, as of this writing, there are 143 whisky distilleries in Scotland, all trying to do something different, but also working together with blended whiskies. One thing that’s unique about Ardbeg is that it’s owned by Glenmorangie, which in turn is owned by LVMH (Louis Vuitton Moët Hennessy). In other words, the owners of Louis Vuitton also own this distillery.

I was particularly interested in visiting Ardbeg, as one of the stops I go to on the food tour I give in Edinburgh – The Whiski Rooms – is an Ardbeg Embassy. So I finally got a bit of reality on the distillery and its whiskies.

Lagavulin has been around since 1816, and now is part of Diageo. Diageo has 132 sites around the world, including Caol Ila on Islay, Talisker on the Isle of Skye, Johnnie Walker, and, of course, Guinness beer in Ireland.

As the distillation process is basically the same from one distillery to the next, we didn’t do a tour of the facilities. Instead, we went into the beautiful tasting room where and learned about their different expressions. This was the only distillery that didn’t provide a free sample, although a couple guests on the tour purchased a sample of a rare bottle.

This is the southernmost distillery on Islay, at least until the Port Ellen distillery reopens later this year. Laphroaig is a bit different from the other distilleries in the way it smokes peat over the malted barley to create a heavily peated whisky. Oddly, I found many distilleries are a bit secretive about how long they smoke peat over the barley, but Laphroaig says it’s over 17 hours per batch.

Kilchoman (pronounced kil-ho-man ) is the only independent distillery on Islay. We arrived for their open day full of activities. With a bagpipe rock band playing in the background, we toured around the distillery sampling three different bottles, all of which were surprisingly nice. There was a large room with barley on the ground we could practice raking and evening out, and a photo spot with Cask #1 from 2005 when they opened.

My one regret was the regular cafe with their world-famous Cullen skink was closed and they had a separate food stand set up, which ran out of food just before we arrived. But the showroom was also really nice (bigger than any other distillery), and I liked learning how they keep their entire production on Islay, using barley from the nearby farms.

We just missed the Bowmore open day the evening we arrived, but I’m glad we returned later on for a quick visit. The Bowmore 12 turned out to be one of my favorite whiskies on Islay. It was super smooth and had virtually no burn at the back of the throat. All the flavor was at the tip of my tongue, which is my favorite kind of whisky.

The tasting room at Bowmore was also beautiful, with a fantastic view overlooking the bay. Technically every distillery on Islay (except for Kilchoman) overlooks a bay, but the open floor plan, historical information displays about the distillery, and great samples really stood out.

Bruichladdich

Bruichladdich (pronounced  brew-ick-la-dee ) was our first distillery stop on day two after we went to the American Monument. This distillery has four main brands – Bruichladdich, Port Charlotte and Octomore whiskies, and The Botanist gin. Each brand is quite different. Bruichladdich is one of the only non-peated whiskies from Islay, and Octomore is one of the most peated.

The Botanist is an incredible gin (more to my liking than the whisky) with over 30 botanicals added, more than 20 of which are locally foraged on Islay. Vanesa also loved the Octomore 13.4, a whisky only available at the distillery and with a peat level of 180 parts per million. We got a little of both to take home with us, but the £200 bottle was slightly out of our budget.

Bunnahabhain

Our final distillery was Bunnahabhain (pronounced bu-na-ha-vin ) for their open day. This is the northernmost distillery on Islay, located across the straight from the Isle of Jura. There were several activities, most of which had to be purchased. We missed out on the whisky workshop and chose not to go on a boat tour, exploring the distillery instead.

The Bunnahabhain Distillery is unique on Islay in that it isn’t peated (like the one brand at Bruichladdich). The flavor was surprisingly smooth. Unfortunately, after a couple dozen samples in two days, I was getting a little full of whisky. But I would have still loved to do that whisky workshop.

Other Attractions on the Islay Whisky Tour

While our Islay tour was focused on the distilleries, we had several other stops, particularly on the drive out to Islay and then on the way back. Many of the stops were places I’d never seen in all my other trips and tours around Scotland. As I keep saying, there’s just so much to see and do in this country.

Our first stop was the quaint village of Luss on the bonnie banks of Loch Lomond. I’ve passed by on the highway countless times but never actually stopped in the village, which only has a population of about 450. It’s your quintessential Scottish village with beautiful little cottages, an ancient church, a pier for boat trips, and a handful of cafes and a pub for snacks or a meal.

Inveraray feels more like a small town than a village, even though population-wise it’s almost as small as Luss. The difference is the establishments set up for tourists, and the stunning castle built on the outskirts of the town. This was the lunch stop of the tour. We’d heard about the world-famous Loch Fyne oysters served at the pubs, but we chose a traditional Scottish Breakfast for lunch at Brambles of Inveraray instead.

I would have loved to visit the castle, but we were in a rush to catch the ferry as the later departure had been canceled and we had to catch the earlier sailing. At least I had time to get a bit of drone footage.

American Monument

This is quite a unique site on Islay. In 1918, over 500 US servicemen lost their lives when two military vessels sank at sea, one from a German torpedo and the other from a collision with another ship in a thick fog. The monument is like a windmill without sails, looking out to sea. These were just two of the countless ships that sank around the perilous Western Isles of Scotland over the centuries.

After visiting Kilchoman on the second day, we went to the end of the single-track road to Machir Bay, a beautiful beach on the Atlantic Ocean. Everyone else went for the view, but I couldn’t help myself. I stripped down to my small clothes to go for a plunge in the waves. At least I had a towel with me.

Dunadd Fort

After a quick breakfast stop at Lochgilphead on the fourth and final day of our tour, we had a stop at Dunadd Fort. A fort was built at this site 2,000 years ago and was used until the mid-16th century by Gaelic kings. Historic Environment Scotland did a great job setting up information displays across the site, which is open year-round and free to visit.

Nether Largie Standing Stones

These standing stones make Dunadd Fort seem new. They were erected around 5,000 years ago, although the purpose of them is still hotly contested. I loved feeling the millennia of history here. If you’re an Outlander fan (as Vanesa is) or a lover of history, this is a great stop.

This is one of the best towns in western Scotland, and our lunch stop on the last day. There are plenty of places to go for lunch, but I think the best is the Oban Seafood Hut across from the ferry terminal. Some of the freshest seafood and also really good prices (the best combination). Just be prepared for a long line when you go.

If you have more time, you can climb to the top of the hill to see McCaig’s Tower, which looks like a mini Colosseum. My 5-Day Highlands Tour with Haggis Adventures also stopped in Oban and I have a full description of the town in that article.

Our final stop on our tour was in Glencoe, one of the most beautiful valleys in the UK. Nearly every tour passes through Glencoe and for good reason. The scenery is stunning. As usual, we only stopped for a few minutes for some photos. Someday I need to visit there for a few hours and hike up to the top of the trails.

Meals and Accommodations on the Islay Tour

The highlight of our Islay tour was certainly the distilleries, followed by the other attractions and sites, but room and board are also important. We had some great meals on our trip, plus all three nights at the same hotel in Port Ellen on Islay.

No. 1 Charlotte Street

Unlike any other tour I’ve had in Scotland, every night of our tour of Islay was spent at the same hotel – No. 1 Charlotte in Port Ellen. This is where the ferry should have arrived and departed from, but the fleet was minimized on our tour and we had to use Port Askaig at the top of the island instead.

The room was small but very comfortable. We slept like babes in the bed (or maybe that was the whisky). As with many old buildings in Scotland, the thick stone walls made our room completely soundproof, even with a bar downstairs. We had a lovely view of the bay, but the best part was the breakfast in the morning. A nice continental breakfast was laid out for us, and we had a form to fill out for a hot Scottish breakfast as well. In short, we were well fed before our whisky tastings.

On our first night, we went to Bowmore for dinner. We had a dinner booked at the Bowmore Hotel the following night so we searched for another option. That was the same day that Bowmore Distillery had its open day and the village was packed, but we managed to get some takeaway pizzas from Peatzeria to eat out on the pier. The pizzas were surprisingly good – more American style than Italian – and quite large. If you’re looking for some comfort food on Islay, this is your stop.

Bowmore Hotel

The following night, we had a very nice, three-course dinner at the Bowmore Hotel. I had a proper Scottish burger topped with black pudding and caramelized onions. But the highlight of the Bowmore Hotel was the whisky selection. The menu was several dozen pages long! If there’s any rare whisky you’ll looking to try, you’ll probably be able to find it at the Bowmore Hotel.

Bridgend Hotel

Our final meal on Islay was at the Bridgend Hotel, a finalist as Scotland’s Best Country Hotel in 2023. The meal was certainly on par with the award. You can usually get the best seafood in the coastal towns and islands in Scotland, and the fish and chips here were perfect. Yet still no Cullen skink. That’s for the next time I’m at Kilchoman.

Why Highland Explorer Has the Best Islay Tour

Renting a car to get to the Isle of Islay is always an option. It gives you the freedom of going where you want, when you want. On the other hand, having a tour guide makes all the difference, and Rich was incredible as a guide. He was a wealth of information, both historical facts and personal anecdotes, and made our Islay tour so much more fun.

Taking a tour with Highland Explorer is also far more economical. Except in a few circumstances, you will always get a better deal on a tour than paying for everything separately. The car rental, fuel, ferry tickets, accommodations, and some entrance fees really start to add up. Lastly, taking a tour takes the headache out of the planning, and you can just sit back and enjoy the experience.

While my tour was special for Fèis Ìle , the Islay Whisky Festival, Highland Explorer has other Islay tour packages . In 2023, there is a tour coming up on September 15th. The tours include everything I’ve detailed above, barring some change in circumstances if something isn’t available. The Islay tour price is variable, so check the website for the current information.

Further Reading

Looking for another tour of Scotland? Here are some other tours to consider with Haggis Adventures:

• My Amazing Week on the Hebridean Hopper with Haggis Adventures
• The Perfect 5-Day Highlands Tour with Haggis Adventures
• An Honest Review of the Whisky, Warriors and Waterfalls Tour with Haggis Adventures

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Is the Florence Food Tour a Great Value? – An Honest Review

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Getting around

There are two bus routes on Islay running between 7am and 6pm Monday to Saturday, but not on Sunday. They both stick to the main roads on the island. The 450 service runs between the administrative capital Bowmore in the centre of Islay and Portnahaven in the south west. The 451 service runs between Port Askaig in the north-east and Port Elen and Ardbeg in the south. Check the latest timetable to plan your journey.

You can take your own car to Islay via the ferry service and explore the island that way.

Car hire is another option that Cresswell Cars Ltd and Islay Car Hire offer from the terminal building at Islay Airport.    

There's also a good selection of taxi services for tours, transfers and private hire:

Islay is a small island, so cycling is a healthy and environmentally friendly option for getting around. The largely flat terrain makes it feasible fitness-wise, and the low level of traffic ensures that it’s relatively safe. You can also see Islay’s beautiful landscapes and abundant wildlife up close.

In Port Ellen,  Islay Cycles  has bike hire and repairs, and you can hire the latest e-bikes at  Islay E-Wheels and Kayak Wild Islay .

In Bowmore, there's also  Islay Bike Hire , while in Bruichladdich the  Velo Club D'Ardbeg  meet for a ride at Debbie's Mini-Market every Sunday at 10am: newcomers are welcome to join them!

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Home > Directory > Things to Do > Guided Tours

Guided Tours

Ardnahoe Distillery

t: 01496 840 777

e: [email protected]

Bowmore Distillery

t: +44 (0)1496 810 441

e: [email protected]

Bruichladdich Distillery

t: 01496 850190

e: [email protected]

Caol Ila Distillery

t: 01496 302769

e: [email protected]

Fat Bike Tours

t: 07973 725456

e: [email protected]

Islay Encounters

t: 07930054840

e: [email protected]

Islay Natural History Trust Visitor Centre

t: 01496 850288

e: [email protected]

Islay Outdoors

t: 01496 850 643 / 07985 403 537

e: [email protected]

Islay Sea Adventures

t: 01496 300129

e: [email protected]

Islay Whisky Academy

t: 0747 810 9099

e: [email protected]

Jura Boat Tours

t: 07976280195

e: [email protected]

Jura Distillery

t: 01496 820 385

e: [email protected]

Jura Guided

t: 07384607764

e: [email protected]

Jura Island Tours

t: 01496820314 or 07884 024 777

e: [email protected]

Kilchoman Distillery

t: 01496 850 011

Lagavulin Distillery

t: 01496 302749

e: [email protected]

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