Dunrobin Castle
Islay is a rugged island on the West Coast of Scotland that welcomes Whisky pilgrims from around the globe who come to taste its peaty delights.
With 9 working distilleries on the island, it can be tricky to decide which one to visit.
Having taken every distillery tour on Islay, I’ve put together an itinerary of what I consider to be the best Whisky distilleries on this storied island. Plus a
Getting to Islay
Ferry -take the Car and Passenger Ferry from Port of Kennacraig or Oban/Colonsay
Fly from Glasgow Loganair Airport
Getting around
Car is my preferred option as it gives me the freedom to set your own schedule. Glasgow Airport is convenient for car hire.
Private taxis are a luxury if you all want to drink whisky during the distillery tours. I have used Pauls Islay Taxi and can recommend.
Day One
Drive off the early ferry and check into your accommodation in Port Ellen. I would opt for the new Ardberg House Hotel (opening in Autumn 2025) or Leodamais self-catering. Walk along the Three Distilleries pathway, a metalled pavement linking the iconic distilleries of Laphraoig, Lagavulin and Ardbeg. All of the distilleries offer tours - best to book ahead; Ardbeg has a fine cafe at the end. There is a bus service that returns from Ardbeg.
Day Two
Drive Northwards to Bruichladdich Distillery: perhaps the most progressive whisky producer on Islay. Take the distillery tour. Drive to the nearby Machir Bay and walk along the white sands. Drive to the Caol Ila and Bunnahabhain distilleries, located near to each other on an atmospheric stretch of coastline with views over to the Island of Jura. On the way back to Port Ellen, call at Finlaggan, the ‘Seat of the Isles’, a historic site of great significance.
Worth Knowing
Whisky connoisseurs should look out for limited editions, which are only available to buy in person at distilleries.
For non-whisky drinkers: the Bruichladdich Distillery also makes the highly rated Botanist Gin.
Visit Islay during the Fèis Ìle Whisky Festival (the end of May). Book well ahead and be prepared for crowds and festivities.
Extend your trip by taking the (5-minute) ferry crossing over to Jura, home to the Jura whisky distillery and where George Orwell wrote 1984.
SCOTLAND
