Islay

Islay is one of the largest islands off the coast of Argyll and is famous for its whisky; there are currently seven working distilleries on the island with an eighth that was due to start production in August 2005.

Islay was also the main centre for the Lords of the Isles who had their base at Finlaggan in the northeast of the island.

The main approach is by ferry from Kennacraig, at the northern end of the Kintyre peninsula, to Port Ellen, at the southern side of the island. During the summer, a further ferry runs from Kennacraig to Port Askaig, in the east, which is also the ferry port to Jura, to the northwest of Islay, as well as Colonsay and Oban.

Once in Port Ellen, the main road, the A846, heads east passing the three distilleries already mentioned and then continuing on a narrower road to Kildalton and Ardtalla, the end of that particular road. Heading roughly north from Port Ellen the road leads to Bowmore, beside Loch Indaal, passing Islay’s airport. While this road is relatively straight it is also incredibly bumpy.

In Bowmore is the fourth of the island’s distilleries, while the fifth, at Bruichladdich, can be seen on the opposite side of Loch Indaal! From Bowmore the A846 continues north to Bridgend, where this road then heads northeast, passing Finlaggan, where it ends at Port Askaig. Before reaching the port two roads head north, leading to the distilleries at Bunnahabhainn and Caol Ila.

Alternatively from Bridgend the A847 heads west around Loch Indaal onto the Rhinns of Islay, passing Bruichladdich and then heading southwest to Portnahaven, again the end of the road.

Recommended reading:

• Peat Smoke and Spirit: A Portrait of Islay and Its Whiskies (Andrew Jefford)

More information on Islay can be found at the excellent Islay Info site!

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