Known as the 'Queen of the Hebrides', Islay is the southernmost
of the Inner Hebridean Islands and is world famous for its single
malt whiskies, spectacular scenery, wildlife and friendly locals.
The island also has a fascinating history, originally inhabited by
early settlers who came here after the last Ice Age in around
7,500BC as fishermen and hunters.
Many tourists come to Islay to sample its exceptional whiskies.
Islay boasts an astounding eight distilleries on the island, and is
home to single malt labels such as Laphroaig, Lagavulin, Caol Ila
and Ardbeg, which all have the strong smokey trait considered to be
characteristic of the Islay malts, while Bunnahabhain and
Bruichladdich are lighter and Bowman and Kilchoman more
medium-bodied.
Whiskies aside, Islay features some notable sightseeing
attractions. The archaeological sites are captivating: the Cultoon
stone circle which dates back to the early Bronze Age and the
Kildalton High Cross, Scotland's last unbroken ringed Celtic cross
which dates back to around the year 800, are worth a visit. More
active visitors can enjoy a round of golf at the Machrie Hotel's
links, a leisurely cycle along the quaint island roads, world-class
fly fishing in Loch Gorm for brown trout, horse-riding on the
deserted beaches, and hill walking to discover the island's
interior. Walk along the eastern shore and take in a beautiful
sunrise as seabirds and gulls swoop above in the crisp morning air
and admire the views across to Jura, which unsurprisingly boasts
its own brand of world-class single malt whisky.
Islay also offers a variety of wildlife such as grey seals,
otters, shags, red deer, peregrine, golden eagles, wildcats and
adders. Bird watching is another main tourist attraction because of
the large flocks of wild geese which visit Islay each winter
(October to May), as well as the variety of rare birds that can be
spotted there, like the corncrake and the chough.