ABOUT ISLAY

Islay "The Jewel of the Hebrides" lies 15 miles off the west coast of Argyll. It is the southernmost of the Inner Hebrides. The island has a population of around 3,500 and stretches about 21 miles north to south and a similar distance east to west. The two main population centres are Port Ellen and Bowmore.

There are many ruins and monuments which hint at Islay's turbulent history (Islay did not become officially part of Scotland until after 1746 and there were many raids and disputes over it). Amongst the interesting monuments is the 8th Century High Cross at Kildalton. Finlaggan, historic meeting place of the Lord of the Isles, is also of historic importance.

Islay can be reached by ferry from Kennacraig in West Loch Tarbert to either Port Ellen or Port Askaig (this takes approximately two hours) or by a 35 minute flight from Glasgow Airport.