Islay

Islay is not the easiest of the big Western Isles to get to - Kennacraig Ferry Port on the mainland is pretty remote itself compared to Oban or Mallaig, and the ferry ride is longer than the one to Mull, or the bus-ride over the bridge to Skye. It is not as bleak as either of these however - there are no looming mountains and the moorland is less forbidding. There are more people than in Mull in a much smaller area, meaning that you never feel quite as alone, and being off the beaten track means that there are far fewer tourists, and certainly less backpackers than on Skye.

One of the main reasons for visiting Islay of course is whisky. 8 of Scotland's 90 malt whisky disilleries are here. These traditionally produce a uniquely smoky peaty whisky which is much prized all over the world, and it is a popular amongst whisky fans to visit either their favourite disillery or all 8.