Islay

Distilleries.

The main tourist attraction (and source of employment) on Islay are clearly the distilleries, most of which can be visited to see the production process from barley malting (Bowmore only), through the mashing and distilling process, to the final maturation process where the whisky sits in barrels for at least two, and usually over ten, years (it is not necessary to watch this whole process - they have several barrels they prepared earlier). Typically you will get a tour around the distillery followed by a dram of the whisky in the visitors centre. If you have an ounce of good taste you will then run to the shop to buy a whole bottle for later. There are eight distilleries in all. Bowmore is in the centre of Bowmore. Bruicladdich is just outside Port Charlotte. Ardberg, Lagavulin and Laphroaig are all on the main road east from Port Ellen. Caol Ila and Bunnahabhain are on the north coast, down winding single track roads a mile or so from the Bridgeend to Port Askaig road. Finally Jura which is actually on the neighbouring island of Jura.

Just for a change of pace, why not try some beer. The Isle of Islay Brewery is a fine microbrewery. Visit the brewery shop for a couple of bottles to take away, and if you are lucky you might even get a quick tour (it will be quick anyway - it's a very small brewery.

Beaches.

Somewhat suprisingly the coastline of Islay is not covered with great beaches - most of it seems to end in sheer cliffs, or in beaches covered in gravel and quicksand. There are a few however at the extreme west of the island which are quite pleasant for a walk in the winter, or a lie down for the three days of summer