Scotland

Islay

The 'Queen of the Hebrides', world-famous for its peated single malt whiskies and rich birdlife.

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Islay

Part of the Scotland islands map and the Inner Hebrides collection.

Names

Scottish Gaelic: Ìle; Irish: Ìle; Welsh: Ìle; Also known as: Ìle

Geography

Lower-lying than its neighbours, with extensive peat moor, sea lochs and beaches. Home to over 100 species of breeding birds.

Geology

Bedrock: Appin Group (Graphitic Pelite, Calcareous Pelite, Calcsilicate-Rock And Psammite), Neoproterozoic–Neoproterozoic. Superficial deposits: Alluvium (Clay (Undifferentiated) And Silt (Undifferentiated) And Sand(Undifferentiated)). Contains British Geological Survey materials © UKRI 2026, licensed under the BGS Open Data Licence (OGL v3.0). Source: BGS DigMapGB-625 Bedrock & Superficial WMS.

History

Seat of the Lordship of the Isles in the medieval period, ruled from Finlaggan. Whisky distilling has shaped its modern economy.

How to reach it

CalMac ferries from Kennacraig to Port Ellen and Port Askaig. Loganair flies into Islay Airport from Glasgow.

Accommodation

Hotels in Bowmore, Port Ellen and Port Charlotte, plus distillery-owned guest houses and cottages.

Nearby and related islands

Sources

Last reviewed: 2026-08-13.