Come on a journey to Islay and discover its hidden gems. From spotting seals and dolphins off the coast to the spots where the locals eat their seafood and its utterly unique whiskies, these are the secrets which make Islay truly inspiring. Here’s a taste of what to expect and don’t forget to look out for the rare Lady Tresses’ orchids.

UNMISSABLE MOMENTS

This year, from 7 - 9 October 2022 the Lagavulin Islay Jazz Festival brought you world-famous musicians, local chefs and the makers and masters themselves, along with some surprise guests. Discover a whole new way to enjoy the classic Islay malt.

EXPLORE THE 2022 JAZZ FESTIVAL

7 INSIDER TIPS FOR YOUR VISIT TO ISLAY

– from Ervin Trykowski, Global Scotch Ambassador, Diageo

01

HEAR THE SINGING SANDS

Rumour goes that if you rub the soles of your shoes along the sands, there will be the sound of singing. Or perhaps you’ll just be singing with joy at the sight of this pristine beach.

02

Eat LIKE THE LOCALS

The waters around Islay deliver some of the best shellfish in Scotland. In the harbour of Port Ellen you’ll find the SeaSalt Bistro with fresh off-the-boat catches.

03

Go for an epic cycle

Did you know you can cycle between the three distilleries along the South East Coast? Breathe in the sea-soaked air that gives Islay whisky its unique flavour and toast the end of the ride with a dram!

04

EXPLORE A RUIN

Truly atmospheric and with incredible views of the Lagavulin distillery, the ancient Dunyvaig Castle is off the beaten track.

05

Go seal spotting

Portnahaven is a pretty village seven miles along the coastal road from Port Charlotte. You might spot seals lounging on the rocks and even dolphins in the bay.

06

DO THE ‘ISLAY WAVE’

It’s a thing! Whenever you pass a local don’t be alarmed if they give you the famous ‘Islay wave’ - even if they’re driving.

07

BE AN ORCHID HUNTER

The location is secret, so you’ll just have to ask the local wildlife experts if you want to see these mesmerising and insta-worthy flowers.

SECRETS OF THE ISLAY WHISKIES

THE FLAVOUR IS IN THE SEA AIR

The landscape in Scotland is often said to shape the flavours of the single malts it produces. Nowhere is this truer than in Islay. The peat, fed on a constant diet of rain and sea spray, is particularly pungent and adds a strong smoky, earthy taste to the liquids. Throw in a touch of salty seaweed, and you have a perfect storm of flavour.

TWO MUST-VISIT DISTILLERIES

Step into a world of flavour with not one, but two, stunning distilleries in Islay. Lagavulin sits between Ardbeg and Laphroaig on the south coast of Islay and is known for its versatile and weighty whiskies packed with seaside smokiness. Its sister distillery, Caol Ila, is located on the north-eastern shores of Islay and produces and wide range of peated and unpeated single malts.

Discover Lagavulin

Discover Caol Ila

Discover an icon in the making

Come to the newly renovated Caol Ila distillery for an immersive whisky experience in one of the most “instagrammable” landscapes in the world of whisky. Soak in magnificent views across the Sound of Islay to the spectacular Paps of Jura, whilst sipping a world-class single malt.

Book a Caol Ila tour

UNEXPECTED VIEWS

How to get to Islay is all part of the experience. Fly into the tiny airport from Glasgow, Oban and Colonsay or come across the wild North sea on the ferries. Take in the unexpected views and have a fresh perspective on your island adventure.

Plan your trip