North to South
Immerse yourself in the heart of Islay with an exclusive experience that captures the island's rich whisky heritage.
Refunds and rescheduling are accepted up to 48h before the tour. No refunds or rescheduling after that time.
Please see our Support page for FAQs and more details.
This premium tour offers unparalleled access to two of Islay's most iconic distilleries, Lagavulin and Caol Ila.
Enjoy hassle-free transportation to and from your accommodation on Islay - relax and take in the breathtaking beauty of Islay as you travel comfortably between distilleries, with two of our foremost whisky experts.
Experience Highlights:
Begin your journey at Caol Ila Distillery, celebrated for its balanced maritime notes and smoky character, you will enjoy a premium cask draw and tasting experience, where you’ll sample five unique cask-strength Caol Ila expressions that are available only at the distillery. Held in our Maturation Warehouse, you’ll enjoy the stories of Caol Ila while your expert guide draws the drams you’ll taste directly from the cask.
Finish your stop at Caol Ila with a visit to our iconic Still House, followed by delicious lunch before heading off to Lagavulin.
After continuing your journey on to Lagavulin Distillery, renowned for its peaty intensity and robust flavours, you will take part in the Distillery Exclusive Tasting; an elevated experience compromising of four distillery exclusive bottlings, and an exquisite single cask sample. To conclude, you will fill a 20cl bottle of the single cask.
Being hosted by two of our knowledgeable brand home guides, you will have unique insights into the distillation process, the history of their respective distilleries, and the distinctive qualities that make our whiskies world-renowned.
What’s Included:
Round-trip transportation from your accommodation
Guided premium tours at both Lagavulin and Caol Ila distilleries.
Lunch allocation of up-to £25PP
Expert hosts from each Visitor Experience
Exclusive whisky tastings
This unique experience is perfect for whisky enthusiasts looking to deepen their appreciation for Islay’s finest spirits. Spaces are limited to ensure a bespoke experience, so book early to secure your spot on this unforgettable journey through Islay’s whisky landscape.
Please note that suitable footwear must be worn with no open toes or heels. Portions of this tour is inaccessible for those who have restricted mobility, due to steep stairs.
For information on accessibility at please see our 'Planning your visit' section below.
Designated pick up and drop off points available. Please e-mail caolila@malts.com to make arrangements.
If you have allergies or dietary requirements, please let us know at least 14 days in advance.
If you have any questions or would like to discuss your visit please get in touch via caolila@malts.com or call us at 01496 302769 and a member of the team will be happy to help.
HOW TO GET THERE
Planning your visit
Address
Caol Ila Distillery, Port Askaig Isle of Islay PA46 7RL, United Kingdom
By Car
Caol Ila Distillery is located just off the A846, approximately one mile from the Port Askaig ferry terminal and around twenty miles from Port Ellen ferry terminal. Limited public transport serves the area, with a bus stop located about a fifteen-minute walk from the distillery.
Taxis operate across the island but should be booked in advance, especially during the busy summer season. On-site parking is available for visitors.
Please note that during winter the distillery may have to close at short notice due to weather conditions. Please check our Google listing for up-to-date information before you visit us.
November – February | Sunday – Thursday | 10:00 – 16:00
March – October | Sunday – Thursday | 10:00 – 17:00 Please note, we are closed on Fridays & Saturdays
Explore the flavours of Caol Ila and discover your perfect serve, whether you’re a whisky dram loyalist, innovative cocktail enthusiast, or aficionado of alcohol-free quenchers.
The bar at Caol Ila is open 10:00 – 16:00 while the distillery is open to visitors. Last orders are at 15:45.
Please note that all under 18s need to be accompanied by an adult.
View Menu Here. Please note that our menu is subject to change.
Sustainability plays an important role at Caol Ila Distillery. The distillery holds a Green Tourism Award and incorporates a range of environmentally conscious practices within its operations. A heat exchange system uses seawater to cool process water, helping reduce energy consumption.
Additional initiatives focus on improving efficiency, reducing waste, and protecting the surrounding environment of the Sound of Islay.
Caol Ila Distillery aims to make its visitor experiences accessible wherever possible. Step-free access is available in key areas of the visitor centre, including retail and tasting spaces, with lift access between floors. Accessible toilets and parking are available on site. Due to the historic structure of parts of the distillery, the production area includes stairs that may limit access for some visitors; however, alternative ways to experience this part of the tour are available. Assistance dogs are welcome in designated areas.
Assistance dogs are welcome in the visitor centre, retail areas, and tasting spaces at Caol Ila Distillery. However, dogs are not permitted within the production areas of the distillery. Visitors travelling with assistance animals should notify staff at the time of booking so appropriate arrangements can be made.
Caol Ila Distillery FAQs
Caol Ila Distillery is located near the village of Port Askaig on the Isle of Islay, Scotland. The distillery sits on the eastern shore of the island, overlooking the Sound of Islay with views across the water to the Isle of Jura.
Yes. Visitors can explore the distillery through guided tours and whisky tasting experiences that showcase the history, production methods, and signature smoky style of Caol Ila whisky.
Advance booking is recommended, particularly during peak travel periods and island whisky festivals, to ensure availability for tours and tastings.
Visitors may be able to access the visitor centre and retail areas without joining a guided tour, depending on availability. Checking in advance is recommended.