Isle of Islay

The Isle of Islay is a couple of hour ferry ride from Kennacraig. The ferry is very nicely laid out with lots of seating, food and a small bar. Islay is beautiful and green. It is best known for the peater whiskies, like Laphroig, Bowmore, Ardbeg, and Bunnahabhain. Most distilleries have tours, which are required to get your dram of whisky. The tours we liked best were Laphroig and Bowmore for the detail of the process including the smoking of the malt. Keep in mind that most (Bowmore is the exception) distilleries are along one lane roads that wind through the countryside. Several time we thought we missed a turn only to run into the distillery with its large parking lots with plenty of bus spaces. We when in shoulder season, so God knows what it is like during peak season with busses and cars trying to get by one another on one lane roads. Another treat is the Islay Woolen Mill, which is run by Gordon. The tartans for the royal family as well as the Braveheart movie were made there. Gordon is very friendly and will give a tour when asked, but be aware the mill is 3 stories of narrow stairs, however all the woolen hats, scarves, jackets, kilts, etc. are on the first floor. As for food, the pubs and restaurants were great wherever we went, people were friendly, and the rain was soft.