The island of Islay is 25 miles (40km) in length and around 20 miles (32km) wide at most. Thanks largely to the Gulf Stream, it has a fairly temperate climate. It is famous for its abundance of wildlife, beautiful scenery and its whisky distilleries. There are many golden sandy beaches, which rarely have more than a couple of people on them at any one time, making them ideal for getting away from it all.

Islay is justly famous for its malt whiskies. There are eight working distilleries on the island, several of which offer guided tours and include a free dram! Those who appreciate the fine taste and variety of the Islay malts will no doubt savour a pilgrimage to the origin of their favourite tipple.

There are many interesting historical and archaeological sites to visit on Islay. Kildalton Church and the famous Kildalton Cross (the best preserved high cross in Scotland) both date from around 800 A.D. Finlaggan, the administrative capital of the Lords of the Isles from the 14th to the 16th century, has a visitor centre which houses a number of archaeological finds and a model of how the site might have looked during its heyday. Also worth a visit are the standing stones at Ballinaby, the stone circle at Coultoon and the large and impressive Iron Age fort at Dun Nosebridge. The Museum of Islay Life at Port Charlotte presents a fascinating insight into the social history of the island.

Islay is a haven for birdwatchers, and has a reputation for attracting unusual birds. The RSPB Scotland Visitor Centre at Loch Gruinart delivers a fascinating glimpse into the birdlife there and has closed circuit television providing close-up coverage of various species of Islay birds with their young.

There are a number of annual festivals which attract many visitors and especially the Islay Festival of Malt and Music, held annually at the end of May, brings many people to the island. Other festivals are the Islay Jazz Festival in September and the Cantilena Festival, both at Easter and in the summer. Most of the island's accommodation tends to be booked a long time in advance for such events. These together with an almost weekly ceilidh and other local events such as sports days, boat races and outdoor musical events make for an entertaining holiday for all.

There are many things to see and do on Islay besides the distilleries, scenery and wildlife. Golf at the Machrie golf links, cycling, fishing and hillwalking are only a few of many possible activities.

There are several local craft businesses - Persabus Pottery, Islay Woollen Mill and Islay Quilters are all worth a visit. In Islay House Square other handcraft businesses can be found, including Islay Ales, the island's only Brewery. Interesting and beautiful places like historic Port Charlotte, Bowmore with its Round Church, Port Ellen and Portnahaven make your stay complete.