Islays

Islays is a term sometimes used to refer to Islay, the largest island of the Inner Hebrides, off the west coast of Scotland. The island’s official name is Islay, and the plural form Islays is not commonly used in modern geographic references.

Geography and environment

Islay lies off the west coast of Scotland in the Inner Hebrides, opposite the Kintyre peninsula. It covers about 620 square kilometers and features a varied landscape of peat bogs, moorland, rocky shores and sandy coves. Loch Indaal marks part of the western coast, while the Oa peninsula forms a southern coastline and hosts rugged cliffs and coastal heath.

History

Human presence on Islay dates back to the Mesolithic era, with later Norse influence shaping place names and culture. Gaelic traditions persisted, and Islay became part of the historical Lordship of the Isles before joining Scotland in the medieval period. Finlaggan, near Port Askaig, was the seat of the Lords of the Isles and is an important archaeological site.

Economy and culture

Whisky production dominates the island’s economy, with numerous distilleries contributing to Islay’s global reputation for peaty malts. Tourism and agriculture also play roles. Islay hosts the annual Islay Festival of Music and Malt (Fèis Ìle), a major event celebrating whisky and traditional music that attracts visitors from around the world.

Distilleries and products

Notable distilleries include Laphroaig, Lagavulin, Ardbeg, Caol Ila, Bowmore, Bruichladdich, Kilchoman and Bunnahabhain. Islay malts are widely recognised for their phenolic peat smoke and maritime character.

Transport and people

Islay is served by ferries from Kennacraig to Port Ellen and Port Askaig, and by Islay Airport, which offers domestic flights to Glasgow, Edinburgh and Belfast. The island has a population of around 3,000.