Islay, United Kingdom

Islay: airports, things to do and where to stay

Islay is an island in the Inner Hebrides famous for its peaty whiskies and distilleries, as well as its beaches, migratory birds and open landscapes.

Islay airports

Islay, United Kingdom

Islay airport is about 9 km from central Islay.

Local bus
There are local buses on the island, with limited frequency; check the timetable before you travel.
Taxi
Local taxis; it is best to book ahead. It takes about 10 min to Port Ellen.
CalMac Kennacraig–Islay
CalMac ferries link Kennacraig, on the mainland, with Port Ellen and Port Askaig on Islay.

Islay

A distillery on the south coast near Port Ellen, known for its intensely peaty whisky.

A circular 18th-century church at the top of Bowmore's main street.

A carved Celtic stone cross more than a thousand years old, beside an old chapel in the south-east of the island.

A monument on the cliffs of the Mull of Oa in memory of the American soldiers lost in two shipwrecks in 1918.

Which airport serves Islay?

Islay is served by Islay (ILY).

How far is the airport from central Islay?

Islay airport is about 9 km from central Islay.

How do I get from the airport to central Islay?

From Islay airport you can take Local bus (bus), Taxi, and CalMac Kennacraig–Islay (boat). Pre-booked taxis and private transfers are also available.

What are the must-sees in Islay?

Highlights of Islay include Laphroaig, Bowmore Round Church, Kildalton Cross, and American Monument.

Photo credits