Islay

The islands of Islay and Jura formed from schist and Torridon sandstone are separated by the 0.5mi/0.8km wide Sound of Islay (car ferry) and often seem like one island. They can be reached from Oban via the island of Colonsay or, more quickly and more easily, from West Tarbert on the Kintyre peninsula

Islay (pop. 4,000) lies at the southern end of the Inner Hebrides and is characterized by unspoiled scenery, picturesque rocky reefs, bays and sandy beaches. Historic monuments include a number of Celtic crosses and two abandoned castles - Finlaggan Castle the former seat of the "Lord of the Isles" near Port Askaig in the north and Dunyvaig Castle on the coast near Ardbeg in the south. Bathing and angling are popular pursuits with visitors and the Machrie golf course near Port Ellen is used for tournaments.