Islay & Jura Whisky Trails
- Whisky! Visit distilleries including Laphroaig, Ardbeg, Lagavulin, and Bruichladdich
- Stroll along Islay’s white sand beaches and flower-strewn machair
- Look out for the local wildlife; curious seals and soaring eagles
- Sample the best drams in Scotland and learn about the island’s whisky-producing past
- Enjoy relaxed walking on Islay contrasted with the challenging “Paps of Jura”
Gallery
Itinerary
Day 1 Arrive Craighouse on Jura (optional Jura distillery visit) 5 miles / 7.5 kmArrive on Islay by sea or air; take the Calmac ferry (2hrs 10 mins) from Kennacraig on the mainland to Port Askaig/Port Ellen on Islay, or fly (40 mins) from Glasgow to the island’s small airport near Port Ellen. From Islay it’s a scenic 15 minute ferry to Jura and a short coastal bus ride (25 mins) to your accommodation in Craighouse on Jura. If you arrive on Jura with an afternoon to spare and would like to stretch your legs take a gentle walk from your hotel in Craighouse to the Jura whisky water source. Keep a look out for red deer!
Craighouse is the only village on Jura, it has one hotel opposite Jura’s famous distillery and both have views over the Sound of Jura. Enjoy a dram of Jura just kilometres from the source whilst gazing out to sea.
Jura water source walk (optional): 7.5 km

Opposite Jura distillery the hotel is the hub of the island, where locals and visitors alike gather giving the hotel a friendly, community vibe. The rooms have a modern finish, with either ensuite or private bathrooms facilities, and almost all have sea views. The rooms have hairdryers, tea and coffee making facilities and WiFi access, but there are no televisions. There’s a cosy living room area on the ground floor with a television, choice of DVDs and a library where you can relax in the evening.
Begin with a short local bus (or taxi if you prefer) from your hotel to the start of the Paps of Jura loop walk at the Three Arches Bridge. The longest route is challenging but the rewards on a good day certainly outweigh any trials – the views over the Sound of Jura to the mainland are spectacular. The route is strenuous in grade, includes some scree, and is only for experienced hikers. Alternatively, you can choose between a short 6 km route to the loch to admire the view of the Paps from their base, or hike one of the Paps, we recommend a 14.5 km route up and down Beinn an Oir (785 m), the highest of the Paps but with the least strenuous terrain and ascent. Make sure to allow enough time to catch your bus (or taxi) back to Craighouse.
Enjoy a relaxed evening in the Jura Hotel bar, tucking into a well-earned dinner!
Paps of Jura lochan (easy): 6 km
Beinn an Oir (moderate): 14.5 km
Paps of Jura loop (strenuous): 17.5 km

Opposite Jura distillery the hotel is the hub of the island, where locals and visitors alike gather giving the hotel a friendly, community vibe. The rooms have a modern finish, with either ensuite or private bathrooms facilities, and almost all have sea views. The rooms have hairdryers, tea and coffee making facilities and WiFi access, but there are no televisions. There’s a cosy living room area on the ground floor with a television, choice of DVDs and a library where you can relax in the evening.
After a hearty breakfast on Jura make your way to Port Charlotte. From where it’s a 15 minute bus journey to the charming fishing village of Portnahaven for a short loop walk of the area. Enjoy walking on quiet country roads and coastal paths with views of the Isle of Orsay, and it’s Stevenson family-built lighthouse. The village harbour is a popular spot for resting seals and elusive otters are occasionally spotted here too. Later visit Bruichladdich distillery nestled in a coastal village just north of Port Charlotte where you can choose from a variety of whisky tours or a specialist gin tour.

This hotel is located in a charming, beach-side location in the conservation village of Port Charlotte. All rooms are beautifully appointed with en-suite bathrooms with complimentary toiletries and fluffy white towels All rooms are centrally heated with direct dial telephone, flat screen colour TV and complimentary wireless internet connection. Their chef’s source quality local produce using seasonal ingredients to create a varied menu which changes regularly.

The Lochindaal Hotel is one of Islay’s most traditional hotels. It is a family run establishment, having been in the MacLellan family for well over 100 years. Rooms are equipped with tea & coffee making facilities, flat screen tv, hairdryer, free WIFI and guest controlled heating.

A luxurious B&B on the road into Bruichladdich village with wonderful sea views over Loch Indaal. There are just 3 rooms, 2 are ensuite and the other has a private bathroom, making this a relaxing base from where to explore this charming side of Islay. Fiona is an attentive host and will look after you during your stay.
Today you have a choice of walks with return taxi transfers from Port Charlotte to either the RSPB Bird & Nature reserve at Loch Gruinart or to the island’s remote west coast to visit Kilchoman distillery—simply let the driver know where you’d like to go on the day.
Loch Gruinart to Ardnave Point: 17 km
After spending some time at RSPB Loch Gruinart’s information centre walk along the sea loch on scenic country roads to Ardnave Point where the route takes a small loop around the headland on sandy paths with coastal views throughout. Keep an eye out for the distinctive hen harrier, corncrake, and lapwing.
Kilchoman to Saligo Bay: 13 km
Alternatively, take the transfer to Kilchoman distillery on Islay’s wilder west. Walk quiet country roads and tracks to take in two of Islay’s finest beaches—Machir and Saligo. Combine your walk with a tour of the distillery—we recommend the premium tour—before returning to the comfort of your accommodation in Port Charlotte.

This hotel is located in a charming, beach-side location in the conservation village of Port Charlotte. All rooms are beautifully appointed with en-suite bathrooms with complimentary toiletries and fluffy white towels All rooms are centrally heated with direct dial telephone, flat screen colour TV and complimentary wireless internet connection. Their chef’s source quality local produce using seasonal ingredients to create a varied menu which changes regularly.

The Lochindaal Hotel is one of Islay’s most traditional hotels. It is a family run establishment, having been in the MacLellan family for well over 100 years. Rooms are equipped with tea & coffee making facilities, flat screen tv, hairdryer, free WIFI and guest controlled heating.

A luxurious B&B on the road into Bruichladdich village with wonderful sea views over Loch Indaal. There are just 3 rooms, 2 are ensuite and the other has a private bathroom, making this a relaxing base from where to explore this charming side of Islay. Fiona is an attentive host and will look after you during your stay.
Catch a morning bus (25 mins) from Port Charlotte to Bowmore—the island’s “capital”—before following the coast south to Laggan Point on coastal paths, tracks and country roads. On a good day you’ll be able to see Bruichladdich distillery on the opposite side of Loch Indaal, and get wonderful views of the 8 km long white sand beach at Machrie Bay. Round off the day with a visit to harbourside Bowmore distillery.

Situated on Shore Street, Bowmore, The Bruce offers newly refurbished accommodation with outstanding sea views across the harbour and Lochindaal. Only a few minutes walk to Main Street where you will find many local shops and amenities including Bowmore Distillery, MacTaggart Leisure Centre, and the famous Round Church. All rooms are equipped with TV, hair-dryer, tea & coffee facilies, and free WiFi.
This is a family run guest house, ideally situated in Bowmore nice and central to explore Islay and all it has to offer. The guest rooms are fully en-suite and have all the amenities you require.
Begin the day with a short bus journey (25 mins) from Bowmore to Port Ellen. Now that you’re in Port Ellen you can take a walk around the bay to the unique 1930s Carraig Fhada lighthouse, and look forward to visiting three of the most famous distilleries on Islay; Laphroaig, Lagavulin and Ardbeg. We recommend booking the optional premium half day tour of Laphroaig—it promises to be a highlight of the trip!

Once Port Ellen’s old doctor’s surgery and with a wealth of local history, the Askernish B&B is a place known for its highly accessible position. Guest rooms are simply furnished and have all the amenities you require for a lovely overnight stay.

Set in the beautiful scenery of Port Ellen in the 'Queen of the Hebrides' Islay. Overlooking Kilnaughton Bay and with views of Mull of Oa, this traditional white-fronted hotel is a 2-minute walk from the Port Ellen Ferry Terminal. Rooms are simply furnished and have all the amenities you require.

Owned and run by Roland and Kathleen and their friendly team the Islay Hotel has 13 en suite rooms, and as you would expect, a well-stocked whisky bar. There are 100 whiskies stocked at the bar, which is crafted from Burmese Teak – from the floor of the old London Stock Exchange. The bedrooms are individually designed with a king or super-king bed, and luxury en suite facilities.
The walk from Port Ellen along the coast connecting Laphroaig, Lagavulin and Ardbeg distilleries is a relaxed and scenic way to end your stay on Islay and gives you the chance to visit Lagavulin and Ardbeg distilleries if you haven’t already. The walk can be halved by taking the bus from Ardbeg back to Port Ellen if you have a dram too many and lose track of time en route.

Once Port Ellen’s old doctor’s surgery and with a wealth of local history, the Askernish B&B is a place known for its highly accessible position. Guest rooms are simply furnished and have all the amenities you require for a lovely overnight stay.

Set in the beautiful scenery of Port Ellen in the 'Queen of the Hebrides' Islay. Overlooking Kilnaughton Bay and with views of Mull of Oa, this traditional white-fronted hotel is a 2-minute walk from the Port Ellen Ferry Terminal. Rooms are simply furnished and have all the amenities you require.

This hotel is located in a charming, beach-side location in the conservation village of Port Charlotte. All rooms are beautifully appointed with en-suite bathrooms with complimentary toiletries and fluffy white towels All rooms are centrally heated with direct dial telephone, flat screen colour TV and complimentary wireless internet connection. Their chef’s source quality local produce using seasonal ingredients to create a varied menu which changes regularly.
Depart Islay for the mainland via air or sea. The airport is just a 10 min drive from Port Ellen with Loganair flights to Glasgow. Alternatively, return to Kennacraig on the mainland via Calmac ferry from Port Ellen or Port Askaig.
Other Information
Is it for me?A relaxed self-guided walking holiday ideal for those wishing to sample Scotland’s world renowned liquid gold—whisky—while taking in the best of all Islay and Jura have to offer. The walks are optional, and allow plenty of time each day for distillery visits and whisky tastings. The routes range from 7-17 km on quiet country roads, tracks, and paths. Explore Islay’s lush south, the rugged coastline of Loch Indaal and the remote beaches of the west all contrasted with the rugged hills of Jura.
Slower Adventures | Where walking and cycling meet easy-going exploring, our Slower Adventures are the perfect combination. Most days are filled with picturesque journeys with some free time to dive into the destination and experience the people, local food and culture as you go.
Multi Centre Walking | With a mix of loop and point-to-point walks stay 2 or 3 nights in one place which offers the chance to slow down and really explore a destination.
Solo Travellers
As a guide, we would suggest that the minimum age of traveler this tour would be suitable for is: 12 Years
This route is largely not waymarked and much of it is on quiet country roads along with tracks and paths. The walks are graded easy to moderate as they are not strenuous and although there may be some uphill and steeper sections, these are not particularly challenging.
We specifically choose our accommodations to ensure that you enjoy every minute of your stay. All offer a warm welcome to walkers, great hospitality and delicious local food.
During the high season, you might be booked into alternative accommodations which are not listed in the description. Any alternative accommodation will be of the same or better standard as those described.
Solo Walkers & Single Rooms
This independent walking holiday is available to solo walkers. If you require single rooms in your party we will of course try to accommodate your request, subject to availability. Please note that singles may not be of the same standard or size as twins/doubles.
Meals
A hearty breakfast is included each morning. Lunch and dinner are not included so you are free to choose from the available options. Most of your accommodations will more than happy to provide a packed lunch on request and this can be booked on arrival. Alternatively, your route notes include details of local shops and convenient lunch stops on the way. Dinner is available either at your accommodation or nearby pubs and restaurants.
With our route notes and GPX tracks provided on the Macs Adventure smartphone app, you should have no problem following the route each day.
- Overnights in hand-picked accommodation (B&B's, hotels and guest houses)
- Breakfasts
- Baggage transfer
- Taxi transfers (as per itinerary)
- Detailed trip documents, GPS tracks, maps and route notes on the Macs Adventure smartphone app
- 24/7 Emergency telephone support from our office
- Travel insurance (required)
- Transport to the start or from the finish of the walk
- Taxi transfers or public ferry and bus transport
- Distillery tours
- Lunches, dinners, snacks & drinks
- Personal equipment
- Additional nights before or after the trip
- Return Calmac ferry from Kennacraig to Islay
This walking holiday is best enjoyed between early April and mid-October. Islay is very popular during the summer months, and the last week in May during the annual Whisky Festival, so we advise booking as far in advance as you can. Due to public transport restrictions on the islands at the weekend, it’s best to begin your trip from Monday—Thursday. However, if this isn’t possible just call the office and speak to our Destination & Adventure Specialists who can help by arranging taxi transfers.
Scotland enjoys a temperate climate, meaning it's relatively mild all year, except in winter when temperatures occasionally dip below 0 degrees Celsius for short periods. The Scottish Islands are renowned for variable weather so you should be prepared for everything; from 'dreich' days (a Scottish word for drizzly days that are a bit bleak) to days with beautiful blue skies and warmer weather. Whatever the weather it tends to be breezy so spare layers in your day-pack is always recommended.
From the end of April to October average daily temperatures vary from 9-15 degrees Celsius. Monthly rainfall varies from 10-16 mm per month on average. Generally, May-July are the driest and mildest months, but walking later in the year from Sep-Oct is pleasant in cooler temperatures and with great autumnal scenery as the leaves begin to change colour.
To arrive by ferry make your way to Kennacraig on Scotland’s mainland, there are daily Citylink buses from Buchanan Bus Station, Glasgow (3hr 20 mins) that will take you from Glasgow to Kennacraig—on the 926 bus headed onto Campbeltown. From Kennacraig take the Calmac ferry to either Port Askaig or Port Ellen on Islay. The Kennacraig ferry terminal has public toilets, a ticket office and waiting room.
If you’re coming from further afield you might prefer to fly to Islay directly from Glasgow airport with Loganair. The airport is just a 10 minute bus ride from Port Ellen or 35 minutes by bus to Port Askaig.
It’s s also possible to make this trip a drive & hike by using your own car if you are coming from the UK. Most of the distilleries are able to give the designated driver their drams in miniature bottles to go. Please speak to a Destination & Adventure Specialist to find out more.
Please follow the above directions in reverse for your journey home.
No separate bag transfers are needed on this itinerary, please bring your bags with as you use the local bus service to transfer around this wonderfully slow-paced island. You'll be able to leave your bags at your hotel reception on arrival or at your B&B by prior arrangment so you can enjoy the rest of the day unburdened by your luggage.
The distances and ascent/descents are approximations of the recommended routes. Please be prepared by packing all necessary items, for example, proper rain gear (jacket and pants), sun hat, and sunscreen. Your information pack has a detailed equipment list which includes standard walking gear such as good walking boots or shoes, warm and waterproof clothes for the cooler months and lightweight clothing for summer, and a day pack.
Excursions & Distillery Tours
Please note that due to the current covid-19 pandemic most distilleries have been affected in some way; some are closed to the public entirely and others have cut back on tours, and guided tour capacity. As these changes are fluid and may change weekly please check the websites of the distilleries you wish to visit to avoid disappointment. If guided tours are still possible make sure to book in advance as tour capacity may be reduced.
The trip is designed to help you make the most of your time on Islay and your proximity to it’s world-renowned distilleries. As such all the walks are optional and most should take around half a day, ensuring you have plenty of time to visit the distilleries. Please note that the distilleries all have varying opening hours, and some only run tours on specific days and at pre-arranged times. Most of these tours should be pre-booked either online or by phone directly with the distilleries. We provide information on the tours offered and when they run in the pre-departure information pack. Additionally, you can find live tour availability on many of the distillery websites.
There are so many whisky tour and tasting options to choose from that we have excluded these so you are free to choose your preferred tour and tasting options at each distillery. The cost for a basic distillery tour and sample dram or two tends to be around £10 per person. If you would like to try something special we recommend the Laphroiag Water to Whisky premium tour. This includes a tour of the distillery, picnic at the water source, along with a chance to try peat cutting for yourself on Laphroaig’s nearby peat source, followed by a cask tasting and bottling all accompanied by your knowledgeable Laphroaig guide. The tour operates 7 days a week from noon lasting 4.5 hours with 7 people maximum per tour. Alternatively, try the premium tour and tasting at Islay’s only farm distillery at Kilchoman. Distinct from the other distilleries on the island Kilchoman is a smaller operation that grows and malts all of their barley onsite. The tour operates 7 days a week from 11am for 2 hours with 12 people maximum per tour.
Please note distillery tour dates may vary outside of the summer months. A basic distillery tour normally takes 1 hour so make sure to plan your distillery visits around any walks you plan on doing to allow yourself plenty of time. Check distillery websites and book well in advance for tours to avoid disappointment on the day.
It is a requirement of booking this tour with Macs Adventure that you have suitable travel insurance which covers you for the activity and emergency evacuation and hospital care.
As all the walks are self-guided you will be responsible for navigation, decision–making and safety during your trip. The walks are graded easy to moderate—they are not strenuous and although there may be some uphill and steeper sections, these are not particularly challenging. If you currently don’t enjoy a good level of walking fitness, regular walking supplemented by cardiovascular exercise for six months before your walk is recommended. A good gym or personal trainer will be able to draw up a personalised training programme.
We suggest you book as soon as your plans are finalised as the region is extremely popular especially between May and September. You will find up to date availability on our website and we will always try and accommodate your plans.
Your information pack has a detailed equipment list which includes standard walking gear such as good walking boots or shoes, warm and waterproof clothes and a day pack.
Although May and September are generally considered the best months for walking in Scotland, Islay tends to receive warmer weather than the rest of the west coast throughout the walking season (April - October) so the choice is yours.
Midges are small biting insects (much like North American gnats) which are prevalent in the summer months. They are particularly bad on still, overcast days but do not bother you if you are moving, the wind is blowing, sun is shining, it’s raining, or you are inside. So as long as you carry repellent for the odd occasion you may need it they shouldn’t have any impact on your experience.
Unfortunately we are unable to accommodate walkers with dogs as many of the accommodation providers we use do not accept pets.
You can use public transport or a local taxis to travel to the next overnight stop. Full details are included in your info pack.
You will be required to do both on this itinerary. On some days you will be required to take your bags with you on public transport between your overnights. You wont need to walk any of the routes with more than your day-pack though. Please check the ‘Included’ section for clarification on this.
-
HikingThe Best Time to go Hiking in ScotlandRead More4 Min Read22 October 2018
-
Biking18 things to know about Robert BurnsRead More2 Min Read25 January 2018
-
HikingGreat Glen Escape - Monster Hunting on FootRead More4 Min Read16 September 2019
-
HikingWhen is the best time to hike the West Highland Way?Read More3 Min Read18 April 2019
-
The Loch Ness Monster: Mystery or MythRead More2 Min Read01 March 2021
-
West Highland WayFrequently asked questions on the West Highland WayRead More6 Min Read28 October 2021
-
West Highland Way10 Top Tips for the West Highland WayRead More2 Min Read30 January 2018
-
West Highland WayBest West Highland Way ItinerariesRead More3 Min Read01 March 2023
-
Biking12 things to know about John MuirRead More1 Min Read21 April 2016
-
How to get rid of midges in Scotland: Best midge repellent and protectionRead More3 Min Read24 June 2014
-
West Highland WayWhat to Pack for the West Highland Way?Read More4 Min Read13 January 2011
-
HikingWest Highland Way: The Best Moments Of 2019Read More1 Min Read24 September 2019
-
TrekkingOne 'Appy' Macs Customer!Read More4 Min Read17 July 2019
-
HikingSee the best of Scotland in a weekRead More2 Min Read27 January 2017
-
Adventure of the Week: Across the Isle of SkyeRead More3 Min Read28 February 2018
-
HikingHighlights of the North Coast 500Read More3 Min Read21 February 2018
-
The Best Hiking in the Outer HebridesRead More2 Min Read27 December 2018
-
Drive & Hike: Route 66 Turns 60 - and other toursRead More2 Min Read23 September 2016
-
Walk of the Week: The Highlands, Isle of Skye & EdinburghRead More1 Min Read11 August 2015
-
Hiking6 Places to Walk in Scotland in the FallRead More2 Min Read16 September 2020
-
West Highland WayA Poetic Review of the West Highland WayRead More1 Min Read14 April 2021
-
HikingScottish Myths and LegendsRead More2 Min Read09 August 2023
-
BikingWhy You Should Bike Washington State’s San Juan IslandsRead More2 Min Read16 August 2018
-
Biking5 Reasons to visit the San Juan IslandsRead More1 Min Read13 March 2018
-
HikingWhere to walk in Southern Europe… for the best weatherRead More2 Min Read26 April 2017
-
Hiking27 fascinating facts about the Maltese islandsRead More2 Min Read21 June 2016
-
HikingSao Miguel: The Green Island of Azores - Europe's Best Kept Secret?Read More3 Min Read26 November 2019
-
HikingThe 5 Best Hiking Tours in ItalyRead More3 Min Read13 May 2019
-
Tips & AdviceBest time to Visit Ireland?Read More2 Min Read09 March 2019
-
Tips & AdviceFive of the Best Hikes in IrelandRead More3 Min Read09 March 2019
-
HikingTips for hiking in Cape Breton, Nova ScotiaRead More1 Min Read17 April 2019
-
Tips & AdviceWhat to Pack for Walking in the CotswoldsRead More3 Min Read08 February 2018
-
Hiking3 reasons to visit NewfoundlandRead More2 Min Read16 April 2019
-
Hiking25 Frequently Asked Questions on the Tour du Mont BlancRead More6 Min Read20 January 2018
-
HikingHow fit do I need to be for the Tour du Mont Blanc?Read More4 Min Read20 January 2018
-
HikingWeather Conditions on the Tour du Mont BlancRead More2 Min Read19 January 2018
-
CaminoCamino Guide Part 2: The Culture of the CaminoRead More1 Min Read10 February 2014
-
HikingTop 5 Hiking Trails in ColoradoRead More1 Min Read18 April 2019
-
CaminoEating and Drinking on the Camino Frances - Sarria to SantiagoRead More3 Min Read11 December 2017
-
Meeting the people behind the scenery - Minna & Classic RoutesRead More2 Min Read01 February 2023
-
BikingThe Best Wineries near Niagara FallsRead More3 Min Read24 April 2019
-
HikingSpoil yourself with food, wine and charming hotels in Dordogne, FranceRead More2 Min Read29 February 2012
-
Quiz: Which French Wine Region is For Me?Read More1 Min Read21 March 2018
Why Macs
The biggest choice
Around since 2003
18,000+ customer reviews
Positive impact
At Macs, we don’t do tour buses, groups, or guides. Instead, we give you the freedom and confidence to have your own self-guided hiking or biking adventure
It's active travel, led by you.
You choose your departure date and who you travel with, we do the rest.
We sort accommodation and luggage transfers and provide your route in an easy-to-use app.
We give you everything you need to travel independently but we're here 24/7 if you need us.
Getting from A to B under your own steam is intensely rewarding. With Macs, you'll see the world, and yourself, differently.