Islay - Queen of the Hebrides

The Hebridean Island of Islay known as the ''Queen of the Hebrides'' because of its fertile landscape, lies off the coast of Argyll. The Island has a varied landscape which supports a wide variety of flora and fauna. Deer, otters, wild goats and over 270 species of birds, including the famous over-wintering barnacle geese, are easily found all over Islay.

The beaches of the west coast are washed by the Atlantic surf and there are naturally sculpted cliffs and sandy beaches to be explored. Hill walking is the best way to appreciate Islay's scenery and the Island's bloody history has left tracks in the landscape for amateur archaeologists and historians to explore.

Islay is well known the world over for its malt whisky with 7 working Distilleries distilling the amber nectar. Ardbeg, Bowmore, Bruichladdich, Bunnahabhain, Caol Ila, Lagavulin and Laphroaig are all open for tours. More information can be found on our Whisky page.

"A Gem In the Hebrides"

© Ballygrant Inn & Restaurant 2005 - A Real Taste of Islay - Website designed in-house by Ewan Graham