Whisky Walk
Head to Islay and visit three distilleries in three miles, on foot, for the ultimate island whisky experience
ISLAY is famed for its world leading whisky. The island, which is the third largest of the Inner Hebrides, has a total of nine distilleries. The oldest of these, Bowmore, dates back to 1779, while Ardnahoe, the newest, opened in 2018.
If you’re a whisky-lover visiting Islay, then the town of Port Ellen is a must-visit. And situated near the island’s chief port are three distilleries – Laphroaig, Lagavulin and Ardbeg – known as the Kildalton Distilleries. In recent years a pathway has been installed connecting them, creating the ultimate whisky walk.
The Three Distilleries Pathway, as it’s known, is a five-kilometre (three-mile) walk, completely separate from the nearby road, allowing visitors to safely take in beautiful surrounding coastal views, all while thinking of the peaty drams ahead.
As the pathway begins, you’ll pass the stunning Sròn Dubh beach before reaching your first distillery, Laphroaig. Established in 1815, this historic distillery offers both a tour and gift shop, the best place to try their world-famous offerings.
Once you leave Laphroaig, Lagavulin Distillery sits 1km (0.6 miles) away. Another historic distillery, Lagavulin was founded a year after Laphroaig, in 1816. Tours are offered all year round, with the distillery only closing for Christmas and New Year.
The final distillery on the pathway is Ardbeg, which is the perfect finisher to this unique walk. An award-winning whisky, Ardbeg has been named World Whisky of the Year four times in recent years. Alongside the usual tours, Ardbeg is also home to the Old Kiln Cafe, a popular spot for traditional Scottish fare and a great place to rest your legs after a busy day of walking and whisky.