Islay: 4-Day Whisky Tour from Edinburgh
Islay, Edinburgh
Sample whisky from 6 of Scotland’s finest whisky distilleries. This tour takes you to a Scottish island paradise, with stunning scenery, ancient history and traditional culture.
Islay Whisky Tour from Edinburgh: 4-Day Distillery Experience for Whisky Enthusiasts
This 4-day guided tour from Edinburgh suits whisky lovers looking to explore six of Islay’s world-class distilleries and the island’s natural and cultural sites.
Tour Overview
On day 1, depart Edinburgh and travel west through the south-west Highlands, passing Loch Lomond and the Rest and Be Thankful mountain pass. Stop in Inveraray on Loch Fyne before continuing to Kennacraig Ferry Terminal. Board the ferry to Islay (around 2 hours), with options to relax in the bar or have lunch on board. Arrive on Islay and visit Bunnahabhain distillery for an exclusive tasting before checking into your 3-night accommodation in Bowmore.
Days 2 and 3 offer two full days to explore the island’s beaches, villages, ancient sites, wildlife, and nine remarkable distilleries. Included distillery visits and tastings are:
- Kilchoman Distillery tour
- Warehouse tasting at Bruichladdich
- Exclusive tasting at Bowmore
- Tours and tastings at Lagavulin and Laphroaig
- Guided tasting at Ardbeg
Note that visit schedules may vary due to weather, closures or events, and suitable alternatives will be provided where necessary.
On day 4, take the morning ferry back to Kennacraig and visit Inveraray for lunch and time at the Loch Fyne Whisky shop. Return via Loch Fyne, Loch Long, and the Rest and Be Thankful pass with final stops before heading back to Edinburgh.
What’s Included
- Transportation in a 16-seat Mercedes minibus
- 3 nights bed and breakfast accommodation with ensuite rooms
- Exclusive tasting at Bunnahabhain
- Tour and tasting at Kilchoman (subject to availability)
- Warehouse tasting at Bruichladdich
- Exclusive tasting at Bowmore
- Tasting at Islay Whisky Vault
- Tour and tasting at Lagavulin
- Tasting at Ardbeg
- Tour and tasting at Laphroaig
Excludes
- Lunches and dinners
Important Information
- Participants must be 18 years or older
- Group size limited to 16 participants
- Accommodation is bed and breakfast at Bowmore House or Island Bear
Cancellation Policy
Cancel up to 28 days in advance for a full refund.
Booking Tips
Book in advance to secure your spot, especially during peak seasons. Bring weather-appropriate clothing and comfortable footwear for walking. The best time to visit Islay is between late spring and early autumn for favourable weather and distillery access.
