Sail

The vast majority of visitors to Islay come by ferry. Book online at www.calmac.co.uk or by calling +44 (0)800 066 5000. Booking is essential during holiday periods.

The ferries leave from Kennacraig on the Mull of Kintyre and arrive at either Port Askaig, in the north of Islay, or Port Ellen in the south. The hotel is located just over ten miles from either port.

Kennacraig is 105 miles or 2 hours drive from Glasgow and about 500 miles from London. Flying saves you a lot of time but you miss out on a drive through some of the most spectacular scenery in Scotland, taking in the pristine waters of Loch Lomond, Loch Long and Loch Fyne as well as the bleak beauty of the Rest and be Thankful pass through the Arrochar hills.

A good place to break your trip is at the Loch Fyne Oyster Bar, which is about half-way between Glasgow and Kennacraig.

There is nothing at the ferry port, so if you are ahead of schedule and want a cup of tea or to do some shopping, you should stop at Tarbert, a small fishing port about five miles before Kennacraig.

If using SatNav for the journey from Glasgow, insert “via Inveraray” to ensure you get the correct route.

For detailed travel advice: bookings@lochsidehotel.co.uk