Islay is known as the Queen of the Hebrides, with a terrain that is rugged but perhaps a bit flatter than other islands, making it ideal for walking as well as cycling.

It has always been well known by birdwatchers, as it is the wintering ground for a large population of geese as well as being a regular breeding ground for rare Corncrakes and Chough, but is increasingly becoming popular for walking holidays.

For walkers, Islay has some excellent scenery on offer, with great expanses of beaches like Machir Bay or Loch Gruinart, and many smaller coves around the Rhinns, On the southwest of Islay is the Oa Peninsula, which has coastal cliffs as well as a rugged interior. you will find woodlands around Bridgend and Ballygrant, many small whitewashed hamlets and villages, like Port Charlotte and Port Ellen, and everywhere you go will have superb sea views.

For a selection of over 15 walks on Islay, take a look at the Islay Info web site.