Local Area Information

Also known as the Queen of the Hebrides, Islay is positioned off the coast of Kintyre in the North Sea. 

Home to over 3000 residents, it boasts nine whisky distilleries and two gin distilleries, a brewery, a multitude of wonderful beaches at all corners of the island, wildlife sanctuaries and historic sites. Visitors can also choose from of a wide range of activities including cycling, golf, horse riding, pottery, wildlife tours, birdwatching and rib excursions. And of course, there are the wild goats, geese, eagles, otters and seals to discover as you journey around the island.

Port Charlotte is located on the Rhins areas of Islay. The village is home to the Islay Youth Hostel, Nature Centre (with lots of regular activities for nature-loving visitors), Museum of Islay Life, the Port Charlotte Hotel, Lochindaal Hotel, Por Mor campsite with community play area and the Community Café, and a bike hire outlet. And on a warm evening, you will also find people at the beach and pier, where common activities include crabbing, fishing and, of course, pier jumping in to the (occasionally) chilly waters when the tide allows. 

It's a fabulous place to base your holiday on Islay.