The Ultimate Guide to Fèis Ìle, Islay Whisky Festival
Ah, Islay, the whisky island of Scotland. At the end of each May, an island with a population of approximately 3000 grows to 20,000 as people from all over the world attend the Islay Whisky Festival, known as Fèis Ìle.
Nestled on the West Coast of Scotland, this wee, mighty island has 10 distilleries, making it famous amongst whisky enthusiasts worldwide. Islay is known for intense and usually peated single malt whiskies that combine vibrant spirit character with coastal influence.
Here’s your ultimate guide on how to make the most of the world-famous Islay whisky festival, Fèis Ìle.
Fèis Ìle, Islay, @essiexplores
How to get to Islay
This Inner Hebridean island is located in the Southwest of Scotland, and there are a couple of different ways on how to get to Islay.
By plane
Loganair operates daily flights from Glasgow Airport to Islay. The flight takes approximately 40 minutes.
By ferry
If you’re looking for a more budget-friendly option, ferry is a great option. Make the drive to Kennacraig and take a CalMac ferry to Islay from there. If you’re looking to bring a car or a camper van on board, make sure to book your ticket early in advance.
Caledonian Macbrayne Ferry, @essiexplores
Where to stay on Islay
When the island fills with whisky lovers for the Fèis Ìle, finding the right place to stay can make all the difference. Accommodation options range from cosy cottages to scenic campsites, but it’s worth booking early, as spots fill up months in advance.
Campsites and Campervan Spots
If you’re travelling with a campervan, you’re in luck. Islay has several fantastic campsites with stunning coastal views. Charlotte Street Park in Port Ellen offers direct access to a sandy beach that is perfect for morning walks (or recovering from a distillery tasting). Though it’s a wild camping spot, it has public toilets nearby. Port Mor Campsite in Port Charlotte is another favourite, with excellent facilities and easy access to the village’s pubs and the Museum of Islay Life.
Hotels, B&Bs, and Guesthouses
For those who prefer a bed and a full Scottish breakfast, you’ll find charming guesthouses dotted across the island. The Machrie Hotel near Islay Airport offers a touch of luxury with its golf course and spa, while Lochside Hotel in Bowmore puts you right in the heart of the whisky action.
Self-Catering and Cottages
If you’re travelling in a group or planning a longer stay, consider renting a cottage or self-catering lodge. It’s a great way to experience island life at your own pace, and to stock up on local produce (and whisky!) for relaxed evenings in.
Fèis Ìle Info
The Islay Whisky Festival in 2026 is held from Friday, 22 May to Sunday, 31 May. 10 days of the festival have been split between different distilleries, with one to three distilleries hosting each day. You can expect ceilidhs, live music, food stalls, and of course, lots of whisky! Each distillery produces a special festival whisky, which makes this event every whisky enthusiast or collector’s dream!
Whether it’s the whisky or the festive atmosphere that brings you to Islay, there’ll be something for everyone. People will be captivated by the blend of tastings, distillery tours, beaches, seafood, walks, ceilidhs, sunsets and sunrises.
The sense of Fèis Ìle, people united by their love of the island and its whisky, simply has to be experienced to be believed.
Ready to hit the road? Hire your camper van now and start planning your adventure.