OUR TRIP ITINERARY
*This is the planned itinerary, but it may be subject to change due to weather, emergencies, road closures, or other unforeseen circumstances.
Here’s an idea of what you can expect to see and do day-to-day.
ISLAY & JURA WHISKY TRIP
ISLAY & JURA WHISKY Trip
Join me for an unforgettable 6-day / 5-night adventure to the beautiful Scottish islands of Islay and Jura.
Islay, often referred to as Scotland’s whisky island, is famous for its world-class distilleries producing distinctive peaty whiskies beloved worldwide. Just across the water is Jura, a wild and remote island, home to over 5,000 deer that roam freely across its hills and moors.
I’ve designed an itinerary that captures the very best of these islands, showcasing all the highlights you’d want to experience on your first visit. From distillery visits and warehouse tastings, to the finest accommodation and dining experiences, every detail has been hand-chosen by me.
My group trips are designed to feel like a journey with friends, with opportunities for shared experiences as well as time to explore at your own pace.
Please note, this trip is for ages 18+.
Travel Style:
Comfort
From:
£2995 (PP / Sharing)
Group Size:
12-15 People
Fitness Level:
Easy
Start & Finish:
Glasgow
Duration:
6 Days / 5 Nights
Dates:
30th August - 4th September 2025
This trip is SOLD OUT
Join the waiting list to be notified when future trips launch!
01
Day
Journey to Islay
We’ll depart around 8am from Glasgow, travelling through beautiful west coast scenery on our way to Kennacraig. From there, we’ll catch the afternoon Calmac ferry* to Islay.
Once we arrive, we’ll check into the Port Charlotte Hotel, a traditional Scottish hotel, which features one of the island’s best whisky bars. A welcome dinner (included) will be enjoyed together at the hotel.
*Please note: we’ll board the Calmac ferry as foot passengers with our luggage and be met by another private minibus and driver on Islay. This is because only certain vehicle sizes can travel on the Jura ferry and the mainland bus doesn’t fit! Assistance is available to help carry luggage onto the ferry if required.
Meals:
Dinner
02
Day
The Essence of Islay
We’ll start the day with a tour of Kilchoman Distillery, a unique farm distillery and one of the few in Scotland where every stage of the whisky-making process can happen on-site.
For lunch (included), we’ll visit the Islay Oyster Shed, my favourite dining spot on the island, known for its fresh local seafood and stunning views (non-seafood options are also available).
We’ll next make our way to Bunnahabhain, the most spectacularly located distillery on Islay. Here, we’ll step into the exclusive Warehouse 9 for a behind-the-scenes warehouse tasting, sampling whisky straight from the cask.
We’ll return to the hotel for a delicious dinner (included), followed by an evening of traditional Scottish music.
Meals:
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
03
Day
Scotland’s Wild Island
Today, we’ll venture to the Isle of Jura, a wild and rugged island just a short ferry ride from Islay. With a population of only 200 people and over 5,000 deer, Jura offers a sense of isolation and unspoiled beauty.
We’ll begin with a tour of the Jura Whisky Distillery, a cornerstone of the island’s community for generations, to uncover the craft behind its distinctive single malts.
We’ll learn about Jura’s fascinating history and enjoy a packed lunch at a beach where islanders once set sail for new lives in the U.S. during the 19th century.
As we explore further north, we’ll witness the most impressive views of the towering Paps of Jura, before visiting Lussa Gin Distillery, where gin is created by using locally foraged botanicals.
In the late afternoon, we’ll return to Islay and gather for dinner (included) in the evening.
Meals:
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
04
Day
Icons of Islay
Today, we’ll explore some of Islay’s most iconic distilleries! Our morning begins with a tour of Laphroaig, one of the world’s most renowned whisky brands, known for its bold and distinctive flavours. Next, we’ll stop in at Lagavulin to visit the shop, another legendary distillery on Islay’s south coast.
From the pier at Lagavulin, we’ll board a boat with the award-winning Islay Sea Adventures for a scenic journey along the island’s picturesque coastline. While taking in the stunning views, we’ll enjoy a delicious seafood lunch (non-seafood options also available) on board before being dropped off at Ardbeg Distillery for another shop visit.
In the evening, we’ll gather for an enjoyable meal together.
Meals:
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
05
Day
Islay’s Natural Beauty
We’ll kick off our day with a guided walk* on the stunning Oa Peninsula, led by an RSPB ranger.
Along the way, we’ll enjoy breathtaking coastal views and visit the American Monument, a tribute to those who lost their lives when two U.S. ships sank off Islay’s coast during World War I.
Next, we’ll head to Bowmore, where you’ll have free time to explore the charming village and enjoy lunch or a few drams at the Bowmore distillery bar at your leisure.
In the afternoon, we’ll visit Bruichladdich Distillery, known for its innovative approach to whisky-making and its bold, experimental releases including the world’s peatiest whisky!
Here, we’ll enjoy an exclusive private warehouse tasting, sampling some of their unique expressions.
We’ll finish off the day, and our time on Islay, with a lovely farewell dinner.
*The walk is around 2 hours and is optional.
Meals:
Breakfast, Dinner
06
Day
Bonnie, Bonnie Banks of Loch Lomond
We’ll check out of our hotel and catch the ferry back to the mainland, making our way to Loch Lomond, Scotland’s largest loch, for a peaceful stop to enjoy the beautiful surroundings.
Afterwards, we’ll head back to Glasgow, where we’ll conclude our trip and say our goodbyes.
Meals:
Breakfast
What’s included:
5 nights accommodation in a 4-star hotel
All minibus transportation for the trip, starting and finishing in Glasgow
All boat & ferry transfers
5 Breakfasts, 3 Lunches, 5 Dinners
3 whisky distillery tours (Kilchoman, Jura, Laphroaig), 2 warehouse tastings (Bunnahabhain, Bruichladdich)
Activities as stated in the itinerary
Your friendly Scottish host Ruth
What’s not included:
Flights / Transport to Scotland
Airport Transfers
Visas & Travel Insurance
Drinks & Alcohol which are not outlined in the itinerary
Meals which are not outlined in the itinerary
Additional snacks or activities
Souvenirs
Islay & Jura: 30th August - 4th September 2025
This trip is SOLD OUT
Join the waiting list to be notified when future trips launch!
Details
Accommodation
FAQ
How do I book?
Press the book now button, fill in your details and pay the full amount or the deposit.
How does the payment plan work?
You can choose to pay the full amount or opt for the payment plan. With the payment plan, the remaining balances are due on 1st March 2025 and 1st April 2025.
After I book, what happens next?
After you’ve booked, you’ll receive a confirmation e-mail. Around a week before the trip, I’ll create a private WhatsApp group where all participants can chat about packing, flight routes and more.
Do I need travel insurance?
All participants on the group trip are required to have their own travel insurance policy.
Group Numbers
This trip requires a minimum of 12 participants to proceed. Please wait for confirmation from Ruth that the group has reached 12 participants before booking any travel or flights. If the trip doesn't go ahead due to insufficient bookings, you will receive a full refund.
Cancellation & Refund Policy
When you book a spot on the trip, I am required to pay upfront costs to secure arrangements, meaning your deposit is non-refundable in the event of cancellation. If you have paid additional installments or the full balance, these payments are also likely to be non-refundable; however, the exact cancellation charges will be determined upon receipt of your cancellation request.
I understand that unexpected changes can occur, which is why it’s essential for all travellers to have travel insurance. This will help protect you against unforeseen circumstances that may prevent your participation.
Financial Insolvency Protection
I provide full financial protection for my package holidays, by way of a financial failure insurance policy with Evolution Insurance Company Limited.
We’ll be staying at the lovely 4-star Port Charlotte Hotel, right by the beach in the beautiful conservation village of Port Charlotte.
It’s known as one of the best hotels on Islay, with a FANTASTIC whisky bar and has been recommended in both the Michelin Guide and the Good Food Guide!
How physically demanding is the trip?
This trip is accessible to most people in good health. There will be a walk to the American monument on the Oa peninsula as listed on the itinerary but this is optional. A basic level of fitness will help you get the most out of the experiences.
How much luggage can I bring?
The bus has space for each traveller to bring one medium-sized suitcase up to 20 kg (44lb) and one small carry-on bag for personal items (such as a handbag). If you need to bring additional luggage, please let me know in advance.
Can I bring my dog?
Although it would be lovely to welcome dogs, this trip is unfortunately unsuitable for four-legged friends.
Can you cater for dietary requirements?
Most dietary requirements can be catered for. Please share your dietary requirements in the booking form.
How much do I need for non-included meals and alcohol?
For non-included meals, expect to pay in the range of £20 - £30. Alcoholic drinks typically cost around £5 - £10.
What is the Islay weather like in September?
Islay's weather in early September is generally mild and unpredictable, typical of Scotland.
Temperatures usually range from 10°C to 16°C (50°F to 61°F), with cooler mornings and evenings. You can expect a mix of sunshine, cloud, and occasional rain, so layers and waterproofs are essential.
Winds can be brisk, especially along the coast, but there are often calm, pleasant days too. It's a lovely time to visit, with late summer light and the chance of some clear skies for stunning views of the island's landscapes.
What clothes and footwear do I need?
For a trip to Islay & Jura in early September, I recommend packing layers to stay comfortable in the unpredictable weather. While we might experience warm and sunny days, it’s just as likely to be cold and windy at times.
Essential items include t-shirts or shirts, comfortable trousers, warm sweaters, a waterproof jacket, and sturdy shoes for distillery tours and walks. Be sure to also bring a hat, gloves, and scarf for cooler evenings or blustery days. For warehouse tastings, pack warm clothing, as the temperature inside can be quite chilly.
I will send out a suggested packing list prior to the trip.
Are any activities weather dependent?
We should be able to do all activities as planned. However, if there is bad weather or we face ferry cancellations, alternative activities will be arranged.