10.

In September and October the woods are a riot of colours and it's a fantastic place for a stroll. Take a pick from number of routes and find yourself at the Woollen Mill, or at the Bridgend Hotel for something warming!

9.

The westerly clouds scudding across the sky make for a spectacular 'rainbow season' on Islay. The frequently changing light marks the time of the year, and turns the land a multitude of colours. A photographers dream, and a wonder to behold, whether you're inside or out!

8.

With the busier crowds of the Festival and summer months gone, you can afford to take your time around the island. There's a little more time for distillery staff to share their knowledge, and for you to savour what they have to offer!

Booking a warehouse experience or tasting is highly recommended, there's nothing quite like whisky straight from the cask!

7.

Into late autumn and the darkening skies increase your chance of seeing the Aurora Borealis, or Northern Lights, above Islay. Looking north from Bunnahabhain, Saligo Bay and Sanaigmore offer you the best chances - though check on Aurora alert apps before you go!

6.

The heather's distinctive purple bloom comes to life in late summer and early autumn, across the island, often matched with the rich, golden brown of the brackens and grasses as the season progresses.

Whether you're around to see the heather or not, you can always sample the heather infused Isle of Islay gin at any time of the year from their shop in Islay House Square!

5.

There are many great locations on Islay to sit and sample a log fire and soak up the atmosphere. We think there’s nowhere better than the Port Charlotte or Bridgend Hotels for a warm welcome, roaring fire and great company. Or head to the Stag Lounge at the Machrie to overlook the 18th green and the Big Strand waves.

You can always take your adventure further and keep warm with an outdoor dram on a beach fire you built yourself! Islay whisky has never tasted so good!
Just make sure you clear up after yourself and leave everything safe.

4.

Autumn is a great time for wildlife on Islay, and the geese are a spectacular sight on Lochindaal and at the RSPB reserve at Loch Gruinart. Take a walk down to the hides on Loch Gruinart and see what you can see!

With eagles, otters, deer and more too, Islay is a great place for spotting wildlife!

3.

With the drop in temperature, any chance of the midges making an appearance disappears! Islay isn't too bad for midges anyway, but once September comes, even the stillest of days doesn't result in the kind of clouds you don't want to see!

2.

With earlier sunsets, it's easier to head to a good view of the sun as it sets in the west! Saligo Bay, Machir Bay, the Big Strand are some of the best places to watch the sun disappear over the Atlantic.

1.

As autumn falls across the island, the rhythm of life slows down a little. Barley harvests are done, the nights draw in and the famed 'Islay Time' kicks back a notch further.

This is the perfect time to explore the island and unwind, and at Ballitarsin, you've got a perfect spot to view it all - autumn light moving across the landscape; the geese and wildlife passing by; the glorious sunsets, and the dram in your hand!

We hope to welcome you soon.