From Glasgow to Islay

Islay is such a popular destination for business and tourism these days that you can catch a twenty-five minute flight from Glasgow just about any day of the week. But with space on the tiny plane at a premium, the prices aren't cheap and the schedule is never a sure thing due to the unpredictable weather patterns. Seeing that the drive from Glasgow to the ferry at Kennacraig is absolutely stunning, I would never even think about flying—even if I was strapped for time. Today was the fifth time I'd made the drive to the Kintyre and it was no less thrilling that any of the previous occasions. Andrew's SUV with its large sun roof and expansive windows made for perfect viewing.

Traveling by plane, you would dearly miss the majestic beauty of Loch Fyne and the adjacent town of Inveraray, home to the Duke of Argyll. 

You would also miss stopping for lunch in Tarbert and gazing out onto the many boats in the harbor.

Plus, you'd miss out on the ferry ride. Catching the boat from Kennacraig to Port Askaig is practically a right of passage for serious whisky drinkers! 

Oh, the excitement you feel as Jura approaches and the brooding mountains begin to stir something within your soul.

Then you hit the ground running and you can't wait to make your first distillery appointment! We got a lot done today, but we've still got a lot to do tomorrow. There's a lot of new stuff happening on Islay and today I got my first look at it. You'll have to wait another day unfortunately before I can type it all up.

-David Driscoll