The best running trails around Islay

Komoot offers nearly 20 dedicated running routes across Islay. The majority, 15 routes, are rated as moderate, while 3 are considered difficult, providing options for various fitness levels.

Islay offers a diverse range of terrain for runners. You'll find extensive coastlines with spectacular sandy beaches like Kilchoman Beach and Machir Bay, heather moorland, peat bogs, and woodlands, particularly around Bridgend and Ballygrant. The island also features low-lying fertile land and higher moorland, with some routes offering gentle coastal paths and others more challenging hill runs.

Yes, many of Islay's running routes are circular. For example, the Carraig Fhada Lighthouse – Port Ellen Beach loop from Port Ellen is a popular circular option, offering coastal views and a distinctive lighthouse. Another great choice is the Port Ban loop from Port Charlotte, which takes you through scenic coastal areas.

Islay's routes often pass by significant landmarks and natural features. You can run past the iconic Laphroaig Distillery, Ardbeg Distillery, and Kilchoman Distillery. The Carraig Fhada Lighthouse is a distinctive landmark on a popular coastal loop. For dramatic views, the American Monument on the Oa peninsula offers a rugged backdrop.

While many routes are moderate, Islay offers options that can be enjoyed by families or those new to running. Coastal paths and beach runs, such as those around Port Ellen or the wide sands of Loch Gruinart, tend to be flatter and less strenuous. Always check the route's difficulty and elevation profile on komoot before heading out to ensure it matches your family's or your own fitness level.

Many of Islay's trails and coastal paths are suitable for running with dogs, offering plenty of open space. However, it's important to be mindful of livestock, especially during lambing season, and wildlife, particularly in nature reserves like Loch Gruinart RSPB Reserve. Always keep your dog under control, preferably on a lead, and clean up after them to respect the local environment and farming communities.

The running routes in Islay are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.9 stars from over 10 reviews. Runners frequently praise the stunning coastal views, the variety of landscapes from beaches to moorland, and the opportunity to combine their run with visits to famous distilleries or historical landmarks.

Absolutely! The renowned Three Distilleries Pathway from Port Ellen is a fantastic option, linking Laphroaig, Lagavulin, and Ardbeg distilleries with a scenic run along the coast and countryside. While not all routes explicitly list distilleries, many are in close proximity to these iconic sites.

Islay benefits from a mild oceanic climate, making it suitable for running year-round. However, spring and summer (April to September) generally offer the most pleasant weather with longer daylight hours and milder temperatures. Autumn can also be beautiful with changing foliage. Be prepared for changeable weather conditions at any time of year, including rain and wind, especially along the coast.

While much of Islay is low-lying, the island does feature higher moorland and hills, with the highest point being Beinn Bheigeir at 491 meters. Routes like the Bowmore Distillery – Bowmore Round Church loop from Bowmore include moderate elevation gains, offering a more challenging experience. For truly rugged and elevated terrain, the Mull of Oa peninsula provides dramatic coastal cliffs and a wilder interior suitable for challenging runs.

Many popular starting points for running routes in Islay, especially in villages like Port Ellen, Bowmore, and Port Charlotte, offer public parking facilities. For routes in more remote areas or near specific attractions, there are often small car parks or designated roadside parking spots. It's always advisable to check the specific route details on komoot for parking information before you go.

Yes, Islay is a fantastic destination for wildlife enthusiasts. While running, you might encounter seals in areas like Portnahaven and Loch Gruinart, wild goats, and a variety of bird species such as barnacle geese, corncrakes, and choughs, especially around nature reserves like Loch Gruinart RSPB Reserve and The Oa RSPB Reserve. Coastal routes and those near inland lochs are particularly good for spotting local fauna.