Three words – whisky, whisky and whisky. The Inner Hebrides is every whisky lover’s dream, boasting not only the “water of life”, but also stunning vistas and Scottish charm. The Isle of Islay was named one of the best places to go in Europe in 2026, praised for its upcoming new opening by Conde Nast Traveller.
As the Southernmost island of the Inner Hebrides, Islay is famous for its high number of distilleries located on the island producing peaty whisky, spanning over 620 square kilometres (240 square miles). Home to 11 distilleries, Islay is one of five whisky-producing regions in the country whose identities are protected by law. What is more, a new whisky is planned to open soon, making it the twelfth on the island!
Conde Nast Traveller commented: “The first distillery opened on Islay in 1779, and nearly 250 years later, the peat-cut island is setting the whisky world alight once more, as though in the process of remaking itself. Openings are rare in the Hebrides, but 2026 brings a raft of exciting spots for lovers of the “water of life”.”
The new Laggan Bay Distilleryis due to open in late 2025 near the Big Strand, the island’s longest beach. Joining the likes of Adberg, Killochman and Bruichladdich distilleries, Laggan Bay Distillery is run by the people behind Edinburgh Gin and Glengoyne, Ian Macleod Distillers and The Islay Boys.
But that’s not all when it comes to new distilleries on Islay – Portintruan near Port Ellen is set to start distilling in 2026 led by Distillery Manager, Georgie Crawford.
Whisky lovers can also stay at the new Ardberg House, boasting twelve luxury bedrooms, its Signature Restaurant and Islay Bar, located near the Ardberg Distillery.
So, the Inner Hebridean Isle of Islay is a whisky lover’s dream, making it one of the best places to go in Europe for 2026 with all the new openings.
You can find the full list of the best places to go in 2026 here.