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	Main Town: Bowmore Island Population: 3000 (estimate)
	Southernmost of the Inner Hebrides, Islay is about 40 km (25 miles) long and up to 32 km (20 miles) wide, with the deep indentation of Loch Indaal extending some 17 km (11 miles) inland from the southern shore. Islay occupies an area of approximately 609 sq km (235 sq miles), and is separated from Jura by the narrow Sound of Islay, which is less than 1km (½ mile) wide. Islay is known for the excellence of its freshwater fishing, and the distinctive Islay Malt whisky.
	During the 8th century Vikings invaded the Hebrides, as a result of which Norway ruled the island chain until 1266, when they were transferred to Scottish control. During the next few centuries Scottish chieftains ruled the islands, at which point Islay became the seat of the Lords of the Isles. The royal house of Scotland gradually reduced the influence of the chieftains however, and in 1748 gained full control over the islands.
	The Hebrides as a whole are renowned for their unspoilt, wild beauty, with a rocky and sometimes mountainous terrain that is broken by many bogs, moors, lakes, and valleys, they feature a vast array of wildlife and amazing scenery.
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