This set of nine stamps shows Islay Villages against a backdrop of an island map.

Brucihladdich
Bruichladdich is a small village on the “Rhinns” of Islay, two miles north from Port Charlotte. It commands terrific views over Loch Indaal towards Bowmore, and is home to the famous Bruichladdich distillery (one of nine on the island). 

Bridgend
Bridgend is a small village at the head of Loch Indaal, and is the hub of the island’s road network. Nearby are some terrific woodlands, Islay House, the Islay Ales brewery and the Islay Woollen Mill. Bridgend is also home to St Columba’s Church.

Port Askaig
Port Askaig is the ferry port to the north of the island, connecting Islay with not only the Scottish mainland but also the neighbouring island of Jura—and, in the summer, the Isle of Colonsay. The local lifeboat station is also situated at Port Askaig.

Port Charlotte
One of the most charming of Islay’s villages, Port Charlotte was founded in 1828 and named after Lady Charlotte Campbell, the mother of Walter Frederick Campbell. The Port Charlotte Hotel is well-known for supporting the thriving local music scene, while the Museum of Islay Life houses an incredible collection of items relating to island life.

Bowmore
Bowmore is the main village on the island, built around an impressive main street leading towards the Round Church.       Bowmore distillery is the oldest on the island, producing one of the most famous whiskies in the world. Bowmore is also home to the island hospital and a swimming pool.
 
Keills
Keills is situated about two miles south-west of Port Askaig. The name Keills derives from the Gaelic word for church (or chapel) and indeed the ruins of historic Keills Chapel, and its ancient cemetery, can be visited today. The village also provides stunning views towards the Paps of Jura.

Portnahaven
Portnahaven is a picturesque village at the southern tip of the “Rhinns” of Islay. Portnahaven’s church is architecturally significant, being one of the historic Telford Churches dating from the early 19th century. The harbour is one of the best places on the island to observe Grey Seals.

Port Ellen
Port Ellen is the other ferry port, in the south of the island. It is named after Lady Charlotte Campbell, a daughter of the 5th Duke of Argyll. Port Ellen’s most famous landmark is situated across the bay from the ferry terminal—a square lighthouse that has welcomed visitors to the island since 1832.

Laphroaig
Laphraoig is a mile to the east of Port Ellen on the road towards Kildalton (home to the famous Celtic Cross). Laphraoig has achieved worldwide fame for its outstanding malt whisky, which has been produced there for over two centuries.