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Top reasons to visit Islay

• Scenic Boat Trips: Enjoy picturesque boat rides that showcase the stunning natural beauty of Islay and its surroundings.
• Cultural Heritage Tours: Discover the rich culture through regular tours highlighting local traditions and historic sites.
• Whisky Distillery Tours: Experience the unique whisky-making process at the famous Islay Distillery.
• Beautiful Beaches: Relax on nearby beaches ideal for sunbathing and swimming, perfect for unwinding.
• Charming Accommodations: Choose from a variety of delightful lodgings, including cosy bed and breakfasts and modern hotels.

Find great hotels near Islay

Islay offers a diverse selection of accommodation options, ranging from charming bed and breakfasts to well-equipped hotels perfect for business or family adventures. Whether you're seeking a cozy hostel, a quaint cottage, or a modern hotel, you'll find a variety of choices to enhance your stay in this beautiful part of KwaZulu-Natal. Enjoy the unique experiences Islay has to offer, tailored for both relaxation and exploration.

• Road Lodge Pietermaritzburg: Road Lodge Pietermaritzburg offers a comfortable and convenient stay with its 3-star rating. Located 22.5km from Islay, this hotel provides a range of dining options including breakfast and dinner service, catering to various tastes. Guests can unwind in their rooms equipped with satellite TV for entertainment. The hotel is situated in a suburban setting, allowing for a relaxed atmosphere while being close to the vibrant local attractions. This property is ideal for those seeking a straightforward and enjoyable lodging experience.
• Ascot Inn: The Ascot Inn, another 3-star rated establishment, is located 24.1km from Islay. This inn is perfect for travellers looking for a homely atmosphere. With a variety of dining options including a buffet breakfast and room service, guests can indulge in local cuisine without leaving the premises. Entertainment options such as billiards and satellite TV provide leisure activities for all ages. The Ascot Inn's welcoming environment makes it a great choice for both families and individuals seeking a delightful stay.
• Wensleydale Guest Lodge: For a more upscale experience, Wensleydale Guest Lodge is a 4-star rated guesthouse situated 24.1km away from Islay. This property is ideal for families and nature lovers, offering a serene setting right in the city centre. With child-friendly amenities including window guards, parents can relax knowing their little ones are safe. The lodge combines a city-themed vacation with nature, making it a unique retreat for those looking to explore both urban and natural attractions. Guests appreciate the attentive service and welcoming atmosphere.

Where to stay in Islay

Islay, located in the heart of KwaZulu-Natal, offers a delightful escape for those seeking adventure and romance. With its charming village atmosphere, visitors can immerse themselves in the island life, explore idyllic holiday cottages, and savour the renowned local whisky. The friendly locals enhance the experience, making it an ideal destination for a memorable getaway. Discover the beauty of Islay and its surrounding regions for a truly enchanting vacation.

• Camperdown: Nestled in the heart of KwaZulu-Natal, Camperdown is a vibrant city that offers a unique blend of outdoor adventure and relaxation. With visitor numbers peaking in April and the winter months, it’s a great destination for those seeking a beach escape, adventure sports, or simply a leisurely stroll along the local shoreline. Popular attractions include a recreation park and shopping centre, making it ideal for family outings. Don't miss the local history museum, which provides insights into the area's rich culture. Whether you're looking to surf or enjoy a picnic by the beach, Camperdown has something for everyone.
• Mid Illovo: Just 17.7km from Islay, Mid Illovo is a family-friendly city that thrives on outdoor entertainment. With its peak travel periods in February and June, you’ll find plenty of activities to keep you engaged, including golf courses and a thrilling water park. This area is perfect for those travelling with children, as it offers numerous parks and recreational spaces. The proximity to the beach adds to the allure, making it easy to enjoy a day in the sun. Mid Illovo is a fantastic base for those looking to explore the best of both land and sea.
• Eston: Located a mere 6.4km from Islay, Eston is a charming village that embraces eco-friendly tourism and outdoor adventures. Ideal for nature lovers, the area boasts a stunning nature reserve and picturesque mountain views. With visitor numbers peaking in March and June, Eston invites you to partake in activities like golfing and theatre performances. The local landscape makes it perfect for hiking and exploring the great outdoors. Experience the tranquillity of this village as you connect with nature and discover the scenic beauty of KwaZulu-Natal.

Things to do near Islay

Islay in Camperdown offers a variety of activities for tourists, including scenic boat trips and nearby beaches perfect for sunbathing or swimming. Regular tours showcase the area's rich culture, while distillery tours provide insight into the local whisky-making process. Don't miss the chance to explore local attractions, which highlight the unique charm and heritage of this beautiful region in KwaZulu-Natal.

Shopping

In Islay, you can enjoy shopping at the Richmond Shopping Centre, which offers a vibrant mix of entertainment and family-friendly options, located 19.3km away. If you're up for a drive, the Shongweni Farmers Market, 29.0km away, provides a delightful selection of local crafts and produce.

Recreation

Richmond Country Club offers a relaxing golf experience surrounded by stunning landscapes, perfect for unwinding. Pietermaritzburg Oval is ideal for sports enthusiasts looking to engage in various activities. For mountain biking and nature exploration, Giba Gorge Mountain Bike Park provides a tranquil environment to reconnect with nature.

Adventure

Experience the thrill of Epic Karting, located 19.3km from Islay, where you can race against friends on exciting tracks. For a splash of fun, head to Splash Water World, 48.3km away, a vibrant waterpark perfect for families seeking entertainment and adventure.

Nightlife

If you're looking for a night out in Islay, consider catching a film at Ster-Kinekor Watercrest, located 33.8km away. This cinema offers a delightful blend of entertainment and romance, making it a perfect spot for a relaxed evening with a touch of glamour.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Islay

To save money on your trip to Islay, consider visiting between October and December when prices are lower, especially on Tuesdays. Avoid Sundays for accommodation due to higher rates. Use Expedia's search tool to filter by budget and eco-friendly options, and sort by price to find the best deals. Combine your hotel, flights, and activities into a package for added savings. Don't forget to check for promotions and book in advance to score great rates on your stay.

• The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay in Islay are October to December, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to March, June and August, where prices are slightly higher.
• The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay in Islay is Tuesday. The most expensive day to stay in Islay is Sunday.
• Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilise Expedia’s search tool to customise your preferences, such as your budget, preferred location, and the type of accommodation you desire. For instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally-friendly hotels that are currently available. To find the best prices and deals, simply sort the price filter from lowest to highest.
• Consider bundling your trip: You can enjoy some savings by combining your Islay hotel reservation with your flights and activities by booking an Expedia package.

Find the best attractions near Islay

Islay, nestled in Camperdown, KwaZulu-Natal, offers a variety of captivating attractions for all types of travellers. Explore the historic prison, serene lakes, and beautiful mosque, while enjoying stunning views of the Isle of Islay. For those seeking a cultural experience, the Islay Distillery is a must-visit, alongside charming seaside accommodations. Whether you're looking for scenic beauty or rich heritage, Islay provides a delightful getaway filled with memorable experiences.

• Richmond Mosque: Experience the serene beauty of Richmond Mosque, a cultural gem located 19.3km from Islay. The mosque showcases stunning architecture and provides insights into the rich Islamic heritage of the region, inviting visitors to appreciate its tranquil atmosphere.
• The Old Prison: Delve into history at The Old Prison, situated 24.1km from Islay. This historical site offers a glimpse into the past, with guided tours that narrate the intriguing stories of its former inmates and the evolution of the justice system.
• Ntshongweni Dam: Embrace the great outdoors at Ntshongweni Dam, located 25.7km from Islay. With its picturesque scenery and serene beach vibes, it's perfect for a romantic picnic or a relaxing day of fishing and walking trails.

Best time to go to Islay

The best time to visit Islay can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature in Islay falls in January, January, February and February. February has average visitor numbers and mostly cloudy weather. The coolest average temperature in Islay falls in July and July. July has average visitor numbers and sunny weather.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Occupancy	Pricing
January	70.3°F (21.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
January	70.3°F (21.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
February	70.3°F (21.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
February	70.3°F (21.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
March	69.1°F (20.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High
March	69.1°F (20.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High
April	64.8°F (18.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
April	64.8°F (18.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
May	62.1°F (16.7°C)	No Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Average
May	62.1°F (16.7°C)	No Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Average
June	58.1°F (14.5°C)	No Rain	Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High
June	58.1°F (14.5°C)	No Rain	Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High
July	57.7°F (14.3°C)	No Rain	Sunny	Average	Average
July	57.7°F (14.3°C)	No Rain	Sunny	Average	Average
August	60.4°F (15.8°C)	No Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Slightly High
August	60.4°F (15.8°C)	No Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Slightly High
September	63.7°F (17.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
September	63.7°F (17.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
October	64.6°F (18.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
October	64.6°F (18.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
November	65.7°F (18.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly Low
November	65.7°F (18.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly Low
December	68.5°F (20.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly High	Slightly Low
December	68.5°F (20.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly High	Slightly Low

The nearest major airports for your trip to Islay

To reach Islay in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa, you can fly into two major airports. Durban's King Shaka International Airport (DUR) is situated 66.0km away, with excellent hotel options like The Oyster Box and Hamptons Guest House, both 12.9km from the airport. Alternatively, Pietermaritzburg Airport (PZB) is closer at 20.9km, featuring accommodations such as ANEW Hotel Hilton Pietermaritzburg, 14.5km away, and Southern SUN Pietermaritzburg, just 3.2km from the airport. Transportation services from these hotels to the respective airports are readily available, ensuring a smooth journey for your visit.