The small UK island with beach that sings and makes its own whisky

The Isle of Islay, located in the Southern Hebrides, Scotland, may only have 3000 permanent residents, but it boasts a rich array of wildlife, eight whisky distilleries, a world-class woollen mill and stunning landscapes.

Despite its location off Scotland's west coast, Islay is surprisingly accessible with daily flights from Glasgow. Alternatively, travellers can take a scenic bus ride through the highlands, from Glasgow to Kennacraig, before catching a ferry to the island.

The island has a long-standing reputation for creativity. Gordon Covell, who operates the Islay Woollen Mill, utilises two Victorian looms to design and manufacture some of the world's finest woven fabrics.

Many of his creations have graced high-fashion runways and Hollywood film sets, including Forest Gump, Braveheart and the Spiderwick Chronicles.

Islay also has a literary connection. George Orwell chose a cottage on the nearby Isle of Jura as his base while writing his renowned novel '1984', reports the Mirror.

The island is particularly known for its peated whisky - a smokey variant produced by drying malted barley over a peat-heated fire. There are currently eight distilleries on Islay, most offering tours and tastings.

Bruichladdich Distillery has deviated slightly from tradition by producing the island's only unpeated single malt and the world's most heavily peated whisky.

Bruichladdich distillery has branched out into gin production, creating the only gin on Islay - The Botanist. This unique spirit is infused with 22 different botanicals, all of which are hand-foraged from the island.

Islay is also a haven for wildlife enthusiasts. Visitors can expect to see a variety of creatures, including basking sharks, dolphins, whales and rare birds.

Wild deer roam freely across the island, and golden eagles can occasionally be seen soaring above. One of the island's many beaches, known as 'Singing Sands', emits a ringing sound when the sand is rubbed under certain conditions.

Thanks to Scotland's wild camping laws, travellers can pitch a tent almost anywhere, provided they follow the Scottish Outdoor Access Code. Despite its rugged landscape, Islay offers an ideal opportunity to connect with nature and escape the urban sprawl of the UK.

Its scenic, hilly terrain makes it a great destination for hiking enthusiasts.

This untouched, off-the-beaten-track island feels like a world away from the hustle and bustle of British towns and cities, offering a tranquil yet activity-packed staycation.