I'm currently planning a trip and am not sure I'll be able to do both islands... so far, just from the pictures, I find myself more drawn to Skye, as I'm a sucker for majestic scenery and Portree was one of the reasons I decided to go to Scotland in the first place. But, that said, I've read amazing things about Islay (Sheila, your writings on it have been soooo helpful!) and am rather torn.

Anyhow, I know it's all subjective, but if you had to choose one, which would you choose? I would love to hear your thoughts on which island is your favorite and why.

I'm going to be of NO help what-so-ever

Your questions is sort of like "Yosemite or the Grand Canyon or Yellowstone?" OK - all three are unique and are "musts" so it depends on other considerations like transport, how much time one has, etc.

You absolutely cannot make a wrong choice. If it was my one and only ever trip to Scotland - I'd lean toward Skye. But they are both very special places.

You are aware of my views. I hope you choose wisely!!

We will have a car and would probably have a total of about 4 nights on either island.

By the way, is it possible to do a "day trip" to Islay from Oban? Or is the ferry too much of a pain and not worth it unless you're staying on the island?

It would be a long day. You couldn't do it off the Wednesday ferry, so you'd have to get up early, drive to Kennacraig, spend your day there, get the ferry back to Kennacraig and then drive back to Oban