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The Islay Hotel

Rated 9.0 in 378 reviews

Nestled in the charming coastal village of Port Ellen on the picturesque Isle of Islay, The Islay Hotel offers a warm and inviting retreat for travelers seeking a quintessential Scottish experience. Renowned for its hospitality and attention to detail, this boutique hotel beautifully reflects the rustic charm and rich heritage of the island.

The Islay Hotel is ideally situated, providing guests with stunning views of the surrounding landscape, including scenic vistas of the nearby harbor and the rolling hills beyond. Its location is perfect for exploring the island's renowned whisky distilleries, which are conveniently close by, allowing visitors to indulge in guided tours and tastings of some of Scotland's finest single malts.

Inside, the hotel exudes a cozy ambiance, with tastefully decorated interiors that blend traditional Scottish elements with modern comforts. Guests can unwind in well-appointed rooms that offer a peaceful sanctuary after a day of exploration. The hotel also features a welcoming bar and restaurant, where locally sourced ingredients take center stage in a menu that showcases the best of Scottish cuisine.

Visitors to The Islay Hotel often commend the attentive and friendly service offered by the staff, who are eager to provide recommendations for local attractions and activities. Whether embarking on outdoor adventures, delving into the island's history, or simply relaxing with a good book beside the fire, guests at this boutique hotel are sure to enjoy a memorable stay enriched by the unique culture and natural beauty of Islay.

Climate and Weather

January
 6°
 1°
 8°
 1
Sun hours / day
 10
Rain free days
February
 7°
 1°
 8°
 2
Sun hours / day
 11
Rain free days
March
 8°
 2°
 8°
 3
Sun hours / day
 11
Rain free days
April
 10°
 4°
 9°
 6
Sun hours / day
 12
Rain free days
May
 13°
 6°
 10°
 7
Sun hours / day
 15
Rain free days
June
 15°
 9°
 12°
 6
Sun hours / day
 15
Rain free days
July
 17°
 11°
 13°
 5
Sun hours / day
 14
Rain free days
August
 17°
 11°
 14°
 5
Sun hours / day
 12
Rain free days
September
 15°
 9°
 14°
 4
Sun hours / day
 11
Rain free days
October
 12°
 6°
 12°
 2
Sun hours / day
 9
Rain free days
November
 9°
 3°
 10°
 1
Sun hours / day
 10
Rain free days
December
 7°
 2°
 9°
 1
Sun hours / day
 9
Rain free days

What to do in Port Ellen and near The Islay Hotel

Parish of Kildalton and Oa St. John's
Parish of Kildalton and Oa St. John's
Church in Argyll and Bute, Scotland, UK
350m / 390yd
Laphroaig Distillery
Laphroaig Distillery
Whisky distillery on Islay, Argyll and Bute, Scotland, UK
2.2km / 1.4mi
Lagavulin Distillery
Lagavulin Distillery
Scotch whisky distillery in Lagavulin, Islay, Argyll and Bute, Scotland, UK
3.8km / 2.4mi
Dunyvaig Castle
Dunyvaig Castle
Castle in Argyll and Bute, Scotland, UK
4.1km / 2.6mi
Carragh Bhan
Carragh Bhan
Standing stone on Isla, Argyll and Bute, Scotland, UK
4.5km / 2.8mi
Ardbeg Distillery
Ardbeg Distillery
Scotch whisky distillery
5km / 3.1mi
Kildalton Cross
Kildalton Cross
High cross at Kildalton, Islay, Argyll and Bute, Scotland, UK
10.9km / 6.8mi
Kildalton Small Cross
Kildalton Small Cross
Celtic cross at Kildalton, islay, Argyll and Bute, Scotland, UK
10.9km / 6.8mi
Kildalton Old Parish Church
Kildalton Old Parish Church
Ruined church building at Kildalton, Islay, Argyll and Bute, Scotland, UK
10.8km / 6.7mi
Kilarrow Parish Church
Kilarrow Parish Church
Category A listed building in Argyll and Bute, Scotland, UK
15.3km / 9.5mi
Bowmore Distillery
Bowmore Distillery
Whisky distillery on Islay, Argyll and Bute, Scotland, UK
15.5km / 9.7mi
Kilchoman Parish Church
Kilchoman Parish Church
Church in Argyll and Bute, Scotland, UK
17.9km / 11.1mi
John Francis Campbell Monument
John Francis Campbell Monument
Obelisk in Argyll and Bute, Scotland, UK
16.7km / 10.4mi
Bruichladdich Distillery
Bruichladdich Distillery
Whisky distillery on Islay, Argyll and Bute, Scotland, UK
18.7km / 11.6mi
Giant's Grave
Clyde tomb in Argyll and Bute, Scotland, UK
19km / 11.8mi
Uiskentuie
Standing stone on Islay, Argyll and Bute, Scotland, UK
19.4km / 12.1mi
Dun Guardhre
Dun Guardhre
Hillfort in Argyll and Bute, Scotland, UK
19.7km / 12.2mi
Kilmeny Parish Church
Kilmeny Parish Church
Church in Argyll and Bute, Scotland, UK
20.6km / 12.8mi
Portnahaven Church
Portnahaven Church
Church in Argyll and Bute, Scotland, UK
20.9km / 13mi
Cill Chiarain
Cill Chiarain
Church in Argyll and Bute, Scotland, UK
21.8km / 13.6mi
St Oran’s Chapel
Church in Argyll and Bute, Scotland, UK
21km / 13.1mi
Dun Cheapasaidh Mor
Hillfort in Argyll and Bute, Scotland, UK
21.4km / 13.3mi
Claig Castle
Claig Castle
Castle in Argyll and Bute, Scotland, UK
20.4km / 12.7mi
K Foundation Burn a Million Quid
1995 film directed by Alan Goodrick
20.9km / 13mi
Kilchoman Old Parish Church
Kilchoman Old Parish Church
Church in Argyll and Bute, Scotland, UK
23.3km / 14.5mi
Kilchoman Distillery
Kilchoman Distillery
Distillery that produces single malt Scotch whisky on Islay
23.1km / 14.3mi
Loch Gorm Castle
Loch Gorm Castle
Castle in Argyll and Bute, Scotland, UK
24km / 14.9mi
Memorial Cross
Architectural structure in Argyll and Bute, Scotland, UK
24.8km / 15.4mi
Caol Ila Distillery
Caol Ila Distillery
Scotch whisky distillery on Islay, Argyll and Bute, Scotland, United Kingdom
25.5km / 15.8mi
Cill Eileagain
Architectural structure in Argyll and Bute, Scotland, UK
24.5km / 15.2mi
St Cathan's Church
St Cathan's Church
Chapel in Argyll and Bute, Scotland, UK
28km / 17.4mi
Kilnave Chapel
Kilnave Chapel
Church in Argyll and Bute, Scotland, UK
27.4km / 17mi
Kilnave Cross
Kilnave Cross
High cross in Argyll and Bute, Scotland, UK
27.4km / 17mi
Jura Distillery
Jura Distillery
Whisky distillery on Jura, Argyll and Bute, Scotland, UK
27km / 16.8mi
Ardnahoe Distillery
Scotch whisky distillery on Islay, Argyll and Bute, Scotland, UK
27km / 16.8mi
St Fionnlagh's Chapel
Chapel in Argyll and Bute, Scotland, UK
27.7km / 17.2mi
Dun an Trinnse Dun
Architectural structure in Argyll and Bute, Scotland, UK
28.3km / 17.6mi
Gigha and Cara Parish Church
Gigha and Cara Parish Church
Church in Argyll and Bute, Scotland, UK
28.5km / 17.7mi
Bunnahabhain Distillery
Bunnahabhain Distillery
Whisky distillery on Islay, Argyll and Bute, Scotland, UK
28.4km / 17.7mi
Dunan Buidhe Dun
Architectural structure in Argyll and Bute, Scotland, UK
29.1km / 18.1mi
Dunan an t-Seasgain Dun
Hillfort in Argyll and Bute, Scotland, UK
28.9km / 18mi
Dun Chibhich Fort
Hillfort in Argyll and Bute, Scotland, UK
28.4km / 17.7mi

About Port Ellen

Port Ellen, located on the Isle of Islay in Scotland, offers a variety of experiences for visitors. One of the main attractions is the local whisky distilleries, with several renowned establishments nearby, including the Laphroaig and Lagavulin distilleries. A tour of these distilleries provides insight into the whisky-making process and the opportunity to sample some fine spirits.

The natural beauty of the area is another highlight. The surrounding landscapes are characterized by rolling hills, rugged coastlines, and stunning beaches. Walking along the sandy shores of the nearby beaches, such as the popular Machir Bay, allows visitors to appreciate the tranquil environment and observe local wildlife.

For those interested in history and culture, exploring the village itself can be rewarding. The local architecture reflects the island's heritage, and there are small shops and galleries showcasing local crafts. Additionally, nearby historic sites, such as the ruins of the old Port Ellen distillery, provide a glimpse into the region's past.

Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy a variety of activities, including hiking and bird watching. The nearby Oa Peninsula offers trails with breathtaking views and opportunities to see various bird species, including puffins and eagles during the right seasons.

Finally, engaging with the local community can enhance the experience. Attending events or visiting pubs where live music is performed can provide a taste of Islay's culture and hospitality. Port Ellen serves as a peaceful base for exploring the wider Isle of Islay, making it a pleasant destination for those looking to relax and enjoy the island's offerings.




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