Islay is an island located off the west coast of Scotland, known for its world-renowned whiskies, picturesque landscapes, and rich history. Despite being a small island, Islay boasts a number of exceptional hotels that offer guests an unforgettable experience. In this article, we will explore the charm and character of Islay hotels, highlighting their unique features, amenities, and attractions.
The Machrie Hotel & Golf Links
The Machrie Hotel & Golf Links is a luxurious hotel located in the heart of Islay. The hotel is surrounded by stunning landscapes, including the Machrie Bay, which is one of the island’s most picturesque spots. The hotel’s interior is modern and stylish, with elegant furnishings and contemporary décor. The rooms are spacious and well-appointed, with views of the golf course or the sea.
The Machrie Hotel & Golf Links is also home to an 18-hole championship golf course, which was redesigned by renowned golf architect, DJ Russell. The course offers a challenging and scenic round of golf, with views of the sea and the surrounding countryside. The hotel also offers a range of outdoor activities, including hiking, cycling, and fishing, making it an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts.
Address: Port Ellen, Isle of Islay, PA42 7AN, Scotland, UK
Laphroaig Distillery Cottages
The Laphroaig Distillery Cottages are a unique accommodation option located on the grounds of the Laphroaig Distillery. The cottages are self-catering, with each cottage featuring a fully equipped kitchen and comfortable living area. The cottages are decorated in a traditional Scottish style, with tartan furnishings and wooden accents, giving them a cosy and inviting atmosphere.
One of the main attractions of staying at the Laphroaig Distillery Cottages is the opportunity to take a tour of the distillery. Guests can learn about the history and production process of Laphroaig whisky, and even create their own personalised bottle to take home. The cottages are also located close to the picturesque village of Port Ellen, which offers a range of restaurants, pubs, and shops.
Address: Near Port Ellen, Isle of Islay, PA42 7DU, Scotland, UK
The Bowmore Hotel
The Bowmore Hotel is located in the heart of Bowmore, the largest town on Islay. The hotel is housed in a historic building, which dates back to the 18th century. The interior of the hotel is elegant and traditional, with antique furnishings and period features. The rooms are spacious and comfortable, with views of the town or the sea.
The Bowmore Hotel is also home to a popular restaurant, which serves locally sourced seafood and traditional Scottish cuisine. The hotel is located close to a number of Islay’s main attractions, including the Bowmore Distillery, which offers tours and tastings of its signature whiskies. The hotel also offers easy access to the beautiful Loch Indaal, which is a popular spot for fishing and birdwatching.
Address: Jamieson Street, Bowmore, Isle of Islay, PA43 7HL, Scotland, UK
Port Charlotte Hotel
The Port Charlotte Hotel is a charming hotel located in the village of Port Charlotte, on the west coast of Islay. The hotel is housed in a historic building, which dates back to the 1820s. The interior of the hotel is traditional and welcoming, with wooden floors and exposed stone walls. The rooms are spacious and comfortable, with views of the village or the sea.
One of the main attractions of the Port Charlotte Hotel is its proximity to some of Islay’s most stunning beaches. Guests can take a short walk to the nearby Machir Bay or Kilchoman Beach, which offer breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean. The hotel also offers a range of outdoor activities, including hiking, cycling, and kayaking, making it an ideal destination for adventure seekers.
Address: Main Street, Port Charlotte, Isle of Islay, PA48 7TU, Scotland, UK
https://www.portcharlottehotel.co.uk/
The Islay Hotel
The Islay Hotel is a luxurious hotel located in the village of Port Ellen, on the southern coast of Islay. The hotel is housed in a historic building, which dates back to the 19th century. The interior of the hotel is modern and stylish, with chic furnishings and contemporary décor. The rooms are spacious and well-appointed, with views of the village or the sea.
The Islay Hotel is also home to a popular restaurant, which serves locally sourced seafood and modern Scottish cuisine. The hotel is located close to a number of Islay’s main attractions, including the Port Ellen Maltings, which is one of the island’s oldest distilleries. The hotel also offers easy access to the nearby Islay Airport, making it an ideal destination for travellers looking to explore the island.
Address: 18 Charlotte Street, Port Ellen, Isle of Islay, PA42 7DF, Scotland, UK
The Port Askaig Hotel
The Port Askaig Hotel is a historic hotel located on the eastern coast of Islay. The hotel is named after the nearby village of Port Askaig, which is a popular spot for fishing and sailing. The interior of the hotel is traditional and cosy, with wooden furnishings and exposed stone walls. The rooms are comfortable and well-appointed, with views of the village or the sea.
One of the main attractions of the Port Askaig Hotel is its proximity to the Islay Ferry Terminal, which offers easy access to the mainland. The hotel is also located close to some of Islay’s most popular distilleries, including Caol Ila and Bunnahabhain, which offer tours and tastings of their signature whiskies. The hotel’s restaurant serves a range of delicious dishes, including locally sourced seafood and traditional Scottish cuisine.
Address: Port Askaig, Isle of Islay, PA46 7RB, Scotland, UK
The Bridgend Hotel
The Bridgend Hotel is a traditional hotel located in the village of Bridgend, in the centre of Islay. The hotel is housed in a historic building, which dates back to the 18th century. The interior of the hotel is cosy and welcoming, with wooden furnishings and open fires. The rooms are comfortable and well-appointed, with views of the village or the surrounding countryside.
One of the main attractions of the Bridgend Hotel is its proximity to some of Islay’s most popular attractions, including the Bowmore Distillery and Loch Indaal. The hotel also offers a range of outdoor activities, including fishing and cycling, making it an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts. The hotel’s restaurant serves a range of delicious dishes, including locally sourced seafood and traditional Scottish cuisine.
Address: Bridgend, Isle of Islay, PA44 7PQ, Scotland, UK
Conclusion
Islay is a magical island that offers visitors a unique and unforgettable experience. From its world-renowned distilleries to its stunning landscapes and rich history, Islay has something for everyone. The island’s hotels are equally enchanting, each with their own unique character and charm. Whether you are looking for a luxurious stay or a cosy cottage, Islay has an accommodation option to suit your needs.
From the Ardbeg Hotel’s proximity to the famous Ardbeg Distillery to the Port Askaig Hotel’s easy access to the Islay Ferry Terminal, each hotel offers its own unique attractions and amenities. Whether you are a whisky enthusiast or an outdoor adventurer, Islay’s hotels provide the perfect base for exploring all that the island has to offer.
Overall, a visit to Islay is an unforgettable experience that is sure to leave a lasting impression. Whether you are a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveller, the island’s hotels provide the perfect combination of comfort, charm, and adventure, making it an ideal destination for anyone looking to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life and immerse themselves in Scotland’s rich culture and natural beauty.
Olivia’s heart belongs to the great outdoors. As a nature-loving photographer, she’s the one you’ll find scaling mountains, lounging on pristine beaches, and capturing the stunning landscapes through her camera lens. Her keen eye for detail and love for Mother Nature infuse the website with stunning visuals that transport readers to the very heart of their travel destinations. Olivia’s dedication to preserving the beauty of the natural world shines through in every photograph, inspiring others to explore, appreciate, and protect the wonders of the natural world.