Islay Accommodation Guide

There’s nowhere quite like Islay. Known as the “Queen of the Hebrides,” this peaceful island off Scotland’s west coast combines rugged beauty with refined experiences, from elegant country houses to celebrated whisky distilleries. Travellers come here for its windswept beaches, friendly island culture, and the unmistakable aroma of peat smoke drifting from its world-famous stills.

For those planning a bespoke tour of Scotland, Islay offers an alluring mix of relaxation and discovery. Whether you’re drawn by the whisky heritage, the coastal scenery, or the promise of tranquillity, choosing the right place to stay can elevate your visit from memorable to unforgettable.

In this guide, we’ll explore the best places to stay in Islay, highlighting the finest Islay hotels and boutique guesthouses where comfort and character meet island charm. Scroll down to find out more. And please don’t hesitate to contact us if you have any questions.

Where is Islay?

Despite its relative remoteness, many visitors are surprised to learn how accessible Islay is. Lying in the Inner Hebrides, just off Scotland’s west coast, you can reach the island via ferry from Kennacraig on the Kintyre Peninsula (around a two-hour trip) or on a short flight from Glasgow (GLA) to Islay Airport (ILY). The journey itself is part of the experience, with views of sea lochs, islets, and rugged mountains creating a dramatic prelude to your arrival.

Islay sits southwest of Oban and northwest of Campbeltown, making it a natural stop on a wider exploration of Scotland’s west coast. For travellers designing a custom Scotland tour, it pairs beautifully with destinations such as Fort William, Glencoe, the Isle of Skye, or even Stornoway in the Outer Hebrides.

While none of Discreet Scotland’s pre-planned tours currently visit Islay, the island can easily be included in a custom itinerary. A tailor-made journey allows you to combine Islay’s coastal beauty and distillery experiences with other scenic highlights of the Highlands and islands.

If you’re looking to plan a journey through this spectacular region, don’t miss our Guide to the Scottish Highlands and Guide to the Scottish Islands. Both are filled with local tips and insights to help you plan the kind of Scotland experience you have always dreamed of.

Recommended Hotels in Islay

Islay’s hospitality is as distinctive as its landscape. From elegant seaside retreats to intimate boutique properties, accommodation here combines warmth, tradition, and modern comfort, all perfectly suited to discerning travellers seeking authentic Scottish luxury.

Another Place, The Machrie – Overlooking the vast sands of Laggan Bay, The Machrie is a contemporary coastal escape that feels both luxurious and unpretentious. Its links golf course is among Scotland’s most scenic, while the restaurant serves refined local cuisine with sweeping Atlantic views. This is luxury accommodation in Islay at its most polished. It’s ideal for golfers, food lovers, and those who appreciate understated sophistication.
Glenegedale House – Perched between Bowmore and Port Ellen, Glenegedale House is a multi-award-winning guesthouse offering genuine warmth and elegant surroundings. Each room is individually styled, and breakfasts showcase local produce, often accompanied by homemade treats. For travellers seeking boutique hotels in Islay with personal charm and five-star service, Glenegedale is hard to surpass.
Ardbeg House – For privacy and exclusivity, Ardbeg House (formerly The Islay Hotel) offers the ultimate island retreat. Located close to the renowned Ardbeg, Lagavulin, and Laphroaig distilleries, it’s ideal for whisky enthusiasts or families looking for a secluded escape. Elegant interiors, the Signature Restaurant, and a tranquil setting in Port Ellen make this one of the best places to stay in Islay for a bespoke experience.
Lochside Hotel – Situated in Bowmore, the island’s main town, Lochside Hotel combines comfort and convenience with sweeping views over Loch Indaal. Guests can enjoy hearty meals and a fine selection of local whiskies in the hotel’s lively bar. It’s the perfect base for exploring the island’s distilleries and attractions.
Port Charlotte Hotel – Nestled in one of Islay’s prettiest villages, Port Charlotte Hotel is a refined coastal property with character in every detail. The hotel’s restaurant and bar are renowned for fresh seafood, local ingredients, and a superb whisky list. For those looking for boutique hotels in Islay with traditional charm, this is a standout choice.
Bridgend Hotel – A country house set amid landscaped gardens in the heart of Islay, Bridgend Hotel offers peace, comfort, and classic Highland hospitality. It’s ideally positioned for exploring both the island’s north and south coasts, with Loch Gruinart and Bowmore within easy reach. Expect elegant interiors, attentive service, and a timeless atmosphere.
Bowmore Hotel – In the heart of Bowmore, this welcoming family-run hotel offers simple comfort and a genuine sense of community. Its location near the famous Bowmore Distillery makes it a convenient choice for travellers keen to sample Islay’s whisky heritage while staying close to shops and restaurants. The hotel is also home to many great live bands, something that could add a unique dimension to your stay.
No. 1 Charlotte Street – Located in Port Ellen, No. 1 Charlotte Street blends modern design with relaxed coastal living. This cosy bed and breakfast is just a short walk from the ferry terminal, making it ideal for travellers arriving or departing the island. Light, contemporary rooms and friendly service make it one of the most stylish Islay hotels for short stays.
Lochindaal Hotel – One of Islay’s most characterful inns, Lochindaal Hotel offers traditional charm, hearty food, and a whisky bar that locals and visitors alike adore. Overlooking the bay at Port Charlotte, this family-run gem is perfect for those who want an authentic West Highland welcome in a scenic seaside setting.

What Makes Islay a Special Travel Destination?

For an island of modest size (it’s Scotland’s fifth largest island), Islay offers an extraordinary range of experiences. It’s most famous for its whisky — the smoky, peated spirit that defines the island’s character — but its appeal extends far beyond the distilleries. Visitors can explore wild beaches such as Machir Bay, spot golden eagles over the RSPB Loch Gruinart Reserve, or wander through villages where time seems to slow down.

There are ten working distilleries on the island, including household names like Laphroaig, Lagavulin, and Ardbeg, each offering a glimpse into Scotland’s proud whisky-making traditions. Add to this Islay’s excellent local produce, from seafood to farm-to-table fare, and you’ll find a culinary scene that rivals any in the Hebrides.

With ample opportunity for hiking along rugged coastlines, invigorating bike rides, incredible fishing, horse riding, and playing on top-class golf courses, you may wonder how Islay stayed off your radar for so long.

At Discreet Scotland, we can use our local expertise to create a custom Scotland tour that includes Islay. Whether you want to pair its whisky experiences with the dramatic scenery of the Highlands, the cultural highlights of Edinburgh, or any of Scotland’s other unmissable experiences, we can make it happen.

Why not browse our range of carefully crafted Scotland multi-day tours to find inspiration for your own bespoke experience?

Let’s Start Planning Your Bespoke Scotland Tour

Whether you’re visiting for the whisky, the wildlife, or simply the serenity of island life, Islay promises a rare kind of luxury, one that blends authenticity with refinement. From the boutique hotels in Islay that overlook its tranquil bays to grand country houses set in rolling countryside, this special place offers a perfect base for unwinding and exploring.

If you’re dreaming of an itinerary that’s as distinctive as Islay itself, consider working with Discreet Scotland to design a journey tailored entirely to your interests. With a private guide, luxury transport, and local insight, your trip can include the best places to stay in Islay and so much more.

Discover how your Islay adventure could fit seamlessly into a custom Scotland tour. Do you have any pre-booking questions? Please feel free to get in touch for all the information you need.