Ardbeg House

Ardbeg Distillery Opens Boutique Hotel in Western Scotland - AFAR

"Opened on September 8 on a corner of Port Ellen (about 3.5 miles from the Ardbeg Distillery), this intimate boutique hotel blends whisky history and local craft: designed with Russell Sage Studio, it features handcrafted pieces from more than 20 Scottish and Islay artisans, stories and legends woven throughout, a large Ardbeg “A” made from copper salvaged from the distillery’s old stills by blacksmith Jack Waygood, and a tentacle-like chandelier inspired by Islay sea monsters. I found the 12 distinct suites delightfully theatrical—examples include the Monster Room with crocodile-skin-effect wallpaper nodding to the Islaygator and the 2011 Ardbeg Alligator, the Fèis Room with musical touches and a headboard from a deconstructed piano, the Rebel Suite themed on sea rebellions, and the Founders Suite with hidden panels and quirky discoveries. The hotel hides complimentary drams in rooms (some behind buttons labeled “push for smoke”), offers a daily distillery tour reserved for guests, and arranges island excursions and activities so visitors can explore Islay’s landscapes, wildlife, and beaches." - Devorah Lev-Tov