Boutique whisky-themed property that hides a mini bottle in every room named the UK’s best hotel
Boutique whisky-themed property that hides a mini bottle in every room named the UK’s best hotel
A secluded Scottish retreat in the Inner Hebrides recently claimed the title of the UK’s top hotel. The Ardbeg House, nestled on Islay, draws its identity from the famed Ardbeg Distillery. Its unique appeal lies in the deep-rooted passion for whisky that permeates every detail of the experience. Guests are not only welcomed with a curated tour of the distillery but also discover a subtle surprise: a tiny bottle tucked into each room’s decor.
The hotel’s 12 individually designed rooms reflect the island’s natural and mythical essence. For instance, the “smoke” room is steeped in peat-inspired motifs, from its headboard shaped like stacked peat bales to the delicate smoke accents in the bathroom. Russell Sage Studio’s interiors weave together the rugged beauty of Islay and its whisky legacy, creating a one-of-a-kind atmosphere.
Whisky-Infused Dining
At the heart of the property is the Islay Bar, a standout feature offering over 100 distinct whiskies, including the exclusive Badger Juice dram. The on-site restaurant echoes the island’s bounty, serving locally sourced seafood, beef smoked over Ardbeg’s casks, and bread crafted from the same grain used in distillation. Each meal is a tribute to the region’s unique terroir.
“A bit off-the-wall, nothing like anywhere else we visited for our list.”
– The Times, which highlighted Ardbeg House as the pinnacle of its 50 Best Places to Stay selection. The publication evaluated properties based on location, design, culinary offerings, service, and value, noting its distinctiveness as a key factor.
Ardbeg Distillery, which has been producing whisky since 1798, operates under the umbrella of the Glenmorangie Company, a subsidiary of Moët Hennessy Louis Vuitton (LVMH). The hotel opened in September of the previous year, offering an immersive experience that blends history with contemporary luxury.
Getting to Islay
Access to the island requires either a 25-minute flight from Glasgow or a two-hour ferry journey from Kennacraig. Islay is home to ten active distilleries, three of which are connected by the Three Distilleries Pathway, a popular route for visitors. The Fèis Ìle festival, held annually, brings the island to life with open distillery days, ceilidhs, and live performances.
Beyond its whisky heritage, Islay captivates with its dramatic coastlines and wild landscapes. Brave enough to venture into its icy waters, travelers can enjoy pristine beaches. The island also hosts a diverse array of wildlife, from seals and otters to deer, and over 200 bird species, making it a haven for nature enthusiasts.
