Ahead of its highly anticipated autumn opening, Ardbeg is thrilled to reveal the initial design details of Ardbeg House, a new world-class whisky and hospitality experience set on the captivating Scottish island of Islay.
Following a multi-million-pound transformation, the former Islay Hotel in the village of Port Ellen – just a stone’s throw from the Ardbeg Distillery – will reopen early this September. Ardbeg has entrusted the transformation to renowned interior storymakers Russell Sage Studio to craft an experience imbued with the spirit of the island, and the unique tales of Ardbeg Islay single malt Scotch whisky. Community, craftsmanship, and creativity have been at the heart of every decision, all while channelling a uniquely Ardbeggian flair.
Ardbeg House will showcase the talent of Islay’s creative community, featuring custom artworks including specially commissioned murals by local artist Jane Taylor. The hotel will also incorporate bespoke pieces from other Scottish artists, such as a striking Ardbeg ‘A’ copper sculpture created from a decommissioned Ardbeg still. This stunning centrepiece, handcrafted by Edinburgh-based blacksmith and artist Jack Waygood, will anchor the hotel’s reception lobby, providing a memorable and iconic welcome.
The hotel will feature 12 bedrooms, each telling a story deeply rooted in the legends and people of Islay and Ardbeg. Guests will discover subtle design elements woven into each room’s décor to support this storytelling. The Rebel Suite is inspired by the great sea rebellions of Islay and pays homage to Ardbeg’s spirited attitude, while The Founders Suite is a thrilling tribute to the original Lords of the Isles, celebrating Ardbeg’s Celtic roots. Bold and unapologetic, each bedroom is designed to surprise and delight, with hidden panels leading guests to Ardbeggian discoveries.
Inspired by Islay’s ever-changing skies, verdant hills, rich peat banks, and, of course, its celebrated whiskies, The Islay Bar is the perfect backdrop for a pre-dinner dram. A focal point of the bar is a large tapestry that captures a contemporary interpretation of an Islay scene. The original artwork was created by Islay-based artist Sarah Macfarlane, then meticulously crafted into a tapestry by Scottish knitting group, the Deeside Knitwits.
Outside, The Untamed Courtyard will feature a handcrafted smoker and grill, courtesy of Ardbeg’s multitalented distillery technician Daniel Branson, offering guests the chance to savour barbequed dishes that mirror Ardbeg’s signature smoky notes.
This homage to smoke and fire can also be found within the house’s Signature Restaurant, where a ‘Fire Table’ takes centre stage, featuring detailed metalwork inspired by Islay’s nature, and the Ardbeg whisky-making process. Now open for bookings, each table in the restaurant will tell its own story. The ever-changing menu will offer dishes which can be expertly paired with Ardbeg single malts for a unique tasting experience, selected from the restaurant’s very own whisky trolley, featuring a variety of limited and rare Ardbeg expressions.
No visit to Ardbeg House will be complete without experiencing its namesake, the nearby Ardbeg Distillery, which is a short drive from the hotel. Every stay at the house includes a complimentary distillery tour offering a deep dive into the peaty potion that started it all. And beyond the whisky, Islay beckons with its beautiful white-sand beaches, abundant wildlife (including otters, seals, and rare bird species), and striking landscapes and coastlines.
