Inside Whisky Maker Ardbeg’s Whimsical New Hotel in Scotland

Single-malt whisky maker Ardbeg just stepped onto the hotel scene.

The famed Scottish distillery, which falls under the LVMH umbrella, has opened the doors of its Ardbeg House, a luxe hotel nestled in the village of Port Ellen in Islay—where, of course, the brand crafts its spirits. And, as you’d expect, the property has plenty of nods to Ardbeg’s whiskies.

That starts right with the boutique hotel’s 12 guest rooms and suites, each with their own story that shows off the history of Islay and Ardbeg. The interiors are rather unique, setting the scene for a maximalist stay that’s a far cry from a contemporary-styled retreat. One accommodation, the Rebel Suite, takes its design cues from the sea rebellions of Islay, full of nautical references, striking patterns, and bold green and blue hues. Another, the Monster Room, is awash with red and brown, offering up a chandelier that sprouts from the ceiling, seemingly alive, and a massive bed wrapped in vines as the room’s statement pieces, Afar reported. The wallpaper in this space also has a special meaning: It was a custom project meant to evoke crocodile skin, paying homage to the legend of Islaygator. (The brand even created a whisky in honor of the creature.) And, if you’re looking for an extra surprise, you may find a bottle or two of whisky hidden throughout the rooms.

Elsewhere, the Signature Restaurant and the Islay Bar each have their own story to tell. The bar space, with a boat looming overhead and moody furniture, offers up a collection of spirits only found at the distillery—and now, the hotel, too. The Ardbeg team tapped Russell Sage Design Studio to bring the new hotel to life. The restaurant, meanwhile, offers fine dining with an Islay twist: Think hand-dived Islay scallops, Islay blackface lamb, and more.

And there are special perks for those who come to lay their heads at the new hotel. You’ll be able to snag private distillery tours and opportunities to explore Islay’s great outdoors. Plus, you’ll want to hang around the bar at 6:15 p.m. each night for a special whisky tasting.

“With Ardbeg House we are very excited to immerse our guests in the spirit of Islay and the universe of Ardbeg,” says Caspar MacRae, the brand’s president and CEO. “Whether our guests are smoky malt lovers or just discovering our exceptional whisky, we guarantee they will leave the island as lifelong fans of Ardbeg and Islay.”