Find hotels in Port Ellen from £85

Top reasons to visit Port Ellen

• Stunning Beaches: Port Ellen boasts beautiful shores, perfect for relaxing strolls and enjoying breathtaking sunsets over the Atlantic.
• Rich Cultural Experiences: Dive into Islay's heritage by visiting local museums and engaging with the friendly community.
• Outdoor Activities: Enjoy a range of outdoor pursuits, including golf and scenic ferry rides around the picturesque landscapes.
• Charming Accommodations: Choose from a variety of welcoming hotels and cosy bed and breakfasts, catering to all preferences.
• Romantic Getaway: Ideal for couples, Port Ellen offers a romantic atmosphere amidst stunning natural beauty.

Find great hotels in and around Port Ellen

Discover the charm of Port Ellen with a selection of quality accommodations tailored to your needs. From welcoming hotels to cosy bed and breakfasts, you'll find options that embrace LGBTQIA travellers and offer pet-friendly experiences. Enjoy the stunning beach views and immerse yourself in the unique beauty of Islay Island, ensuring a memorable stay in this picturesque Scottish village.

• Another Place, The Machrie: Experience a unique blend of adventure and business comfort at Another Place, The Machrie. This 4-star hotel is situated in Port Ellen, making it ideal for travellers seeking a pet-friendly getaway. The property offers an array of business amenities including a meeting room, ensuring that business travellers can stay productive. For adventure enthusiasts, there are numerous activities available onsite and nearby, such as hiking, cycling, fishing, kayaking, and horse riding. Furthermore, the hotel accommodates dogs with specific pet policies, providing food and water bowls, thus ensuring a welcoming atmosphere for your furry companions.
• Islay House: Nestled 6.8km from Port Ellen, Islay House is a charming 3.5-star hotel perfect for family vacations. With a focus on providing a kid-friendly environment, this accommodation features an arcade game room that promises fun for children of all ages. The property is also pet-friendly, welcoming dogs with specific provisions. Guests appreciate the warm and inviting atmosphere, making it a great choice for families looking to relax and explore the beauty of Islay together.
• Port Charlotte Hotel: Just 6.8km from Port Ellen, Port Charlotte Hotel is a delightful 4-star accommodation offering a range of dining options, including complimentary breakfast and a full-service restaurant. Guests can unwind at the bar or lounge after a day of exploring. The hotel also features various recreation activities, with hiking and biking opportunities nearby. With modern comforts such as flat-screen TVs in the rooms, this hotel guarantees a pleasant stay for both relaxation and entertainment.

Where to stay near Port Ellen

Port Ellen offers a charming escape on Islay, where you can explore the stunning shores of Loch Indaal and the picturesque Laggan Peninsula. This village is perfect for romantic getaways and cultural adventures, with friendly locals enhancing your experience. Don't miss the vibrant mainland port and the breathtaking landscapes that make Port Ellen a truly enchanting destination for entertainment-themed holidays.

• Islay Island: A stunning gem in the Inner Hebrides, Islay Island is located 4.3km from Port Ellen. Known for its picturesque landscapes and rich whisky heritage, visitors flock here year-round for a blend of romantic, cultural, and entertainment-themed experiences. The island boasts a variety of attractions including beautiful beaches, fascinating museums, and historic monuments. With a peak in visitor numbers during January, April, and July, Islay offers a vibrant atmosphere for golf enthusiasts and shopping aficionados alike, making it an essential stop on your journey.
• Lagavulin: A charming village just 1.2km from Port Ellen, Lagavulin is renowned for its world-famous distillery. This quaint settlement, often bustling from July to September, offers a delightful mix of culture and entertainment. Visitors can explore the local museum and immerse themselves in the rich history of whisky production. Lagavulin's scenic views and tranquil atmosphere provide the perfect backdrop for romantic getaways or leisurely strolls along the coastline, making it a lovely addition to your Islay adventure.
• Glenegedale: Situated 2.5km away from Port Ellen, Glenegedale is a quaint village that invites visitors to experience its unique charm. With a seasonal influx of tourists peaking in March to April and July, Glenegedale is popular for its mix of entertainment, romance, and cultural exploration. The village is home to a captivating museum and beautiful beaches, offering a perfect setting for leisurely days spent soaking in the natural beauty of Islay. With its friendly atmosphere and stunning views, Glenegedale is a must-visit on your itinerary.

Things to do near Port Ellen

Port Ellen, nestled on Islay Island, is perfect for romantic getaways and cultural explorations. Visitors can enjoy activities such as golf at the local course, scenic ferry rides, and organised excursions to discover the island's rich heritage and breathtaking landscapes. With its charming atmosphere and diverse experiences, Port Ellen promises an unforgettable vacation for those seeking both relaxation and adventure.

Shopping

In Port Ellen, enjoy quaint shops offering local crafts and whisky souvenirs. If you're up for a drive, visit the nearby town of Bowmore, approximately 4.3km away, where you can find more extensive shopping options, including the Loch Indaal Distillery shop and charming boutiques.

Recreation

Gigha Golf Club, located 11.2km from Port Ellen, offers a tranquil outdoor experience with picturesque views. Enjoy a round of golf surrounded by stunning landscapes, perfect for relaxation and recreation while embracing the invigorating Scottish air.

Adventure

Experience the stunning landscapes of Islay with a hike along the scenic trails of the Oa Nature Reserve, where breathtaking views of cliffs and wildlife await. Alternatively, explore the island’s rich whisky heritage with a distillery tour, sampling world-famous single malts amidst picturesque surroundings.

Nightlife

In Port Ellen, the lively atmosphere at The Islay Hotel offers a cosy pub experience with local whiskies and live music. Nearby, the Port Ellen Distillery provides tours and tastings, perfect for unwinding after a day of exploration, showcasing the island's rich whisky heritage.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Port Ellen

For an affordable trip to Port Ellen, consider visiting during the off-peak months of December to February when prices are lower. Book your accommodation about a month in advance for the best rates, and check Expedia for last-minute deals. Saturdays tend to be the cheapest days to stay. Use Expedia's search tool to find budget-friendly options and filter for eco-friendly hotels. Additionally, combining your hotel, flights, and activities into a package can lead to significant savings. Don't forget to explore free local activities to enhance your experience without breaking the bank.

• The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay in Port Ellen are December to February, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to May and July to August, where prices are slightly higher.
• The best time to book a hotel: The cheapest time to book a hotel in Port Ellen is usually 1 month out from when you are planning to stay, though if you're late to the party, have a look at Expedia's last minute deals - the green banner below the hotel's price indicates a discounted rate.
• The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay in Port Ellen is Saturday. The most expensive day to stay in Port Ellen is Monday.
• Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Expedia's search tool enables you to set your budget, choose your ideal location, and much more. You can arrange your search results to display prices from lowest to highest, allowing you to discover the most affordable hotels first. Additionally, you have the option to refine your selections by hotel type; for instance, by selecting the Eco-certified filter, you'll be presented with sustainable and environmentally friendly hotels that are available for booking.
• Consider bundling your trip: You can make significant savings by combining your hotel stay in Port Ellen with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.

Find the best attractions in Port Ellen

Port Ellen, nestled on Islay Island, offers a delightful mix of romantic and cultural experiences. Visitors can explore stunning beaches, immerse themselves in the island's rich history at local museums, and enjoy the vibrant outdoor activities available. This charming village perfectly caters to those seeking both relaxation and adventure, making it an ideal destination for a memorable getaway.

• Ardmore Islands: Experience the serene beauty of Ardmore Islands, a tranquil escape with stunning outdoor vistas. Enjoy beach vibes while exploring the unspoiled nature, perfect for a relaxing day or a picnic by the shore.
• Kildalton Chapel: Step into history at Kildalton Chapel, a remarkable church renowned for its exquisite stonework and rich cultural heritage. The ancient atmosphere invites reflection and admiration, making it a significant site for both worship and appreciation of Scottish history.
• White Hart Beach: Unwind at White Hart Beach, a picturesque stretch of sand ideal for sunbathing or a leisurely stroll. The soothing sound of waves and the breathtaking coastal views offer a quintessential beach experience on Islay.

Best time to go to Port Ellen

The best time to visit Port Ellen is dependant on what kind of holiday you are seeking. August is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain. February is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Occupancy	Pricing
January	44.1°F (6.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
February	43.7°F (6.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
March	44.4°F (6.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly High	Slightly Low
April	46.8°F (8.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly High	Average
May	50.5°F (10.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly High
June	54.9°F (12.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly High
July	57.2°F (14.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly High	Slightly High
August	57.7°F (14.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
September	56.3°F (13.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
October	52.9°F (11.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly Low	Average
November	48.7°F (9.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
December	45.7°F (7.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly Low	Slightly Low

The nearest major airports for your trip to Port Ellen

When planning a visit to Port Ellen on Islay Island, you can fly into three major airports. Islay Airport (ILY) is the closest, located 2.5km away, with nearby accommodations like the 5-star Glenegedale House and the 4-star Another Place, The Machrie. Londonderry Airport (LDY) is 34.8km from Port Ellen, offering options such as the 5-star Bishop's Gate Hotel and the 4-star Da Vinci's Hotel Derry. Lastly, Campbeltown Airport (CAL) is 14.3km away, with hotels including the 4-star Ugadale Hotel and Cottages. Each airport provides accessible transportation to local hotels for a seamless travel experience.