Top 12 Airbnb Vacation Rentals In Islay, United Kingdom - Updated 2024

Philip
Philip 
Updated
| 6 min read

If you’re a whiskey fan then you’ve certainly come to the right place! One of Scotland’s most iconic whiskey-producing regions, the malts of Islay are rightly famous all across the world. Ardbeg, Laphroaig, Bowmore and Lagavulin - they all hail from this Inner Hebridean isle and are just some of the eight distilleries still working on its shores today. What’s more, it’s not just the ‘water of life’ for which Islay is well known. It is a wildlife enthusiast’s paradise - more than 100 different bird species can be found on the island, and the surrounding waters are home to everything from basking sharks and dolphins to seals and whales. There are also a number of popular beaches and even a mix of cultural and walking festivals to enjoy - should your trip happen to coincide with one of them. So, whether you plan on using Islay as a base to do a little island hopping or are keen to throw yourself into its famous whiskey culture, keep reading and select one of the top Airbnb vacation rentals in Islay, United Kingdom, for your stay.

We handpicked these listings carefully, considering (wherever possible) Superhost status, recent guest reviews, location, accommodation type, prices, availability of dates, decor, and amenities. The image galleries get refreshed with the latest updates regularly. They were last updated on February 05, 2024.

1. Charming home with a green roof (from USD 203)

This charming accommodation near Port Ellen in Islay features a green roof with stunning views of Kilnaughton Bay, Port Ellen, and other nearby islands. The property keeps comfort at the forefront with heated flooring and an indoor fireplace for cozy nights during the cold season. The doors to the concrete patio can fully open for an indoor-outdoor feel; dine al fresco or simply let the air and natural light in!

With an abundance of open space outdoors and the property being pet-friendly, enjoy your vacation with your furbaby.

Stayed at this property?
Isle of Islay, United Kingdom
282 reviews   Superhost Wifi Available Wheelchair accessible
Earthen home 1 Bed 2 Guests 1 Bedroom 1 Bathroom

Accommodates: 2

Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
what an amazing place the view was amazing the cottage cozy and richard was a fantastic host
and the main sitting room was flooded with natural light from the floor-to-ceiling windows
the views were spectacular and the place was impeccably clean and cozy as can be
pros: a beautiful very clean modern extremely comfortable high quality wee house with a stunning view
the panoramic windows over the bay were amazing and the rooms were comfortably luxurious
Cleanliness:
the house is clean and well decorated
stunning views super clean and a warm host
Host:
lovely host with great recommendations and a basket of maps and books about islay
richard is a wonderful host
richard was an amazing host he was very accommodating and knowledgeable about the area
he is the most thoughtful host and the house exceeded our expectations
richard is a generous host that goes above and beyond what is expected
Location:
this place is absolute perfection
we highly recommend this location
the lodge was stunning and completely exceeded my wildest expectations and the location was unbelievably breathtaking
most amazing is the location overlooking the sea the bay the boats the islands the birds
it is the ideal place to relax after a day of sightseeing and exploring islay
Read more reviews

2. Terrace house with a backyard

This charming terrace house Airbnb in Bowmore, Islay, is centrally located with McTaggart Leisure Centre, banks, and other important amenities nearby. Since the island is famous for its whiskey, you might also want to add Bowmore Distillery to your itinerary. The property features a fully equipped kitchen, but you should also try local eats such as Peatzeria nearby. There’s also a backyard, an open space where you can better appreciate the surrounding landscapes. There’s also Wi-Fi and TV for entertainment.

Stayed at this property?
Bowmore, Scotland, United Kingdom
153 reviews   Superhost Wifi Available
ENTIRE HOME 3 Beds 4 Guests 2 Bedrooms 1 Bathroom

Accommodates: 4

Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
it is very comfortable and has all the mod-cons of a 21st century self-catering property
the house is very comfortable and had everything we needed
Cleanliness:
place was really clean and comfortable
the house was clean and cozy
cottage is clean and well stocked that make it feel homely
the house was lovely very clean and had everything we needed
margaret’s property was fantastic for our stay in bowmore everything was super clean and comfortable
Host:
host is very kind
great host super quick to reply very helpful
the host was easy to communicate with i would recommend
margaret responsive and a helpful host
margaret was very helpful and responsive
Location:
cute house close to everything you need
it's a perfect location in bowmore very centrally located
can only recommend this location
great location just a couple blocks from bowmore distillery
perfect location to explore the island as you are right in the centre of it
Read more reviews

3. Central flat in Port Ellen

A great option for families looking to explore the island, this two-bedroom holiday rental in Islay can sleep up to four people and is positioned within Port Ellen - placing it within easy reach of numerous distilleries and the ferry. Not only that but its central location means guests are just metres away from Leodomas beach and some of the local food options. But there are also plenty of amenities in this home, with the site boasting an open-plan living and kitchen space, wi-fi access and cable TV. There’s also a dishwasher and washing machine, the latter of which will come in useful for those planning longer stays.

Stayed at this property?
Port Ellen, United Kingdom
220 reviews   Superhost Wifi Available
ENTIRE RENTAL UNIT 4 Beds 4 Guests 2 Bedrooms 1 Bathroom

Accommodates: 4

Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
great modern loft with all the necessary self catering facilities
reliable wifi kitchen/cooking facilities lovely bathroom tv etc
gorgeous cozy yet spacious apartment with a cottage feel
the apartment is exactly what you can see at the photos and it is lovingly furnished
lynne's place is great exactly as you see in the photos and very comfortable
Cleanliness:
super clean incredibly spacious property
a fantastic place that is clean modern and stylish
nice and clean just as nice as the pictures
lynne’s place was clean and as described
very nice flat very clean
Host:
peaple are so kind
lynne is a very responsive host
lynne is very responsive great host
lynne was helpful in explaining check in and very responsive to any questions
Location:
the location is absolutly perfect
this apartment was super cute and in a great location
perfect location for exploring the island
great apartment in good location
super close to the southern three distilleries
Read more reviews

4. Double-bed wood cabin outside Bowmore (from USD 121)

Enjoying the best of both worlds, this small but stylish cabin is set on open land close to the island’s main village - Bowmore. It makes the very most of its big skies thanks to its decking and open-air seats, but also enjoys seating space for simple snacks and a double-bed inside that is sure to appeal to couples or solo travellers. Amenities include TV, heating and a shower room. Former guests were impressed with its proximity to Bowmore, the host’s local tips and the property’s position within easy reach of the island’s many attractions by car.

Stayed at this property?
Bowmore, United Kingdom
267 reviews   Wifi Available
Hut 1 Bed 2 Guests 1 Bedroom 1 Bathroom

Accommodates: 2

Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
hot shower coffee and tea heat comfortable bed closet space etc
very cosy & comfortable cabin awesome view over the island
we would recommend getting the breakfast (not included) as it was a great way to start the day
stunning views walking distance to bowmore and comfy bed - perfect
the shower is satisfying the bed comfy and the place warm enough
Cleanliness:
it was simple calm and clean
it was clean comfortable and the perfect size
the cabin is quiet and lovely clean as a whistle
the tiny house was quiet clean and comfortable
jim's place is as advertised - a cool clean little place
Host:
jim was a helpful host
jim is a friendly helpful host
jim is a great host
:)the host: jim was amazing
jim was an excellent host
Location:
ideal for a quiet trip away
super location from which to explore the island
it's a good central location to explore islay
amazing place and beautiful location
great location too 15 minutes to each port 2 minutes to bowmore
Read more reviews

5. Cabin close to the Oa peninsula and Port Ellen (from USD 178)

This self-contained, two-bedroom cabin is situated next to the ‘Swallows Roost’ bed and breakfast - and that name is well earned. The property is set on the edge of the Oa peninsula (pronounced Oh), which is a popular bird-watching spot and a Royal Society for the Protection of Birds (RSPB) Reserve. Despite the immediate area’s excellent wildlife credentials, the village of Port Ellen - with its ferry access and local facilities - is just three miles (five kilometres) away by car. And the picturesque location does not mean you have to miss out on decent mod-cons either - one of the bedrooms is even en-suite. Amenities also include kitchen, TV and a spacious deck area on which to unwind in the cracking Hebridean air.

Stayed at this property?
Isle of Islay , Argyll and Bute, United Kingdom
132 reviews   Superhost Wifi Available
Entire cabin 3 Beds 4 Guests 2 Bedrooms 2 Bathrooms

Accommodates: 4

Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
comfortable for 4 romantic for 2
everything worked perfectly: check-in heating hot water kitchen equipment you name it
very comfortable with two full bathrooms
warm and comfortable accommodation
Cleanliness:
premises is clean and tidy
the pod was comfortable clean and well kept
it was very clean tastefully furnished and well equipped for self-catering
very clean very comfortable and an excellent base to explore the island
lovely clean pod perfect for a short stay nice touches by susan to complete the welcome
Host:
she is a wonderful host
the host was so welcoming and easy to communicate with
susan was a wonderful host
a wonderful spot - susan and david were very good hosts
susan was a great host providing local knowledge
Location:
great location and very friendly
great place to stay near port ellen
one of the best location i have ever attended
great location but you’ll definitely need a car
there is a beautiful white sand beach within walking distance
Read more reviews

6. Flat in Bridgend with balcony deck area (from USD 152)

Another option that will appeal to couples or solo travellers, this one-bed Airbnb accommodation in Islay is located in Bridgend - which makes it an ideal base for the A846 road to the two ferry terminals of Port Ellen and Port Askaig as well as for the A847 out to the west of Islay. The property itself includes an excellent balcony deck area overlooking the local river and is well placed for the local food shop. Amenities include a fully-equipped kitchen, TV and on-site parking. Former guests were mightily impressed - giving the flat top marks for location and cleanliness.

Stayed at this property?
Isle of Islay, Argyll and Bute, United Kingdom
63 reviews   Superhost Wifi Available
ENTIRE RENTAL UNIT 2 Beds 2 Guests 1 Bedroom 1 Bathroom

Accommodates: 2

Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
it would be perfect if wi-fi were also provided
wonderful apartment with river views
great having sky tv in the evenings
sky tv was appreciated to keep us entertained on rainy evenings
great location and the flat has a spacious living room with a balcony just over sorn river
Cleanliness:
the coachman flat was spacious and clean
Host:
the hosts are very friendly and helpful
katherine is a good host who responded my questions very quickly and also provided us a very comfortable accommodation
we meet our host katherine who was super nice
katherine is a very good host
katherine was a great host - easy to contact and provide useful tips when needed
Location:
great stay perfect location thanks katherine
perfect location to explore the island
great location for a stay in islay
the location is central to islay and easy to get to and from
very good place in the middle of islay island
Read more reviews

7. Cottage in the heart of the island

This two-bedroom cottage, which was originally a school house, would make a charming home away from home for families or friends visiting the island. Equipped with underfloor heating and even a peat-burning stove - for that authentic cosy island experience - the property also enjoys its own garden for taking in the air and a private driveway, ensuring that getting to and from the site will pose no problem. Located in the middle of the island close to the road linking Bridgend to the ferry terminal and village at Port Askaig, it will be perfect for those using a car to explore the area. Amenities include wi-fi access, a kitchen and laundry facilities.

Stayed at this property?
Isle of Islay, Argyll, United Kingdom
178 reviews   Superhost Wifi Available
Entire cottage 3 Beds 4 Guests 2 Bedrooms 1 Bathroom

Accommodates: 4

Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
the beds kitchen wifi and shower were good and made for a comfortable stay
the old school room is the perfect base for exploring islay
we had an amazing stay at the old schoolroom cozy with a modern touch
the space is perfect very spacious and cozy
very delightfull house with two good bedrooms sittingroom and kitchen
Cleanliness:
very clean and comfortable
a very comfortable and clean cottage
the house was spotless and beautifully decorated
warm comfortable clean and fresh scones
a cosy cute and very clean cottage
Host:
welcoming and helpful host
meri and david were absolutely wonderful hosts
a very helpful host
meri is a delightful host and always ready to answer questions
meri was a great host
Location:
great location personal touches
great house in a central location on isla
excellent place in an excellent location
this is a wonderful place in a great location
the location is great—midway to everything and the place is very quiet and comfortable
Read more reviews

8. Studio bed-and-breakfast room near Port Charlotte

Another property within easy reach of a nearby distillery - this time Bruichladdich - this private bed-and-breakfast room is located just 10-minute walk away from the picturesque village of Port Charlotte, which overlooks the sea loch of Loch Indaal and boasts a host of charming whitewashed houses. The village is also home to some popular bars and restaurants and features popular sights such as the beach, lighthouse and Museum of Islay Life. The bedroom also comes with access to a guest lounge with TV and wi-fi access. Past guests loved the “splendid host” and gave the property top marks across the board.

Stayed at this property?
Port Charlotte, Scotland, United Kingdom
248 reviews   Superhost
Private room in guest suite 1 Bed 2 Guests 1 Bedroom 1 Bathroom

Accommodates: 2

Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
nice and comfortable with lovely views
the cottage is well appointed warm and extremely comfortable
ensuite bathroom well heated clearly newly renovated for guests
this comfortable little space has a fully outfitted kitchen and we really appreciated the instant endless hot water
catherine’s place is a beautiful cozy apartment with a beautiful view just outside port charlotte
Cleanliness:
very clean and well furnished
very quiet and peaceful and very clean and warm
her b&b was clean and perfectly decorated
studio is clean neat and cosy
catherine treats you like one of her kids (without making you clean )
Host:
she is also very helpful
catherine was a great host
catherine was a splendid host helpful in anyway possible
a wonderful time and a wonderful host
catherine is an amazing host
Location:
great location with kitchen
the perfect location for a relaxing break in islay
this is an ideal place to stay if you wish to relax and get away from everything
beautiful location across the street from the bay
lovely place near the sea
Read more reviews

9. Private low-cost room in Port Charlotte

Those seeking to explore Islay on a budget without compromising on quality may wish to opt for this highly-rated but reasonably-priced private room option in Port Charlotte. Guests enjoy access to double or single beds and a shared living room, as well as a number of mod-cons such as wi-fi and laundry access. Former guests were full of praise, giving it top marks for location and cleanliness and hailing the welcoming hosts as well as the view.

Stayed at this property?
Port Charlotte, Scotland, United Kingdom
143 reviews  
Private room in guesthouse 2 Beds 2 Bedrooms 1 Bathroom
Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
i stayed in their smaller room but the thoughtful touches were noticeable
breakfast was a nice additional touch
a perfect quiet and very fairly priced room for the night
the house is beautiful with lots of nice touches and we woke up to a nice breakfast
Cleanliness:
nice clean and warm room
rooms and bathroom were clean and spacious
the room and bathroom are clean and set tidy
everything was sparkling clean
great little place in port charlotte - clean and comfortable
Host:
david and maggie are great hosts
host maggie is very kind
lovely stay with very hospitable hosts
margaret is really great host and she was very helpful
lovely stay and lovely hosts be sure to check the ferry schedule when planning your trip
Location:
superb location with good food in close walking distance
the location is fantastic good 30 seconds to bus stop
town is perfect location
this is a great location in port charlotte
decent spot for the money good location
Read more reviews

10. Flat close to ferry and distilleries in Port Ellen

Located close to the ferry linkspan at Port Ellen on the south of Islay, this one-bedroom flat will be a great place to base yourself when exploring the island. Not only is it convenient for the ferry connection back to the mainland, but the flat itself places you within easy reach of three of the island’s popular distilleries - Laphroaig, Ardbeg and Lagavulin - so whisky aficionados will be thoroughly in their element. The flat is also convenient for the village pub, for socialising or grabbing a hearty meal, although the flat also comes with its own kitchen for preparing your own dishes. Other amenities include wi-fi access, a TV and on-site parking. Little wonder then that the property won hundreds of rave reviews from past guests.

Stayed at this property?
Port Ellen, United Kingdom
351 reviews  
Entire apartment 4 Beds 1 Bedroom 1 Bathroom
Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
comfortable with plenty of room full amenities
the apartment is fully heated and very clean
full kitchen available for cooking and living room for entertaining
yvonne has a nice cozy flat where we rested in between seeing distilleries and natural landmarks on islay
well equipped too — everything you need in the kitchen and bathroom
Cleanliness:
everything was clean and comfortable
yvonne’s place was clean and spacious
very comfortable accommodation which was spotlessly clean
it was very clean and spacious and we loved having the whole space to ourself
lovely flat clean and well stocked
Host:
yvonne is a wonderful host and provided suggestions for the local restaurants
great host great place great position
yvonne is a great host
and yvonne is an amazing host and we highly recommend staying here
Location:
the location was fantastic
great location in the heart of port ellen
very nice apartment and location
great place in a great location
great place central location highly recommend
Read more reviews

11. Pod cabin within easy reach of distilleries and Port Ellen

Located just to the west of Laphroaig and its popular distillery, this two-person pod cabin is perfect for couples or two friends looking to enjoy the area’s whiskies and walking opportunities. Not far from Port Ellen, which is just 20 minutes away to the west on foot, it is also just moments away from the popular Three Distilleries Coastal Path which links that village with Ardbeg in the east. And, as the name makes clear, there are a few distilleries to enjoy while tackling the rewarding trek. Although the pod is small, it is stylish and comes equipped with a simple kitchenette, wi-fi access and electronic charging station. Guests loved the views of the area and gave the site top marks.

Stayed at this property?
Port Ellen, Scotland, United Kingdom
179 reviews   Superhost Wifi Available
Tiny home 1 Bed 2 Guests 1 Bedroom 1 Bathroom

Accommodates: 2

Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
really amazing cabin stunning view and it is really cozy
the shower was excellent the views are incredible
the view from the round window is outstanding breakfast was quite basic but good
the food left for breakfast was a fab touch including fruit bread that was delicious
ron and emma also left thoughtful touches like crumpets for breakfast and twix in the pod for us
Cleanliness:
the property is very clean and functional
the house is absolutely spotless and very comfortable
really pleasantly surprised how modern and clean everything was
the pod itself is cozy and clean and warm
the pod itself was clean cosy and actually more spacious than we expected
Host:
the hosts were lovely
ron was helpful and made us feel at home
ron was a great host who was warming welcoming and knowledgeable about the island
wonderful hosts and a gorgeous cabin
thank you ron and emma for being lovely hosts
Location:
the location is fantastic
this was a very cute space at a great location on islay
and within walking distance of three distilleries- bliss
beautiful spot in a great location
a very unique accommodation with a fantastic location
Read more reviews

12. Flat in Port Charlotte

Another highly-rated option in Port Charlotte, this two-bedroom property is sure to appeal to small families or couples looking to explore this picturesque island. Split over multiple levels, the property enjoys excellent coastal views and garden space. There’s a kitchen for whipping up meals during your stay, and on-site parking which will come in very handy for exploring the island by car. Guests should bear in mind that there is no wi-fi or TV but, with its many natural charms, you may very well be thankful of the lack of tech to distract you. Previous guests certainly seemed to think so, giving the property top marks right across the board.

Stayed at this property?
Argyll and Bute, Scotland, United Kingdom
210 reviews   Superhost Wifi Available
Barn 4 Beds 3 Guests 2 Bedrooms 1 Bathroom

Accommodates: 3

Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
no tv or wifi was bliss
having no wi-fi or tv was just great
a great view from the kitchen and bedroom
cathy's place is lovely with the most wonderful view from the kitchen/ dining area
comfortable with good facilities and local amenities nearby
Cleanliness:
it was spotlessly clean too
it was clean and practical
clean great value for money
it was immaculate on our arrival and communication both before and during our stay was impressive and helpful
it was very clean with beautiful sea views
Host:
lovely place lovely host
cathy was such a kind and helpful host and gave great advice on the best walks/beaches to visit
cathy is a great host and provided maps booklets and lots of local info
islay is lovely beautiful scenery lots of wildlife and friendly people
cathy was the perfect host made us feel so welcome
Location:
great location and space
great location would definitely recommend
the location of the property is perfect
fantastic location central to everything we wanted to see/do
it’s in a perfect location
Read more reviews

The 'Water of Life' awaits

Its reputation among whisky aficionados and wildlife fans means that there are plenty of Airbnb vacation rentals to choose from when planning your stay on Islay. Which will you choose?

Islay is also the perfect base to explore nearby destinations! Stay in an Airbnb vacation rental in Port Charlotte and explore the charms of a port town.

Stayed at this property?

Frequently asked questions about Airbnb vacation rentals in Islay, United Kingdom


Any must-sees we missed? Tell us about them in the comments section or write a post here to help out fellow travelers!
Disclosure: Trip101 selects the listings in our articles independently. Some of the listings in this article contain affiliate links.

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Philip, a writer and photographer situated in the heart of the picturesque Scottish Highlands, is a seasoned professional journalist with a rich portfolio of contributions to various newspapers,...Read more

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