A Warm Welcome in the Heart of Islay
Wake up to open skies and birdsong. Spend your days walking, watching the many different kinds of birds and wildlife, exploring the beautiful beaches or sampling the many whiskies Islay has to offer. Return to a warm welcome and a comfortable place to unwind.
Why Stay at Ayen Cottage
Personal, Attentive Hosting
You are welcomed personally and treated as a guest rather than a booking reference. We are always happy to help with distillery planning, restaurant suggestions, transport advice or local recommendations so you can make the most of your time on Islay.
Breakfast Worth Getting Up For
Breakfast is freshly prepared each morning and cooked to order. Guests regularly comment on the traditional Scottish options, homemade jams and quality ingredients that make it a highlight of their stay.
Peaceful Rural Setting
Ayen Cottage sits in a quiet countryside location near Ballygrant. Surrounded by open landscapes and big skies, it offers a calm place to relax while still being well placed to explore every part of the island.
Ideal Base for Whisky Visitors
Islay's famous distilleries are all within easy reach. Whether you are visiting for a short whisky break, touring multiple distilleries or attending the Feis Ile festival, Ayen Cottage makes a convenient and comfortable base.
What Our Guests Say
TripAdvisor
221 Reviews
Open more reviewsLovely hosts who made us feel at home. The room was spotless and the breakfast was excellent.
Google Reviews
49 Reviews
Open more reviewsWarm welcomes, comfortable rooms and a great base for exploring Islay.
Freetobook
A Friendly, Relaxed Place to Stay
Ayen Cottage is a small family-run bed and breakfast with just three guest rooms. This allows us to welcome every visitor personally and help you make the most of your time on Islay.
The communal dining room also has comfortable chairs, an interactive map and plenty of books on Islay and its whisky heritage. Guests can swap stories, exchange ideas and make plans for their next adventure.
Plenty of free parking is available on site.
Family and Pet Friendly
Families are always welcome at Ayen Cottage, and we aim to make stays relaxed and comfortable for guests of all ages.
- Spacious rooms suitable for couples or families
- Travel cot and high chair available if needed
- Safe and peaceful countryside surroundings
- Plenty of outdoor space nearby to explore
Well-behaved dogs are also welcome in Room 1, allowing guests to bring their four-legged companion along on their island stay.
Experience Islay
From peaceful countryside and welcoming hospitality to world-famous distilleries and wildlife, Ayen Cottage offers a relaxed base for exploring everything Islay has to offer.
Staying at Ayen Cottage gives guests a relaxed base from which to explore the island at their own pace.
Museum of Islay Life
In Port Charlotte, the museum tells the story of island life through the centuries.
Islay Natural History Trust
Also in Port Charlotte, discover the island's wildlife and natural heritage.
Finlaggan
Once the seat of the Lords of the Isles, with a visitor centre and interpretive trail.
Islay Birding Paradise / RSPB Loch Gruinart
Viewing hides and visitor centre for spotting geese, waders and wetland birds.
Getting to Ayen Cottage
Ayen Cottage is located near Ballygrant on the Isle of Islay, around five miles from Port Askaig ferry terminal.
Most visitors reach Islay by:
- Ferry from Kennacraig to Port Askaig or Port Ellen
- Flights from Glasgow to Islay Airport
Clear directions and travel information can be found on our Travel to Islay page.
Ready to Plan Your Islay Escape?
Book direct for the best experience and personal service.