Ellister Lodge - luxury Islay self-catering - with Visit Scotland 4**** Grading

Interior of property was very good and clean. Exterior not so welcoming. Yard planters full of weed and grass. Couldn't access decking - and overall view - obscured due to ingress of brambles and willowherb.Good dog-friendly walk up Echo Hill. Engaging amount of wildlife. Quiet and moderately remote. Overall 'Good'

Everything about Ellister Lodge works: from the moment you walk in the door it flows, providing the perfect balance of sociable and private space. All the rooms are spacious, much, much more than functional and well-equipped with everything you could possibly need for a holiday on an island that offers so much in terms of wildlife, walking, moorland, seascape, amazing light, and - of course - fantastic representation of the whisky industry. Not to mention amazing and variable weather, although we were very lucky, but even if we hadn't been so fortunate, Ellister Lodge provides ample space, comfort and resources for amusements for those of all ages. The three showers are fantastic too - talk about a deluge to wash away mud, rainwater and anything else gathered in the great outdoors! During our week's stay we - properly - visited eight distilleries, the wonderful Woolen Mill, the Nature Reserve and virtually the entire coastal area of the island. We ate spendidly in an assortment of hostelries, restaurants and distilleries (some of us also venturing to the Oyster Shed), and we had some very jolly suppers at home. We can honestly say that from start to finish it was a blast. The sighting of golden eagles on two separate days was the cream on top. Wonderful!

Excellent stay in a beautiful house. Loads of space and amenities. Pictures do not do it justice. Lovely island to explore. Would definitely return.

Absolutely fantastic location and facilities. Loads of wildlife around the property. Any queries regarding the island and the host would always be very helpful with ideas and suggestions. The island is a superb place and everyone is very friendly - they even wave at all drivers when they pass you in the opposite direction!! The rest of the UK could learn a thing or two about manners from Islay!