40 Pier Road

The smell of salt and peat smoke drifts through Port Ellen's streets, and from 40 Pier Road you're close enough to hear the harbour water lapping against the pier.

This is guest house accommodation with a camping pod option, tucked into the whisky heartland of Islay's south coast. It suits couples touring the distilleries, solo travellers hopping over from the mainland, or anyone who wants a proper roof after too many nights under canvas but still fancies something a bit different from a standard B&B. The pod gives you your own space if you're after that camping feel without the full tent commitment. Dog owners should ask ahead — policies can flex depending on the season and bookings.

You've got wifi onsite, which matters when you're on an island and want to sort ferries or check the weather rolling in off the Atlantic. Campfires need checking on arrival — coastal sites have their own rules, and Islay wind has a say in most outdoor plans. It's a quiet, working harbour vibe rather than a manicured campsite feel, open all year for those drawn to winter Islay or the summer distillery festival crowds.