Lochindaal Hotel

5 stars for a lifetime experience we probably won't forget. Be strongly advised not to come here without a reservation. We did so and were told that the restaurant is fully booked (three of the maybe seven tables were taken), but if we can wait an hour, they will be happy to serve us. We agreed on that and were placed in the then empty 'Pub-Site' of this place to have a drink while waiting. Fine with us. After an hour we were handed over the menu. Ordered a cottage pie and a burger. And waited another, mabe an hour. In the meantime I had to go somewhere and had a glimpse in the kitchen and the restaurant. There was no noticeable activity in the kitchen and in the restaurant was one table taken. By the time the food finally arrived, the restaurant was empty und the pub was stuffed with poolplaying local youth and we in the middle of the party. The food was maybe good but we didn't enjoy it. Why couldn't we sit in the restaurant? No sensemaking explanation was given to us. We imagined scottisch hospitality a bit different. Sorry for my english grammar, feel free to correct.

Katie, Ian, Alex and Jack (and co, I know I'm forgetting names here from the bar!) are the friendly local hosts of this brilliantly situated family-run hotel and pub. Myself and my father, advancing in years but not in spirit, spent three nights here and couldn't have asked for a better experience.For one, you're staying in a historic pub, in the old workers rooms above which have been converted to a high modern standard. The beds are comfy and the shower hot - very much needed after traipsing Islay and visiting distilleries - and they also own the local Lochindaal Seafood Restaurant, which makes amazingly good value food with local produce. And superb breakfasts.The pub itself is the real deal. You'll meet and chat to locals, can play pool and imbibe from a selection of local ales and, naturally, excellent chosen whisky. You can also stare wistfully and/or jealously at Ian's insane collection of rare bottles above the bar like I did.One thing to note is that it is a working pub. However we found our room above the restaurant area very quiet. I'd recommend you just take part in the nightlife anyway, as everyone we met was brilliant, the bar comfortable and the drinks good!In a life where I've had the fortune to stay quite a few places globally, I'd say the Lochindaal Hotel is one of the best places I've ever stayed. I genuinely mean that. You're not going to get a reception like this anywhere else, and if you want to see the real Islay - this is where its heart truly is.

What can you say, good good people good area good.It's just a wee part of islay, all good

Rooms are clean and the in house bar features a large choice of beer and whiskey as weel as a pool table. The hotel manager is very nice and his breakfast is hearty and tasty. Be aware that some rooms are right next to the hotel bar which is a local gathering place (it can be a tad noisy until the bar closes)

PROPER BOOZER. We only stayed for a few pints but it was a great atmosphere with friendly locals. A decent selection of whiskies and a few beers. Would recommend.

I passed a week in this lovely pub/hotel.I had dinner multiple times.Tom, Ian and Alex were a great team. Family owned, together with the Seafood Kitchen.I really loved being there, and they make you part of their life.As I was traveling alone, it really gave me joy to be here.

What an amazing place the rooms were comfortable, clean and spacious and the staff were extremely welcoming. Really a home away from home vibe. I can highly recommend Lochindaal Hotel to anyone wanting to visit Islay. The food at the pub and the breakfasts were amazing. Great value for money.

I can't think of a more memorable pub. Ian is a legend in his own time. The food was great, whisky selection top notch and boy did we have fun. Cooked us an impromptu breakfast off hours and we went back the next night. Amazing place, I'll never forget it.

We have not stayed at the Hotel but enjoyed a few drinks and have enjoyed several of their dishes on a nice menus meeting all needs. Well worth a visit.