Inspired by Islay
The interiors are shaped entirely by the island itself. Acclaimed British interior designer Selina van der Geest drew her inspiration from Islay’s dramatic landscape and mercurial weather—vibrant lichens on stone, warm bracken on the hillsides, deep seaweed tones along the shore, moss-softened branches and tumbled pebbles.
Her intention was to bring the outside in: She created a true home where guests return from a day out, to feel gently enveloped by the same colours and textures found beyond the windows. Over several years, furniture, textiles and artworks were collected, allowing the house to evolve slowly and instinctively – layer after layer.
Quiet Luxury, Layered and Warm
Throughout Cairnmore House, materials are tactile and honest: soft tweeds against polished wood, velvets beside limewashed walls, handwoven wool paired with aged brass. There were moments of clarity along the way—the discovery of a specimen marble drinks table; a pair of Arts & Crafts appliqué screens, separated and rehung as panels in the Drawing Room, giving historic craftsmanship a new life.
Fireplaces, window seats and tucked-away corners invite lingering. Soft blankets for cozy winter days accompanied by delicious Earl Grey tea, freshly brewed coffee, a dram of Islay whisky and wonderful books – it is all there.
The atmosphere is calm and confident, luxury without ostentation, elegance without formality.
Cairnmore House is offered as a fully private retreat, with daily housekeeping. Private dining can be arranged in advance. Service is thoughtful and unobtrusive, allowing guests complete freedom to disconnect.
This is a house that responds to the weather-glowing on stormy days, expansive and open when the skies clear. A place of warmth, privacy and deep connection to its setting. Cairnmore House is somewhere you settle into, connect with nature, slow down, and quietly belong.
FERRY
Islay can be reached by ferry from both mainland Scotland and Northern Ireland. Ferries can be booked through Caledonian Macbrayne departing from Kennacraig sailing to Port Ellen or Port Askaig. The journey is approx. two and half hours.
From Northern Ireland the Kintyre Express links Campbeltown in Kintyre, Ballycastle on the Antrim Coast and Port Ellen. This is a passenger only ferry but has ample room for luggage, golf clubs, bicycles etc.
AIR
Loganair fly direct from Glasgow to Islay airport which is three miles from Cairnmore.
CAR HIRE
We recommend renting a car while on Islay, as the taxis are often booked.