Three Scottish holiday lets have been named as among the best in the UK, taking home prizes at a prestigious award ceremony.
The winners of the Sykes Gems Awards, which celebrates the best holiday properties across the nation, were announced this week. The awards, judged by a panel of industry experts, saw a significant number of entries from across the UK and Ireland.
Taking home the Best in Scotland award is Cuillin Shores on the Isle of Skye. Meanwhile, The Hen House in the Highland estate of Belladrum and Druidaig Cottage in the village of Letterfearn received the Best Quirky Property and Best for Views awards respectively.
Properties were judged using owner entries and guest feedback, as well as details such as photos, occupancy figures, and property amenities. The judging panel was impressed by the style and facilities on offer at The Hen House, Druidaig Cottage, and Cuillin Shores, along with guest feedback on cleanliness, comfort and value for holiday.
Graham Donoghue, CEO of Sykes Holiday Cottages, added: "We’re excited to have relaunched the Sykes Gems to recognise and reward some of the best holiday lets across the country.
"A lot of work goes into running a successful holiday let so it was a difficult decision amongst so many wonderful properties, but our final winners are those consistently going above and beyond to deliver unforgettable breaks for their guests.
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"Staycations are as popular as ever in 2023, with many Brits having rediscovered their love of a holiday at home during the pandemic. Because of this, those with a second home in the Scottish Highlands or Islands might be tempted to turn it into a holiday let – with our Gem Award winners offering plenty of inspiration for those who need it!"
Read on for a roundup of the three Scottish holiday lets that were awarded at this year's Sykes Gems Awards. Meanwhile, the full list of winners can be found on the Sykes Gems Awards website.
Cuillin Shores, Luib — Best in Scotland
Cuillin Shores, sitting on the edge of the tranquil Loch Ainort, was built by owners Nina and Shaun Mason after they fell in love with the Isle of Skye during a holiday more than 15 years ago. They have been letting the breathtaking property, which boasts outstanding views towards the Cuillin mountains and across the sea to the Isle of Raasay, since 2020.
While the scenery is undoubtedly the star of the show, other highlights of the property include its open-plan living area with wood-burning stove and its stylish kitchen that is well equipped and perfect for cooking. Cuillin Shores is also centrally situated on Skye, with easy access to a wealth of walking opportunities for all abilities.
Cuillin Shores owner Nina Mason said: "A lot of hard work went into creating Cuillin Shores and we as a family are absolutely thrilled that our special place has been recognised in these awards.
"Reading guest reviews are sometimes incredibly overwhelming as we very much want them to love our home as much as we do. A tranquil place to switch off from the pressures of life and enjoy the fabulous scenery and nature on offer."
More information can be found on the Sykes Holiday Cottages website.
The Hen House, Kiltarlity — Best Quirky Property
Sitting in a tranquil position in the home farm at the centre of the beautiful Highland estate of Belladrum, The Hen House is a one-of-a-kind let that is well deserving of its Best Quirky Property prize. The studio-style layout allows for a gorgeous open-plan living space that beautifully blends old and new.
Outside, The Hen House benefits from a private garden that even has its own hot tub. Its location on Belladrum Estate also provides plenty of scenic walking opportunities along the nearby River Beauly.
The Hen House owner Joe Gibbs commented: "I feel it’s a great honour to be chosen for this award. We love hearing the great feedback we get from our guests and knowing we give them true Highland hospitality is our ultimate goal.
"A top tip I’d give to people thinking of getting into letting is, unless you’re in an area which offers lots of attractions and things to do, get creative and offer something unusual."
More information can be found on the Sykes Holiday Cottages website.
Druidaig Cottage, Letterfearn — Best for Views
Given that it won the Best for Views award, it is no surprise that the highlight of Druidaig Cottage near Fort William is its spectacular surroundings. The charming cottage is nestled on a pretty hillside in the tiny village of Letterfearn, overlooking Loch Duich — with views down the loch to the Five Sisters of Kintail.
These jaw-dropping views are best enjoyed from the property's full-length covered veranda that allows you to take in the sights no matter what the weather. Meanwhile, inside there are two generously proportioned bedrooms, a sunny kitchen and dining room, and a cosy sitting room with a wood-burning stove.
Druidaig Cottage owner Linda Aldam said: "I’ve put so much into making Druidaig Cottage a success, and constantly get great feedback from our visitors, but an award like this really does mean a lot.
"Druidaig Cottage is a special place, and many of our guests return year after year. We’ve become good friends with some of our frequent visitors who often come to escape the hustle and bustle to enjoy being in nature."
More information can be found on the Sykes Holiday Cottages website.
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