Kinloch Lodge reopens after £750k ‘transformation’

Kinloch Lodge, in Sleat on the Isle of Skye, already has a strong international following and its restaurant holds Skye’s only Michelin star.

A funding package worth more than £500,000 from Bank of Scotland, along with support of £250,000 from Highlands and Islands Enterprise, is said to have resulted in a “stunning transformation” of the property.

Directors Isabella Macdonald and her husband Tom Eveling said they were looking to further enhance the reputation of the hotel, established by Isabella’s parents, Lord Godfrey and Lady Claire Macdonald, who is also a food writer for The Scotsman Magazine.

The overhaul includes six new suites, new bathrooms, enhanced spa facilities and a major expansion of the kitchen, where a “chef’s table” has been introduced for diners to gain close-up experience of the hotel’s chef and director Marcello Tully in action.

The hotel also now incorporates a private dining area, which can take 15 guests. This will also be used for wine tasting events and cookery demonstrations by Lady Claire.

Isabella said: “In today’s highly competitive market, if you stand still, you fall behind and this venture ensures we stay ahead of the market.

“Guests’ expectations are constantly increasing and we have to keep improving and giving visitors the luxury and standard of service they come to expect, at the same time continuing to give value for money.”

Bank of Scotland relationship manager Hamish Malcolm said: “This project can only enhance the reputation and attractiveness of Kinloch Lodge.

“It has a proven track record and these new additions will maintain  its rightful place at the head of the market.

“This investment underlines the bank’s continued support for the Scottish tourist trade.”