Four-star Highland hotel at western end of Glen Coe undergoes seven-figure makeover ahead of reopening

A popular Highland hotel that lies at the western end of Glen Coe has undergone a seven-figure makeover as it prepares to reopen its doors next week.

The four-star Ballachulish Hotel, which dates back to 1877, has undergone a significant refurbishment thanks to a £1.3 million boost from owner, the Crieff Hydro Family of Hotels.

The cash injection during its enforced lockdown closure has resulted in a transformation of the 53 bedrooms and facilities of the hotel including its eating areas. Guests are promised a “stunning Scottish outlook” that takes in Loch Linnhe and Loch Leven.

Stephen Leckie, chief executive of Crieff Hydro Family of Hotels, said: “By investing in our Ballachulish Hotel, we have ensured our guests can have the best experience possible beginning with a warm Scottish welcome.

The four-star hotel, which dates back to 1877, will officially reopen its doors on April 26 following the easing of lockdown restrictions.

“We are committed to investing, not only in our portfolio but also in Scottish tourism as it begins to rebuild, and we look forward to opening our doors in the coming weeks.”

The dog-friendly hotel is said to offer the perfect base for walks, hikes and bikes to explore the surrounding area. The leisure facilities of sister hotel Isles of Glencoe are accessible to Ballachulish guests.

The hotel group runs eight establishments – Crieff Hydro, Peebles Hydro, Murraypark Hotel in Crieff, the Park Hotel in Peebles, Taypark House in Dundee, the Isles of Glencoe, Ballachulish Hotel and Kingshouse Hotel.

As well as fronting the group, Leckie is chairman of the Scottish Tourism Alliance and has been a strong voice for the hotel and hospitality industry during the pandemic.

The cash injection during its closure has resulted in extensive refurbishment of the 53 bedrooms.

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