Lews Castle plans

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Natural Retreats reveals 5 star proposals for Lews Castle 17/3/14

► Tourism businesses surveyed over Lews Castle row

► Comhairle urged to delay Lews Castle lease

The sole bidder to lease the hospitality accommodation facilities in the Lews Castle has revealed its plans for the historic building/

Natural Retreats say they will create a 5-star experience at the iconic Castle, subject to formal approval and on-going discussions with Comhairle nan Eilean Siar.

The redevelopment has created controversy as the Natural Retreats - an international specialist leisure and travel company - plans to create self catering apartments within the castle.

Existing holiday home operators this will seriously hit their trade as the local market is over-supplied.

Matthew Spence, founder and chief executive of Natural Retreats, said: “I am delighted to share our vision for Lews Castle. We hope to create a 5-star accommodation offering and service and look forward to sharing this wonderful destination, which boasts stunning scenery, a rich history, wildlife and endless activities, with our guests. It is easy to see why this was voted the Number 1 European Island to visit recently by TripAdvisor, I couldn’t agree more.”

A company statement said: “The accommodation at Lews Castle will be completed to a 5-star standard and will consist of 52 bed spaces which include stunning en-suite rooms and larger suites that make the most of the unrivalled setting, some of which will contain kitchen and dining areas.

“Due to the innovative design, the accommodation can be offered to guests in different configurations containing one, two and three bedrooms. This allows a wide range of visitors to be accommodated from families and couples to groups and corporate guests.”

It added: “The ground floor of Lews Castle will feature a dedicated and staffed reception space for guest check-in along with a guest lounge and bar. These will be in addition to the on-site café where guests can enjoy locally sourced food or have delicious dishes delivered to their room.

“There will also be a retail and activity space and unique function rooms to allow the castle to host weddings, conferences and events.

The style of accommodation planned for Lews Castle has been branded as an ‘Inn’ by Natural Retreats and will be similar in terms of flexibility to the inaugural Inn launched at the iconic John O’Groats in August 2013.

The company statement added: “The interior design, furnishing and fittings within the Castle will be in keeping with Natural Retreats brand standards – modern, contemporary, functional and inspired by British and preferably local designers and manufacturers.

“This commitment to design-led development is what sets Natural Retreats apart. The Inn at John O’Groats has been put forward for a number of international design awards and has featured heavily in the international press.”

► Tourism businesses surveyed over Lews Castle row

► Comhairle urged to delay Lews Castle lease