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A top Western Isles tourism business has made it through to the final of this year’s Scottish Thistle Awards. Whitefalls Spa Lodges in Breasclete, Lewis has been shortlisted in the Innovation category.

The business has two new bespoke self catering lodges built to capture panoramic views. The intention is to provide the luxury and style of a boutique hotel, the facilities of a leading spa and the privacy and independence of a private lodge.

The Scottish Thistle Awards, which are in their 19th year are organised by national tourism organisation VisitScotland. This year’s winners will be announced in October.

Tourism Minister Jim Mather said: “Many people who make up our national and local tourism sectors continue to deliver a huge and vital contribution to the national and regional economies. Nowhere more so than in the Outer Hebrides, therefore I’m delighted to acknowledge their critically important work, which is strongly supporting Scotland’s economic recovery - achieving 2.7 per cent growth in visitor numbers last year against a global drop of 4 per cent.

"The Scottish Thistle Awards play an important part in achieving these results - setting high standards for excellence, innovation and quality and providing the perfect platform to showcase the array of excellent products and services Scottish tourism has to offer. For example the authentic produce we are celebrating this year through our focus on Scotland's iconic food and drink.

"Whitefalls Spa Lodges represent excellence in Scottish tourism, providing quality, value and memorable experiences that encourage visitors toreturn the Outer Hebrides again and again, and they should be proud of their work to drive forward the industry."

Operators Donald Macarthur and Anna Mackay said: The standard of entries is reported to have been very high, so we are very pleased all our efforts have been recognised.

“Our spa lodges have been designed for couples with luxury in mind and have proved very popular for honeymoons, special occasions and romantic breaks.

“Tourism is very important to the Outer Hebrides and demand, particularly for luxury accommodation, continues to grow.

Lewis business nominated for tourism award     8/9/10