Vacation Staycation Loch Ness
Staying on the shores of Loch Ness is the perfect place for a relaxing break - or some monster spotting
One of the most mystical places on the planet, Loch Ness sees millions of visitors each year. Entrepreneur Robbie Girvan, CEO of Hamptons Loch Ness, tells us how the stunning lodges at various locations are giving people the opportunity to purchase their very own slice of luxury.
Home to the country’s most legendary and biggest resident, its tranquil water and beautiful surroundings attract visitors in their millions from both near and far every year. While many may come to catch a glimpse of the monster, people stay for the loch, the spectacular views and the endless activities on offer throughout this region of the highlands.
The question of where to stay when one seeks quality and luxury as well as a Loch Ness Monster has been unequivocally answered by CEO Robbie Girvan, who over a period of 20 years has created a range of five-star developments to suit couples, families, friends and investors.
Vacation Staycation Loch Ness Group began when Robbie could see there was a gap in the market for high-end accommodation overlooking the UK’s largest - and arguably most beautiful location.
VSL’s latest development, Hamptons Loch Ness, is a 44 lodge, 5-star development on the banks of the loch, bookings came thick and fast and when it was clear the demand was far outstripping supply, Robbie then went on to purchase Loch Ness Lodge Retreat, a 5-star exclusive development next to the area’s golf course at Fort Augustus.
Further investment saw the creation of Loch Ness Glamping World and Loch Ness Highland
Resort which offers both lodges and glamping pods all with modern features and luxury touches including outdoor jacuzzis.
February 2022 will see the opening of Papa G’s, a 148-seater restaurant and bar at the Loch Ness Highland Resort, serving the finest in seasonal Scottish produce along with top tipples including whiskies from the surrounding distilleries. We are also excited to launch our expansive Gift Emporium and Leisure Suite.
Originally from Glasgow, VSL’s managing director and CEO Robbie has travelled the world, taking inspiration from hospitality and tourism industries from across the globe to create a venture that pulls together the best of the best in service and facilities to provide the ultimate in visitor experience.
The newest developments: Hamptons Loch Ness and Sanctuary Loch Ness offer optimum indulgence, each with a private hot tub on an expansive decking where guests can marvel at the view of Loch Ness and keep an eye out for Nessie.
Each Hamptons Loch Ness lodge features a large free-standing bath, perfect for indulging in a relaxing soak while looking up at the sweeping, unspoiled night sky through the striking roof window above while enjoying a glass of bubbly for the ultimate
romantic night in. Contemporary features include two master bedrooms both boasting en-suite bathrooms and walk-in wardrobes, meaning the wild and secluded Highlands has never felt more like home. Sink into comfort while the changing light of the Great Glen paints a magical atmosphere around you.
For lodge sales they found three categories for their clients; those who are looking to make a return on their investment, holidaymakers who see the lodges as a second home or for holidays for friends and families, and those who are a mixture of the two – they stay at their lodge, but have the choice whether to rent it out when they aren’t there. VSL Group are proud to say that their lodges have a 92% occupancy rate, so 9 times out of 10 there is always someone staying in them. They’re in demand all year round. The sheer quality of the design and build means that even pure investors have mentioned that they’d like to stay. They’re a hands-free,buy-to-let rental investment with fantastic returns. Owners are exempt too not only from council tax but also stamp duty and second home tax.
Tourism in Scotland is more popular than ever – it increased by 24% by the end of 2019, post pandemic there was a 41% increase due to Staycation. They realised that they needed more lodges to meet demand and from there, they invested a further £10.5 million into Vacation Staycation Loch Ness (VSL).
The Group currently owns 9 successful businesses within the leisure sector and we’re actively seeking to invest in other businesses to expand and enhance our portfolio. My team all share my vision and are dedicated to bringing our clients the best possible experience. We also make things as easy as possible for clients. We’ll organise chauffeurs from various locations in Scotland, including the now widely served Inverness Airport. We even organise transport by helicopter if requested.
For managing director Robbie Girvan, Loch Ness is a global brand and one that Scotland should be extremely proud to call its own. ‘We are incredibly lucky to have such a beautiful place on our doorstep. Providing guests with the perfect surroundings to enjoy this area in all its splendour and experience a real sense of peace and tranquillity is what the team at VSL strive to achieve. Apart from golf, I class what I do for a living as a hobby because of the level of passion I have for it. I have immense pride in showcasing one of Scotland’s most spectacular areas. I view Loch Ness as the eighth wonder of the world, it’s on many people’s bucket lists and the team at Vacation Staycation Loch Ness want to provide visitors with an experience that is worthy of such an accolade from the moment they arrive.’