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 from both near and far. 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 seeking quality and luxury as well as a Loch Ness Monster has been unequivocally answered by CEO Robbie Girvan, who has created a range of 5-star developments to suit couples, families, friends and investors.
Vacation Staycation Loch Ness Group began when Robbie could see a gap in the market for high-end accommodation overlooking the UK’s largest – and arguably most beautiful location.
VSL’s latest development as seen on STV, Sanctuary Loch Ness, is a 5-star retreat sitting on 10 acres. Each lodge is fully furnished and comes with expansive decking perfect for entertaining outdoors and a luxurious hydropool. The family friendly development boasts a newly opened 142-seater bar and restaurant, state of the art gymnasium, outdoor play zone and gift emporium. Lodges range from £89,000 to £199,000 and are open to both private ownership and investment with 10% yield returns. For more information, contact us at 01463 353053.
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.
Papa G’s, a 148-seater restaurant and bar at the Loch Ness Highland Resort, opened in February, serving the finest in seasonal Scottish produce along with top tipples including whiskies from the surrounding distilleries.
Originally from Glasgow, 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.
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.
Each Hamptons Loch Ness lodge features a large freestanding bath, perfect for indulging in a relaxing soak while looking up at the sweeping, unspoiled night sky through the 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 a mixture of the two who 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 voiced their desire to stay. They’re a hands-free, buy-to-let rental investment with fantastic returns. Owners are exempt 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 are actively seeking to invest in other businesses to expand and enhance their portfolio. Robbie’s team share his vision and are dedicated to bringing our clients the best possible experience while also make things as easy as possible for clients. VSL will organise chauffeurs from various locations in Scotland, including the now widely served Inverness Airport. They will 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.’