Sandyhills based Barend Holiday Lodges recently won the title of Best Lodge of the Year category and took the trophy home at the Hotel Awards Scotland 2019.
The event welcomed over 120 guests at the Glasgow Marriott Hotel, on Tuesday 1st of
October in a celebration of the Scottish hotel sector.
Co-owner of Barend told DGWGO ‘We’re delighted to have won this award for “Best Holiday Lodge of the Year”, against some excellent competition. Whilst it came as a pleasant surprise, it is wonderful that the hard work of the team here has been acknowledged; especially since the award was voted for by our guests and then a panel of expert judges.
My husband and I took over the company 2 years ago, and along with a small but
hardworking team, we have since worked hard to modernise, improve and expand the
business. Since we took over we have worked hard to upgrade our online presence;
our communal areas, including the swimming pool and reception; and encouraged the
lodge owners to upgrade their lodges.Over 50% of our guests are repeat visitors, which is testimony to the popularity of the
site. Unlike other accommodation providers, we specialise in the lodges here, which
gives a personal touch. Guests can book online or phone – and then speak to one of 4
of us, whom they will then meet again when they are here. Our ability to personalise
the holiday for people helps us stand out from the crowd and we look forward to
further improving over the coming years. This area of Scotland is sadly overlooked
and we will continue to work hard with other businesses to encourage people to “turn
left at Gretna” and discover the delights of Dumfries and Galloway.‘A Spokesperson for The Hotel Awards Scotland 2019 said:”These awards have just
celebrated their 1st year and are well on their way to becoming a stable event in the
country’s business calendar. The event provided an excellent platform for networking
and marketing for all hoteliers present to celebrate each other’s achievements of the
hotel sector.”
“Many of the finalists have spent years dedicated to the industry and we are delighted
that their efforts have been recognised and celebrated. We would like to thank the
public for their overwhelming support and congratulations to the winners for their huge
achievements at the ceremony.”
The awards acknowledged the true value of hotels that lie within the heart of our local
communities in Scotland and recognised the importance of hotels, how they help drive
tourism by offering visitors exceptional hospitality and a unique Scottish experience.
The Hotel Awards Scotland recognised all hotels, guest houses, B&B’s and more: from
independently owned local businesses, to chain hotels who have made their mark on
Scotland and beyond. The awards look to give a platform to these hotels from which to
voice their admiration and loyalty to the hotel of choice.
The awards were hosted by the author and presenter, Josie Smith who announced the
winners of each category on the night. She welcomed on stage the finalists of each
category who go above and beyond for the hospitality sector and provide guests with
an unforgettable stay and experience.
