New Owners for Newtonmore Hostel
Long-time SIH members Peter and Kathryn Main are moving on from running their very popular and successful Hostel in Newtonmore. However, the good news is that the Hostel will continue under the enthusiastic new owners Sue and Ali who are looking forward to an idyllic lifestyle in the Cairngorms National Park.
Hostelling by Horse!
Long distance event riders, Simon from Keith on 21 year old Bobby, Sue from Elgin on 12 year old Wallace, "Wally" to his friends and Mary from Huntly on 19 year old Moray depart the Lazy Duck Hostel in Nethy Bridge after a June overnight stay. The riders were taking part in the 'Silver Boot' event, an informal competition covering 135 miles in 6 days during which the 8 teams of riders from across Scotland converge on Blair Atholl. This group had ridden from Keith. Points are gained in relation to the heights above sea level achieved. This group, supported by Leon with supplies and safety backup had arrived at The Lazy Duck Hostel in Nethy Bridge from their previous night in Glenlivet. The next night would be in Glen Feshie and then on to Mar Lodge. It is the third such event to be accommodated at the Nethy Bridge hostel where it is possible for horses to be grazed in the adjacent field next to the Soay sheep, hens and waterfowl. The arrival of the three riders and their mounts from the moorland next to the hostel created much interest from hostellers and campers preparing their evening meals after an early evening downpour of rain.
People Power – hostelling under your own steam
Morag’s Lodge in Fort Augustus is rewarding people who arrive using peddle, paddling and plodding power with discounted rates. Their “People Power” initiative is to encourage and inspire people to experience the Loch Ness countryside by travelling overland under their own steam. The lodge has teamed up with Haggis Adventures to offer an activity based trip through the Great Glen by pedal, paddle or plodding for those who want to brave the elements and have an overland adventure. There are a number of places still available for trips in August so to explore the Great Glen by foot, bike, canoe and sea kayak on a multi-day trip. Congratulations are due to Morags Lodge which reached the final short list for a prestigious Institute of Hospitality Award in May, beating 4 and 5 star hotels for “Team of the Year”
Donkey Foal delights guests at Urr Lodge
Baby Donkeys really are the cutest of all young creatures! The Donkey that lives in the field next to Urr Lodge in Castle Douglas produced a foal in August to the delight of visiting hostellers. Urr Lodge has excellent family facilities and is a great location for people wishing to enjoy the amazing selection of outdoor activities on the doorstep; a donkey foal is just a delightful extra!
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