The owners of an Argyll hotel are marking its 50th anniversary by embarking on a major £290,000 project to upgrade the property.
Calum and Rachel Ross will increase the number of rooms at the Loch Melfort Hotel from 25 to 30 and hope to improve its star rating from three to four
The couple, who have run the business between Oban and Kilmartin for eight years, aim to target high-end domestic and international tour operators and boost its turnover by 30%.
Since taking the hotel over, their focus on catering for small tour groups and independent leisure travelers has seen turnover double and won several awards.
Mr Ross said: “Over the last eight years Rachel and I have striven to create a sustainable business model for our hotel, centred on employing excellent local staff, providing great customer service, local knowledge and a warm welcome for guests visiting Argyll.
“This year marks the 50th anniversary of Loch Melfort Hotel and this investment will help build on our reputation and enhance the standard of accommodation we provide for years to come.”
The owners have been awarded £101,000 from development agency Highlands and Islands Enterprise (HIE) for the project.
Jennifer Nicoll, HIE area manager for Argyll and the Islands, said: “High level accommodation is crucial to the development of the tourism offering in mid Argyll.
“Loch Melfort Hotel is well-placed to be able to provide this. The owners’ investment plans, aimed at the higher end of the market, will help attract more visitors to Argyll; something that will benefit the wider region, and create valuable new jobs.”
