The new owners of one of Scotland’s most exclusive hotels have revealed plans for significant investment in the resort.
The five star Isle of Eriska Hotel and Spa was owned for more than 40 years by the Buchanan-Smith family.
But the business near Oban has been bought by a family company from Shanghai, who have big plans for improvement.
New owner, Wayne Rong, said: “My family and I are offering a bridge of friendship from beautiful Shanghai to stunning Scotland. We are honoured to continue as the custodians of such an iconic property and aim to protect and nurture the island, securing a bright future for Eriska for years to come.”
The private island covers 300 acres and includes a 25 bedroom five star hotel with a Michelin-starred restaurant, a golf course, nature reserve and spa.
The sale of the island was agreed in August 2016 and completed in the autumn. New owners, Creation Gem, a company located in Hong Kong, is solely owned by one family.
They have committed to a significant investment, with the construction of four new Hilltop Reserves already underway and planned renovations to the main house in the pipeline.
The lodges come with their own private hot tub.
A full renovation of seven of the hotel’s 25 en-suite bathrooms has been completed and the new piano lounge and drawing room will be launched this month.
Calum Ross, chairman of Oban and Lorn Tourism Alliance, said: “This is testament to the fantastic product that we have got in this part of the world.
“Argyll right now is out performing the rest of Scotland in tourism.
“The fact that we have a foreign investor acquiring one of the best hotels in Scotland, putting more money into it and making it even better is fantastic news for the industry and can only be welcomed.”
Lead Councillor for Oban Lorn and the Isles, Roddy McCuish, said: “I am delighted that this company has come in to build on the great reputation that this hotel has had for many years.”
