We had a fireside chat with the fabulous Dorothy Welsh, CEO of Luxury Scotland. We discussed the ever-growing popularity of slow travel in Scotland, where visitors can truly immerse themselves in their surroundings and with the US being such a key market for Scotland the abundance of historical anecdotes throughout the country make slow travel even more attractive. Dorothy shares her insight into hidden gems, events that visitors must attend and even revealed Scotland has the tallest waterfall in the world!
DT: Which upcoming trends or innovations are you most excited by and why?
Slow travel – travellers taking their time to immerse themselves in Scotland and staying longer. Also, the increase in sustainable travel with increased interest in electric car touring itineraries and using public transport such as trains.
DT: What is a hidden gem in your destination that guests often overlook but should absolutely experience?
There are quite a few – one I recommend is Kilmartin Glen in Argyll, located between Oban and Lochgilphead on the west coast. It is considered to be one of Europe’s most concentrated areas for prehistoric remains and is home to over 800 structures within a 6-mile radius, including burial sites and standing stones. Look out for Dunadd Fort where ancient kings were crowned and the early Scottish nation was forged.
DT: Which are your key markets and typical guests?
During May to September the USA .is very dominant, and Germany too, while from October to March it’s the UK market who love to come and stay.
Our typical guests are aged 40-70; people who appreciate nature and enjoy being active in Scotland’s breathtaking scenery. Foodies who love the wonderful natural larder that Scotland offers, as well as a great range of whiskies and craft gins and beers.
DT: What unique trends or developments are you observing at the hotels, that others might not have noticed yet?
Wild wellness – forest bathing, wild swimming in Scotland’s lochs; dark skies, ‘ edutainment’ – learning through immersion in the destination – e.g. foraging, otter spotting both at Kinloch Lodge, beekeeping at Glenapp Castle, Photography tours at Inverlochy Castle
FUN FACT you may not know about: Scotland is home to the tallest waterfall in Britain, named Eas a’ Chual Aluinn. It is 658feet tall, which is 3 times the height of Niagara Falls.
Did you know
Invisible Cities are a social enterprise, which trains people who have experienced homelessness to become walking tour guides in their own city: Empowering People Experiencing Homelessness Through Unique City Tours by Local Guides | Invisible Cities