Today’s news in brief – 19/5/25
The Isle of Mull Hotel and Spa has been named Best Island Hotel at the Prestige Awards, recognising its transformation following a £4m refurbishment. Located on Craignure Bay and part of Crerar Hotels Group, the hotel has enhanced its 75 rooms, added luxury suites, and opened the Oran na Mara Bistro and Driftwood Spa. General Manager Marc Adams accepted the award alongside head chef Noel Escobal and spa manager Morag McLachlan. The hotel, known for its nature and spa retreats, has previously won Best Country Hotel in 2022 and 2023. Adams noted the public vote made this year’s award especially meaningful.
Fonab Castle Hotel and Spa in Pitlochry has joined the Elegant Hotel Collection, becoming its first Scottish member. Originally built in 1892, the 42-room five-star hotel blends historic architecture with modern luxury. Also part of Crerar Hotels, the castle now joins an exclusive network of global luxury properties through a partnership with HotelREZ. This move is expected to boost its visibility in key markets, particularly the UK and the USA. Crerar’s chief commercial officer, Jodie Wright, said the partnership aligns with their ambition to showcase Scotland’s hospitality on an international stage.
Spanish firm Líbere Hospitality Group (LHG) has entered the UK market with a new 44-unit property on London’s Edgware Road, set to open in May 2025. Known for its asset-light model and Nordic-Japanese inspired design, LHG specialises in short- and mid-term serviced accommodations. The move marks its first UK presence and part of a broader expansion beyond Southern Europe. With plans for 16 more openings in 2025, LHG aims to grow to 1,200 operational units and a 3,000-unit pipeline, targeting key European cities where digital nomads and business travellers drive demand.
