US hotel experts unveil Angus Estate refurb

A family with a track record in American hotels has introduced luxury cottages to the Scottish holiday rental market after completing an extensive revamp of an Angus estate.

Archie and June Bennett secured the purchase of Auchavan Estate in the Angus Glens, back in 2018 just as the UK entered lockdown.

As a result, and with distance travel impossible, the couple could not develop the project on site, which sits to the south of the Cairngorms National Park, for more than two years.

Now, following “extensive renovations”, the couple have completed a major restoration of five properties on the near 1000 hectare estate which includes a listed farm cottage called Presnerb, one of the oldest standing dwellings in the tranquil Glenisla.

Rated at either four or five Stars, the cottages – including a former period Hayloft and Stables – are now available for holiday and short break bookings, with the area currently lacking in such boutique options.

Plans are also in consideration to create a group meeting space, containing a ‘window’ into the mountain scenery and its wildlife for family events, business meetings and potential weddings.

With decades of experience in the Texas hotel scene, Mr Bennett oversaw the two-year project, deploying local tradesmen to do everything from improving roads and fortifying bridges to running electricity to an early 20th Century stone cottage for the first time.

With June and a friend and namesake skilled in wallpapers and furnishings, a considerable chunk of the interior decoration and design has been personally undertaken by them.

A sixth luxury property is also likely to be brought into Auchavan’s rental portfolio in the coming months; a water-side cottage which regularly enjoys visits from deer in the evenings.

Archie Bennett said:“We are seeing light at the end of the tunnel now. We didn’t pay much attention to the cottages until we got over here. When we started looking around, some were in pretty good shape – most were not.

“I think we’ve done a pretty good job. I think they’ll be a real addition to upscale lodging in the Cairngorms area. There is not that much here for 4/5 Star. Having several properties, situated together, means whole family reunions and get-togethers are possible; something currently lacking in the area.”

The purchase and redevelopment of the Auchavan properties, fringed by the River Isla, adds to the approximately 2000 hectare Glen Cally Estate, which the family purchased in 2005.

While the Glen Cally estate welcomes sporting visitors, mostly for Deer stalking and grouse shooting, Auchavan comprises a mix of farmland, woodland and excellent walking and wildlife viewing opportunities.