Star quality in Aberdeenshire

An Aberdeenshire self-catering property is celebrating after achieving VisitScotland’s premier Quality Assurance (QA) award.

Dalriada Luxury Lodges has achieved a 5-star grading from the national tourism organisation at its very first grading visit.

With an investment of over £1.5m, and a lot of hard work and effort from the McAlpine family and staff, the 5-star Quality Assurance award is reflective of the commitment and passion shown by this new tourism business.

Dalriada comprises a total of eight lodges, all of which have stunning views across Stonehaven Bay. Each lodge is decorated with a modern interior and includes two bedrooms, with en suite bathrooms, and a comfortable lounge and dining area, accommodating up to four adults.

VisitScotland’s 5-star Quality Assurance award recognises businesses which achieve exceptional levels of excellence. The QA scheme is a benchmark for quality across the tourism industry and operates across accommodation, visitor attractions and the food sectors.

With a big focus on supporting the local community and helping its guests make the most of their time in the area, Dalriada Luxury Lodges has also joined an impressive network of VisitScotland Information Partners (VIP), committed to providing local information to visitors.

Launched in May 2016, the VIP programme harnesses the local knowledge, warmth and enthusiasm of partners across the country to help visitors receive the warmest of welcomes and make the most of their trip to Scotland.

Bob McAlpine, Chief Executive at Dalriada Luxury Lodges, said: “The Dalriada directors and staff are delighted to receive the VisitScotland 5-star Quality Assurance award for our self-catering lodges. Our aim is to provide a luxury experience for our guests and to receive the top award is recognition of the hard work that we have all put into the business.

“We engaged fully with the VisitScotland team and received invaluable support, assistance and expert guidance throughout our journey. We will look forward to working with Jo, Dennis and their colleagues in the future.”

Jo Robinson, VisitScotland Regional Director said: “It was a pleasure to present the team at Dalriada Luxury Lodges with their well-deserved 5-star plaque. My sincere congratulations go to them on this outstanding achievement and I wish them continued success for the future.”

“Our Quality Assurance schemes are world-leading and provide a trusted, independent and impartial source of information for visitors. The star rating reflects the entire visitor experience, as well as the investment in the business to make it as economically sustainable and profitable as it can be.”

Developed and improved for over 30 years, VisitScotland’s Quality Assurance Schemes are world-leading and provide a trusted, independent and impartial source of information for visitors. They allow businesses not just to meet visitor expectations, but to exceed them.

For more information about the property visit: dalriadalodges.com

For more information on Quality Assurance visit: visitscotland.org