By Ian McConnell
The former MacKinnon Country House Hotel on the Isle of Skye has been acquired by the Fusion Group hospitality business.
The historic property, set in nearly five acres of grounds, will continue to be run as a hospitality business and rebranded as The Isle of Skye Guest House.
Built in 1912 by Major Archie MacKinnon, the house is overlooked by the magnificent Sgurr na Coinnich mountain range, and is one of the first stop offs after the Skye Bridge.
Subject to planning, Fusion intends to develop part of the house grounds into a modern lodge park, offering 34 two-bedroom lodges for let, alongside a custom built club house.
The property currently has nine en-suite bedrooms in the main guest house. A further six, also all en-suite, are in a separate garden lodge.
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Alex McKie, group managing director of Fusion Group, said: "We're pleased and delighted to announce this significant acquisition of MacKinnon House on Skye. It marks an exciting time as we emerge from one of the most challenging times for our sector, but I have to say we as a group are coming out of it stronger, more diverse and in a position to positively disrupt the market. There’s more in the pipeline too.
"Skye has enjoyed even greater popularity as a UK staycation destination over the covid19 pandemic, being on many a bucket list as a place to visit,” added Mr McKie. “We look forward to capitalising on this continuing trend in the coming months, and indeed, plan to add further value to the offering at the Isle of Skye Guest House by developing a lodge park to attract more self catering guests."
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Fusion Group's portfolio includes Old Churches House in Dunblane.
Mr McKie said: "We live and breathe hospitality, with over twenty five years experience across the board. Owning properties outright is always our main objective, as we can put our own stamp onto the properties. We are delighted to have found the perfect one on the beautiful Isle of Skye."
He said Fusion would be installing in-built fridges to each of the bedrooms at the guest house, offering a complimentary light breakfast of cereals, yoghurts, juices and muffins.
Mr McKie said: "We have found that this concept works well in other properties we have in our portfolio," he said. "It's a step up from pure self catering, and saves on kitchen and staffing costs so that we can keep the price of the accommodation keenly competitive. In a location such as Skye, guests are often keen to be up and out very early to go climbing, hillwalking and other such outdoor pursuits. This type of breakfast offering gives them flexibility. We'll also use locally sourced products where possible."
He added: "The lodge park, subject to planning, and the new breakfast offering, are proven ways in which we will be adding value to this established business, but our experience in both managing, consulting on, and owning hotels, serviced apartments, guest houses, B&B's and holiday parks, mean we have many more in our armoury."
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