Best Practice Case Studies

The Cluanie Inn, Glenmoriston
- work the winter walkers...

The Cluanie Inn in Glenmoriston is open right through the year, and discounts online bookings heavily in the off-season, knowing that guests will also then spend money on food and drink. Winter income is particularly welcome, as it helps to cover the ongoing heating bills. In the past the Airleys have tried three nights for the price of two offers. As most walkers are coming for the weekend however, they have found that it is easier to discount the price of the room.

Staying open all year has the added bonus that staff are retained all year round, with the benefits from continuity which that brings. In such a remote location, where local staff are not easily found, retention is a key issue. The hotel also provides services for the local community by staying open, providing meals for the passing trade, a small petrol station and tourist information services. A handy location on the road to Skye also makes it a popular meeting venue all year round for various organisations.

The thirteen bedroom hotel is particularly popular with climbers, given the proximity of a whole host of Munros. They therefore provide the key services needed for those enjoying the outdoors in the winter- a big open fire, a place to dry wet clothing and climbing gear, and hot food and drinks in the afternoon when people return from the hill. The latter can be hard work, but customers definitely welcome their hot soup and toasties.

Others come not for the climbing but for a luxury winter weekend away from it all, complete with sauna and jacuzzi bath. In fact the luxury rooms are the best sellers all year round.

The hotel’s website includes a “pop up” asking people to sign up to an electronic newsletter. This includes details of special events and activities, low season room rates and last minute reader offers- so out of season offers are much more prominent than on many websites.

Further information: www.cluanieinn.com

This case study features in the publication 'Wake up to Winter'.  You can download the full publication at the bottom of this page.

Case study added March 2006

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