News, awards and what's on

As a new year slowly dawns, it may be dark outside but across the Luxury Scotland collection, our properties and partners are already finding ways to shine.  

Our early 2026 round-up sees awards nominations for Little’s Chauffeur Drive and Glenapp Castle, alongside a prestigious Top 50 Boutique Hotels accolade for The Torridon.   

It also signals an exciting new chapter at Monachyle Mhor, where a newly appointed Executive Head Chef is ready to step up to the plate.  

Read on for the full January scoop.  

Little’s make a big impression
Little’s Chauffeur Drive have started their 2026 on a high, earning shortlist recognition in two categories at the prestigious UKInbound Awards for Excellence.   

Alongside a nomination for Transport Provider of the Year, tour executive Lydia Housley has been shortlisted for the Young Excellence Award, a standout achievement.  

Dedicated to championing excellence across the inbound tourism sector, UKInbound represents a broad and competitive landscape spanning tour operators, accommodation, attractions, destinations, transport, restaurants and bars, making this recognition even more impressive.    

We wish all the team at Little’s Chauffeur Drive, and Lydia in particular, the very best of luck ahead of the final awards announcement! 

A recipe for success at Monachyle Mhor 
Monachyle Mhor has recently appointed Scott Davies as its new Executive Head Chef. Scott brings a wealth of experience from The Three Chimneys on Skye, where he spent nine years honing his craft at one of Scotland’s most celebrated kitchens.   

Alongside him is new Head Chef, Ross Bott, who has made the move north from London to Balquhidder. Ross previously worked as a private chef and over his career has achieved 3 Rosettes and helped to maintain Michelin stars — experiences he now channels into creating memorable, inspired dishes at Monachyle Mhor.

Owner Tom Lewis is delighted to welcome both Scott and Ross to the team, given their shared respect for provenance, seasonality and ingredient-led cooking.   

These appointments marks an exciting new chapter for Monachyle Mhor’s kitchen and we can’t wait to see what’s on the menu.   

Giddy new heights for The Torridon 
Congratulations to The Torridon on achieving 8th place in the prestigious Top 50 Boutique Hotels Awards. This recognition reflects the boutique resort’s world-class hospitality and consistently outstanding guest experience.  

All the best for Glenapp Castle  
Our warmest congratulations, too, to Glenapp Castle. They’ve been included in the nominations for Travel and Leisure’s World’s Best Awards 2026. Why not show them a little love by voting for them here?