April 18th 2024.
Nestled on the picturesque Isle of Harris, a unique drystone home has been named Scotland's Greatest Escape. Drawing inspiration from the Iron Age, this impressive structure known as The Broch is the brainchild of husband and wife duo Adam and Cathra Kelliher. The couple, who also own Taransay - the UK's largest uninhabited island - purchased the Borve Lodge Estate in 2007 and spent three years creating this stunning building.
Cathra's father, a Lancashire native, fell in love with the Isle of Harris at the young age of 17. He instilled this love for the island in Cathra and her family, eventually purchasing the Borve Lodge Estate in 1985 when Cathra was just 16 years old. "Adam and I have been coming here together ever since we met and our four children have all grown up feeling very at home here," Cathra shared.
Winning the title of Scotland's Greatest Escape was a surreal experience for the Kellihers. "What started with an application that we didn't think would even be picked off the slush pile, ended up with us winning - we can't believe it," Cathra expressed. "The process kept us on our toes...to have won, well, words can't really describe it."
The Broch holds the honor of being the first broch built in Scotland in over 2,000 years. Adam and Cathra also own Taransay, adding to their impressive portfolio. "It's a mixture of exhilaration and disbelief," Adam shared. "All the other entrants were of a very high calibre, and it would seem that any of them could have grabbed the top spot, so some deep humility too."
The couple takes great pride in the exceptional service they offer, thanks to their dedicated staff who go above and beyond to provide a memorable experience. "We are proud of the service levels we can deliver and we have an incredible team of dedicated staff who really care about getting it right, with a fanatical attention to detail," Adam added. "And, in terms of the landscapes, Harris speaks for itself - it's one of the last great wilderness areas of Europe, a true coastal paradise."
The search for Scotland's Greatest Escape took the judges to various locations across the country, from the Western Isles to East Lothian, Sutherland to the Mull of Kintyre, Dunblane to Fife and Argyll. Head judge Marina Huggett was blown away by The Broch, calling it a worthy winner of the prestigious title.
"From the monumental exterior structure, with its stunning architecture influenced by Iron Age Brochs, to the inspired detailing of the high-quality interiors, the overall aesthetic is faultless," Marina praised. "Geographically, The Broch is an escape in every way. Harris is a very special place: home to some of the best beaches in the country and a wild rugged coastline."
She added, "The views from The Broch are both spectacular and breathtaking, whatever the weather. The customer experience is exceptional - very subtle, but with care and attention on each step of the customer journey. There is a clear intention to go above and beyond to deliver a tailored and unique stay that will be remembered forever."
The judges were also impressed by the business's commitment to its community, using local produce and products, employing locals, and promoting sustainability. "The judges were unanimous in how impressed we were with the overall excellence of this escape," Marina concluded. "The Broch at Borve Lodge Estate epitomises everything that you would want to see in the winner of Scotland's Greatest Escape."
To stay updated on the latest home and garden news, subscribe to Scottish Field. And for those looking for a unique and unforgettable escape, The Broch at Borve Lodge Estate is waiting to welcome you.
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