Campsites well represented in Aberdeen City & Shire Tourism Awards
Campsites in the north east of Scotland are to be honoured at a high-profile tourism awards ceremony. Ythan Valley Campsite and High Seas Hobbit have both been shortlisted in the Best Holiday Accommodation category at the 2015 Aberdeen City and Shire Tourism Awards (ACSTA). The awards, which are entering their second year, are organised by Aberdeen City and Shire Hotels’ Association and celebrate the best tourism operators in the region.
Offering unique “glamping” experiences to its guests, High Seas Hobbits near Fraserburgh has a series of cylindrical chalets, evoking the spirit of The Shire in JRR Tolkien’s beloved books. With full bed and bathroom facilities, the Hobbits allow holidaymakers the chance to connect with nature in style. Drawing the attention of the BBC’s Go Explore – and even the Scottish Loo of the Year Awards for their whisky barrel facilities – High Seas Hobbits has gained a reputation for excellence.
Ellon’s Ythan Valley Campsite offers its guests a more traditional camping experience, but its staff are no less dedicated to providing them with an outstanding experience. Gourmet bacon rolls and freshly baked bread are delivered straight to the tents, impromptu barbeques with locally-caught fresh fish are held throughout the year, and an outdoor “bush shower” allows campers to infuse their wash with specially chosen herbs. With many guests returning for multiple visits, the campsite’s attention to detail has won the affection of campers across the country.
ACSTA chairman Iain Watson says, “We set up ACSTA because we believed that tourism providers in Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire are providing an incredible experience for visitors to the region. Entries for this year’s awards are up by 25%, and the number of quality applications we received this year only goes to strengthen that belief.
“Aberdeen City and Shire has so much to offer visitors, including world-class golf, shopping and leisure attractions as well as accommodation and fantastic transport links. We are delighted to be able to celebrate those who go the extra mile for their customers in the north east of Scotland.”
ACSTA has 14 categories ranging from Best Hotel and Friendliest Pub/Bar to Green Tourism and Creative Ambition. Two additional categories have been introduced this year, and the sections have been aligned with the national VisitScotland-backed scheme, The Scottish Thistle Awards. It is intended that ACSTA will become adopted as the regional final for the Scottish Thistle Awards by 2016.
Final judging will take place before the end of the year and winners will be announced at a glittering awards ceremony at Ardoe House Hotel and Spa in Aberdeen on January 30, 2015. Host for the evening will be broadcaster Tam Cowan.
Further information about the awards is available at www.acsta.co.uk
