A ‘sensational’ Scottish hotel has been named as one of the top 25 hotels to visit in the world by Tripadvisor, a year after it received investment from The Cumberland Building Society.
The hotel, No.26 by the Sea, which is based in the West Highlands Scotland seaside town of Oban, is the only UK destination to be recognised on Tripadvisor’s Hottest New Hotels in the world list, with the venue securing the number 25 spot.
Billed by visitors as ‘sensational’, ‘stunning’, and simply ‘perfection’, the unique stay has received a 5-star rating on Tripadvisor from 176 reviews from guests, and is rated as the number 1 hotel in Oban.
In early 2022 The Cumberland began working with renowned hotel, bar and restaurant owner, Paul Sloan, where the building society provided assistance in the refinancing of No.26 by the Sea, whilst also supporting funding for the acquisition of staffing accommodation.
Coinciding with this funding, The Cumberland invested a six-figure sum into a luxury hotel rebrand and refurbishment project at Oban-based No.17 on the Promenade, which is also owned by Paul Sloan.
Set on the shorefront esplanade, No. 26 by the Sea is a unique, boutique sea view hotel which offers the perfect retreat to escape reality, indulge in luxury accommodation, and experience a warm and welcoming atmosphere.
Hosting nine luxury guest rooms, each with their own enchanting design, the rooms come complete with either breath-taking sea views, woodland outlooks, or their own private garden terrace.
The hotel’s drawing room and lounge looks out across the water to the island of Kerrera, while its Sea Terrace, with couches and fire pits, allows guests to enjoy Oban’s spectacular sunsets.
Whilst the hospitality sector was still facing issues brought about by COVID‐19 in early 2022, The Cumberland made a statement of intent with its financing of No.26 by the Sea, with the recognition the luxury hotel has received from Tripadvisor proof that businesses in the hospitality industry can thrive in difficult times.
With the hospitality sector set to face further challenges ahead in 2023 including a recession, increases in costs and energy bills, as well as higher interest rates, The Cumberland will be on hand to support businesses going forward.
The Cumberland implements a relationship managed approach so customers have direct access with their relationship manager and an associate so they can contact someone who understands their business whenever their need arises.
Alasdair Swan, Senior Commercial Manager at The Cumberland, added: “We’re thrilled to see No.26 by the Sea recognised, and rightly so, as Paul and every member of the team provide a beautifully unique and luxury experience in one of the world’s most stunning settings.
“At a time when the hospitality industry was facing numerous challenges, Paul’s projects and vision in Oban was a breath of fresh air, and shows how businesses in the sector can thrive if they have the confidence to take opportunities to invest in the hospitality sector.
“While 2023 is set to bring with it its own challenges, we think this is still an exciting time for the hospitality industry and we look forward to helping business going forward, not only rise to these challenges, but to thrive in the year to come.”
Paul Sloan said: “We’re delighted to be recognised by Tripadvisor as one of the 25 hottest new hotels in the world. It really pays tribute to the fantastic work all members of the team do to ensure our guests have the most enjoyable visit possible, but also everything that Oban has to offer.
“Also a huge thanks to The Cumberland, whose investment was a key driving force behind the project. I can’t reiterate enough how great my experience of working with The Cumberland team has been. There is always someone on hand to offer advice, which hasn’t always been the case when working with other banks.
“They have allowed me to not only invest in this project, but also look ahead to future investment opportunities, which wouldn’t be possible without their help, and I look forward to working with them on other projects in the future.”
Head quartered in Carlisle, The Cumberland Building Society operates across the UK, specialising in hospitality lending including hotels, holiday lets, buy to let, guest houses, and B&Bs.
