Inside the UK’s most unique AirBnB at stunning location on iconic NC500 route

A STUNNING Scottish property on the iconic NC500 route has scooped a top tourism title.

Airbnb has announced the winners of the very first national Host Awards 2022.

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And HMS Owl, in the Highlands, won the Most Unique Stay.

Set in the grounds of a former RAF control tower in Tain, near Inverness, which was built in the 1940s, the semi-circular tin hut has been transformed into a boutique holiday home for up to four guests.

The control tower was bought by husband and wife Justin Hooper and Charlotte Seddon, who renovated the disused four-storey building and turned it into a trendy family home.

And in the grounds of the upgraded military unit is the Nissen Hut, which sleeps four. It boasts a cosy, warm living space and kitchen and a large en-suite bedroom, as well as log burners.

There’s also an outdoor wood fired hottub available for rent if yoou want to make your stay luxurious. And it’s in the perfect location for exploring the area, just off the iconic North Coast 500 route.

The awards singled out host Charlotte, who relocated from London to the Highlands, for her simple, classic restoration, which they branded ‘a passion project’ and which was inspired by industrial loft spaces but maintained the integrity and strength of the original building.

Amanda Couples, General Manager for Northern Europe at Airbnb, said: “Local Hosts are the backbone of the Airbnb community and to have this moment to recognise those who go above and beyond is a real honour.

“Hosts act as ambassadors for the community, and it’s inspiring to see the tremendous effort they put in to offer something to suit different styles, tastes and budgets and ensure that their guests have a truly magical and memorable stay.

“Being a Host is not just about sharing a special place with others; hosting also provides an opportunity to earn additional income to combat the rising cost of living.”

Meanwhile,  Bracadale Views Shepherds Hut, hosted by Rachel and Colin King, won the best rural stay in the awards.

Colin and his partner retired to the Isle of Skye after living in the city, but missed the connections they used to form when hosting. They created their Shepherd’s Hut to be an inviting listing for those looking for a slower pace of life.

The beautiful hut enjoys breathtaking 360 degree views of The Cuillins and MacLeod’s Tables mountain ranges on Skye, as well as the stunning Loch Bracadale.

The accommodation itself, which sleeps two, has harming sheep themed decor and is described as ‘bijoux’ coming in at 20ft long by 8ft wide. 

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