The tranquil community of Pitlochry, nestled within the scenic expanse of Highland Perthshire, is facing the imminent closure of a truly unique establishment. Saorsa 1875, celebrated as the United Kingdom’s inaugural exclusively vegan hotel, has announced its decision to cease operations after an impressive seven-year run.
Situated elegantly on East Moulin Road, this distinctive 11-bedroom boutique hotel embarked on its journey in 2018 under the dedicated ownership of Sandra McLaren-Stewart. It quickly carved out a significant niche, becoming a beacon and welcoming sanctuary for the vegetarian and vegan communities not only across Scotland but far beyond. The hotel’s ethos was deeply rooted in a commitment to compassion, sustainability, and the profound joy derived from plant-based living, principles that resonated strongly with its clientele. A Culinary and Cultural Landmark in Perthshire
From its inception, Saorsa 1875 transcended the traditional hotel experience. It was conceived as a vibrant hub where ethical living and luxurious hospitality converged seamlessly. Over its seven years, the culinary team at Saorsa 1875 achieved a remarkable feat, serving more than 125,000 plant-based dinners, a testament to their innovative approach and the growing appetite for vegan cuisine. These culinary offerings quickly gained acclaim, challenging preconceived notions about plant-based dining and establishing a high standard for quality and creativity in the hospitality sector.
The hotel’s pioneering spirit and commitment to its values did not go unnoticed. It attracted considerable attention from both national and international media, leading to a surge in interest and guest bookings. Its reputation even drew a number of notable personalities, including acclaimed film stars and celebrities such as Alan Carr, who sought out its unique blend of ethical luxury. This heightened profile further cemented its status as a trailblazer in sustainable tourism within the picturesque landscape of Perth and Kinross. Navigating Challenges and Embracing New Horizons
The journey for Saorsa 1875 was not without its adversities. Like many businesses in recent years, the hotel navigated through a period marked by a major recession, the formidable challenges posed by soaring energy costs, and the unprecedented global impact of a worldwide pandemic. Despite these significant hurdles, the dedicated team persevered, managing to not only survive but to thrive, a testament to their resilience and unwavering commitment to their vision.
The announcement of the closure, conveyed by the Saorsa 1875 team, indicated that the decision was made because it felt like “the right time for us.” This reflective sentiment underscores a natural progression for the owners, who expressed an eagerness to “follow new paths and new avenues to explore.” The hotel had, in fact, been placed on the market for approximately £950,000 in May of the previous year, with the understanding that operations would continue until a suitable buyer was secured.
While a specific final closure date remains unconfirmed, the outpouring of gratitude from the owners towards their loyal guests and extraordinary team highlights the deep connections forged throughout their tenure. They expressed heartfelt thanks to everyone who contributed to making their ambitious dream a tangible reality, hoping that their bold venture had served as a powerful catalyst and “just the beginning” for the broader vegan movement.
The departure of Saorsa 1875 will undoubtedly leave a noticeable void in Pitlochry’s vibrant hospitality scene and the wider Perthshire region. However, its legacy as a pioneer in ethical, plant-based luxury will continue to inspire, encouraging further growth and innovation within the local tourism and culinary sectors that are so vital to the region’s appeal.
Situated elegantly on East Moulin Road, this distinctive 11-bedroom boutique hotel embarked on its journey in 2018 under the dedicated ownership of Sandra McLaren-Stewart. It quickly carved out a significant niche, becoming a beacon and welcoming sanctuary for the vegetarian and vegan communities not only across Scotland but far beyond. The hotel’s ethos was deeply rooted in a commitment to compassion, sustainability, and the profound joy derived from plant-based living, principles that resonated strongly with its clientele. A Culinary and Cultural Landmark in Perthshire
From its inception, Saorsa 1875 transcended the traditional hotel experience. It was conceived as a vibrant hub where ethical living and luxurious hospitality converged seamlessly. Over its seven years, the culinary team at Saorsa 1875 achieved a remarkable feat, serving more than 125,000 plant-based dinners, a testament to their innovative approach and the growing appetite for vegan cuisine. These culinary offerings quickly gained acclaim, challenging preconceived notions about plant-based dining and establishing a high standard for quality and creativity in the hospitality sector.
The hotel’s pioneering spirit and commitment to its values did not go unnoticed. It attracted considerable attention from both national and international media, leading to a surge in interest and guest bookings. Its reputation even drew a number of notable personalities, including acclaimed film stars and celebrities such as Alan Carr, who sought out its unique blend of ethical luxury. This heightened profile further cemented its status as a trailblazer in sustainable tourism within the picturesque landscape of Perth and Kinross. Navigating Challenges and Embracing New Horizons
The journey for Saorsa 1875 was not without its adversities. Like many businesses in recent years, the hotel navigated through a period marked by a major recession, the formidable challenges posed by soaring energy costs, and the unprecedented global impact of a worldwide pandemic. Despite these significant hurdles, the dedicated team persevered, managing to not only survive but to thrive, a testament to their resilience and unwavering commitment to their vision.
The announcement of the closure, conveyed by the Saorsa 1875 team, indicated that the decision was made because it felt like “the right time for us.” This reflective sentiment underscores a natural progression for the owners, who expressed an eagerness to “follow new paths and new avenues to explore.” The hotel had, in fact, been placed on the market for approximately £950,000 in May of the previous year, with the understanding that operations would continue until a suitable buyer was secured.
While a specific final closure date remains unconfirmed, the outpouring of gratitude from the owners towards their loyal guests and extraordinary team highlights the deep connections forged throughout their tenure. They expressed heartfelt thanks to everyone who contributed to making their ambitious dream a tangible reality, hoping that their bold venture had served as a powerful catalyst and “just the beginning” for the broader vegan movement.
The departure of Saorsa 1875 will undoubtedly leave a noticeable void in Pitlochry’s vibrant hospitality scene and the wider Perthshire region. However, its legacy as a pioneer in ethical, plant-based luxury will continue to inspire, encouraging further growth and innovation within the local tourism and culinary sectors that are so vital to the region’s appeal.