The Journey Begins: Welcoming Our First Guests at Castleview Holiday Lodges

Welcoming Our First Guests: A Milestone for Castleview Holiday Lodges.

The journey to opening Castleview Holiday Lodges, set amidst the tranquil beauty of the Scottish Borders, was filled with anticipation and countless hours of preparation. The weeks leading up to our opening were a whirlwind of emotions—excitement intertwined with apprehension about whether our lodges would resonate with guests and meet their expectations. Final touches were added, and by mid-June 2023, we were eagerly awaiting our licensing approval to officially welcome guests as a self-catering accommodation.

The Final Countdown

The process of obtaining our license became a familiar routine, with Lynda becoming a well-known voice to the council office staff. Our partnership with Unique Cottages (UC) was instrumental during this time, as they too were in communication with the council on our behalf, eager to see the bookings they had lined up for us come to fruition.

The moment we received confirmation of our license, the reality of going live suddenly hit us. Despite the initial panic and second-guessing every detail, the decision to start welcoming guests immediately proved to be the right one. Our first bookings reflected the diverse appeal of our lodges, with guests including doctors from England, a writer/producer for CBS from America, and a teacher from England who has since become a regular visitor.

Castleview from the air

Castleview lunchtime views

Castleview cakes

Castleview front deck

Castleview lunchtime

Castleview breakfast

Castleview from the woods

The Arrival

The anticipation of our guests’ arrival brought a mix of nerves and excitement. Debating the best approach to welcoming them—whether to greet them personally or give them space to settle in—was a challenge. Ultimately, our guests guided us, setting the tone for our interactions. Cindy, in particular, offered a memorable experience as we helped her navigate the local area without a car, leading to an unexpected and enjoyable evening out.

Building Connections

What stands out from our opening is the opportunity to meet people from all walks of life and corners of the globe. Our guests have come from as far as Switzerland, France, and Saudi Arabia, each bringing their unique stories and enriching the tapestry of Castleview’s history.

Conclusion

The initial opening of Castleview Holiday Lodges was a defining moment in our journey, teaching us the importance of flexibility, hospitality, and the joy of connecting with our guests. It was a testament to our efforts and a reminder of why we embarked on this venture—to create a welcoming space for guests from around the world to explore the Scottish Borders. The nerves and sleepless nights were worth it, as they led to the fulfilling experience of hosting and forming new friendships.

Lynda, Gary, Sarah, Adam and Mark.

Welcoming Our First Guests