Living it up in the highlands

THREE Irish businessmen who recently bought a relatively run down hotel in the heart of Scotland are in the process of restoring the property to its former five-star glory.

Atholl Palace, in Pitlochry, Perthshire, is a traditional Victorian Spa hotel with stunning views of the Highlands from its impressive grounds.

When purchased by businessmen Frank Latchford, Jim Staunton and Fionn MacCumbhaill, it had been listed as a two star hotel, down three from the five star status it once enjoyed. The new owners have already managed to secure a higher rating and intend to continue refurbishing and adding facilities to further increase its standing in the Scottish hotel industry.