The serene Lodge on the Loch, nestled on the outskirts of Aboyne, has been a beacon of hospitality and relaxation for years. Owned by Derek and Jean McCulloch, this picturesque hotel has faced a tumultuous journey as the McCullochs have grappled with the harsh realities of running a business that has struggled to stay afloat. Their recent plea to convert the hotel into a house sheds light on the challenges they have faced and the tough decisions they have had to make to secure their future.
A Labor of Love Turns into a Struggle
The Lodge on the Loch, once a humble golf clubhouse, transformed into a luxurious guesthouse with 15 bedrooms, a restaurant, a spa, and even a two-bedroom property for the owners back in 2011. However, despite their best efforts, the McCullochs have found themselves at a crossroads. The beauty of the location, while breathtaking, has also posed a challenge as Aboyne is not considered a hotspot for tourists. This, coupled with the lodge’s size making it difficult to manage as a family-run operation, has put immense strain on the McCullochs.
Derek McCulloch’s Last Stand
Desperation led Derek McCulloch to make a heartfelt plea to the council to reclassify the Lodge on the Loch as a house. In a moving message to the councillors, he revealed the sacrifices he and his wife had made to keep the business afloat. Working tirelessly without pay, shouldering the burden of management, cheffing, and maintenance, the McCullochs poured their hearts into the lodge. The looming prospect of closure in spring 2025, regardless of a sale, was a harsh reality they had to face. The financial burden of hiring additional staff to ease their workload would have only accelerated the lodge’s demise. Mr. McCulloch’s poignant plea struck a chord with the council, who finally approved his request to convert the hotel into a house.
A New Chapter for Lodge on the Loch
With the council’s approval, the Lodge on the Loch now stands at a pivotal moment in its history. What was once a thriving hotel could soon become a luxurious home for someone with the vision and resources to undertake the transformation. As the McCullochs prepare to bid farewell to their beloved lodge, a new chapter awaits for this scenic property. While the decision to convert the hotel may mark the end of an era, it also signifies a fresh beginning for the Lodge on the Loch and the promise of a new life as a private residence.
In conclusion, the journey of the Lodge on the Loch, from a bustling guesthouse to a potential private home, is a testament to the resilience and determination of its owners. Derek and Jean McCulloch’s unwavering commitment to their business, despite the odds stacked against them, paints a poignant picture of the challenges faced by small business owners in the hospitality industry. As the Lodge on the Loch prepares to embark on a new chapter, the legacy of its warm hospitality and stunning views will live on, etched in the memories of those who have had the pleasure of experiencing its charm.
