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AN early view of a “game-changing” new hotel at Inverness Airport has confirmed its status as a valuable addition to the local hospitality sector.

Although still some eight weeks away from opening its doors to guests, general manager Ina Davies led visitors, including Inverness Chamber of Commerce chief executive Stewart Nicol and Inverness Airport manager Graeme Bell, on a hard-hat tour of the 130-bedroom Courtyard by Marriott hotel.

Situated just two minutes walk away from the Airport terminal, the visitors were able to take a look at some of the twin and kingsize double bedrooms, including some with sofa-beds which can accommodate up to two adults and two children, which are ready for their first guests.

There was also a chance to see some of the public areas under construction, including the bar and restaurant area, and a custom meeting room for up to 14 delegates.

Other features include air conditioning throughout, including the kitchen, and full length triple-glazed windows, allowing guests to enjoy the view or watch aircraft land and take-off without being disturbed by engine noise. The hotel, which will open with a soft launch in November, will employ around 40 staff.

Mr Bell was impressed by his new neighbour.

“It will be a game-changer,” he said.

“It will make a massive difference. It will help facilitate the early morning departures, which currently begin at 6.20am, and with a two hour check in time, this will be great for local people flying out, but also for tourists as well.”

Ms Davies, the former general manager at Holiday Inn Express Inverness, said it was a privilege to lead the opening of a new hotel.

“It’s the most amazing feeling to be able to start from scratch with a new team and to be able to assist in the design,” she said.

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