New operators Twinflower move in at Glenmore Campsite

The new operators of the strath's busiest campsite have moved in today.

Twinflower was awarded the long-term lease for Glenmore Campsite by owners Forestry and Land Scotland in the Autumn.

Brian Fulton, Director for Twinflower said: “We are extremely excited to finally get on-site and to begin to identify priority areas for investment.

"The site is now open to seasonal visitors and we will begin taking short stay bookings from early next week.

“The team has also commenced a programme of local stakeholder meetings which will continue over the next few months”.

“Our head of operations is now on site and his immediate focus is on local recruitment as the previous team had unfortunately taken a decision to remain with the outgoing tenant, and are transferring to a site with them in England.

"We fully understand their reasons and wish them all the best.”

The new dedicated independent outdoor business has been established by the management team behind the multi-award-winning Hold Fast Entertainment Company.

It is best known for The Garage – which opened in 1994 and is described as Scotland’s biggest nightclub – and sister venue Cathouse Rock Club.

The new operator has not run a campsite in the past but points out that they have more than 30 years of experience in running hospitality and leisure businesses across Scotland.

Subject to their consultation, Twinflower will embark on an initial three-year sustainable investment programme likely to include:

• additional play facilities and new community hub.

• Improved and fully accessible tent, caravan, and motorhome pitches to promote the outdoors to all.

• A new simplified booking and customer service system.

• Enhanced shower facilities and amenities.

• Wifi connectivity and sustainable measures to manage energy and waste.

Donald Macleod is the majority shareholder and managing director for Hold Fast Entertainment Company. He was awarded an MBE for services to music and charity – through his work with music therapy charity, Nordoff Robbins – in 2020.

He is a member of the Scottish Tourism Alliance and vocal supporter of the tourism and hospitality trade.

The campsite will be managed locally supported by fellow shareholder and director Brian Fulton and the wider Hold Fast team.

A community bid by Aviemore and Glenmore Community Trust was not even short-listed by FLS from the 11 tenders for the lease – causing much frustration locally.

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