Argyll & the Isles is home to many women whose passion for welcoming visitors to Argyll shapes this beautiful corner of Scotland as much as our picturesque coastlines and wild mountains. Today, we would like to celebrate a range of those fantastic women for International Women’s Day 2023 (IWD2023).
IWD has occurred for well over a century, with the first IWD gathering in 1911 supported by over a million people. Today, IWD belongs to all groups collectively everywhere, and celebrates the social, economic, cultural, and political achievements of women.
Why not join us in honouring the wonderful women across your own organisations, households and businesses by sharing their story across your channels using #IWD2023
For more information visit International Women's Day 2023.
Meet the Leadership Crew at Portavadie
Meet the powerhouse of female leaders behind Portavadie.
Portavadie is a stunning holiday destination on the shores of Loch Fyne. Offering a range of amenities such as restaurants, spa facilities and shops to its guests. A visit to Portavadie is a guarantee for relaxation and adventure. Surrounded by the spectacular landscapes of the Cowal Peninsula, choose between a spa treatment and swim in the outdoor heated infinity pool or hiring a bike or kayak to explore the coastline with the wind in your hair.
The leadership crew at Portavadie has a number of very influential women. Carol Jalgielko is the Portavadie Director and one of the visionaries behind the development of the Portavadie so many enjoy today. Avril Vernon, Spa and Leisure Manager, leads a team of 12, delivering amazing experiences and memories to our guests and a key member of our leadership team – not to forget that she’s often participating in charity swimming events and is a member of the Coast Guard! Flori Sandulescu, Accounts Manager, joined the business in 2011 as a Housekeeping crew, and now heads Accounts and Retail department. Not only is she an expert in all things systems but Flori also recently attained her UK citizenship and became a mum in 2022. Congratulations!
Kiki studied HR at Uni and now heads up our People and Culture Department which focusses on attracting and retaining the amazing people that deliver the guest experience. Alison Mullholland, Reception and Events Manager, has grown with the business, starting within the Housekeeping Crew. Living in Tighnabruaich Alison has all the local knowledge and inside track on all the local events and best places to visit. Lorna Wilson, another local superstar, joined the Housekeeping Crew in 2018, now heads up a crew of 8 plus working with our external cleaning contractor Out Of Your Hands, headed up by another great women, Marie McCuaig. Lorna`s attention to detail is legendary, keeping our guest accommodation looking immaculate.
If you want to meet some of those ladies yourself, book a stay at Portavadie this spring.
Meet Emily of Tartan Road
Emily is passionate about helping you have the best holiday in Scotland.Image credit:Johannes Woolard
Emily runs the bespoke travel agency Tartan Road from Oban. She specialises in designing and arranging bespoke luxury trips to Scotland since 2020. Here’s whys she founded her businesses:
I founded The Tartan Road in 2020 after spotting an opportunity to design, arrange and support bespoke luxury trips to Scotland. I love helping people enjoy and appreciate Scotland all year round and I think it's important to spread demand by showcasing some of the less-visited parts of this beautiful country. I've always wanted to run my own business, but starting up just as the pandemic hit was very difficult. I'm really proud that we survived and it's wonderful to be welcoming visitors from around the world!
Are you planning a trip to Scotland this year? Get in touch with Emily to arrange your dream holiday to Argyll & the Isles.
Plan your trip to Argyll & the Isles with Tartan Road. Image credit:Matt Buckley Photography
Meet Lisa of the Whistlefield Inn
Lisa and her husband came to the West Coast of Scotland 15 years ago for the first time and instantly fell in love. After many years of holidaying in Argyll, they took the plunge, sold their hotel business and moved themselves, four children and two Great Danes 499 miles north to Argyll. They have never looked backed!
Drop by the Whistlefield Inn in Cowal for delicious food, friendly service & stunning views.
They now run the popular Whistlefield Inn close to Dunoon in Cowal. Here’s what Lisa says about the experience of running an Inn:
I love the day to day business of running a traditional, homely drover's inn but my passion and indulgence is in events. I'm an absolute sucker for getting carried away in the joy of a proposal, the celebration of a wedding and friends and families coming together to appreciate each other. These days a bit of lateral thinking is needed to survive challenging times and its great fun coming up with new events and networking with the local talent that Cowal and Argyll is oozing with.
It is safe to say that the Whistlefield Inn is a great choice for your next celebration. Make sure to head over to their Facebook page to discover any upcoming events and activities.
Meet the Women of Wild About Argyll
Meet team Wild About Argyll! Social Media Manager Lara, PR Consultant Kirsty, Member Manager Caroline, CEO Cathy and Travel Trade Expert Yvonne (from left to right).
The Wild About Argyll mainly all female operational team, have a deep passion for Argyll & the Isles. Our leading lady, CEO Cathy Craig, has worked within Scottish tourism for a decade and has been an advocate for the region from day one. She’s also an ambassador for Women’s Enterprise Scotland (WES), which delivers expert, needs-based business support to enable women-owned businesses across Scotland to fulfil their aspirations, and unlock an £8.8bn economic potential to boost the economy. Women's Enterprise Scotland (wescotland.co.uk)
“I chose to work full time in the Tourism sector because of its vibrant business leaders and the opportunity to work with businesses creating special memories for visitors. I enjoy being part of a strong cohort of smart, hardworking, innovative female leaders and recognise and celebrate the economic and social impact they have.” Cathy Craig
Caroline & Lara are responsible for providing you with all the inspiration and information you need to plan a perfect trip to Argyll & the Isles. Head to our Facebook or Instagram for hidden gems, local information and stunning photos.