A Scottish hotel group is responding to VisitScotland’s call for tourism businesses to tap into the growing trend for ‘workcations’ to boost the industry – by encouraging remote workers to set up their workstations in some of the country’s most breath-taking locations.
As hybrid working becomes the new normal, Crerar Hotels, which boasts seven four- and- five-star properties across Scotland, is calling on keen travellers to satisfy their wanderlust by taking their to-do list to some more adventurous and idyllic locations.
Crerar Hotels are offering a change of scenery with stunning views to boost productivity, followed by relaxing environments to truly switch off when the working day is done. Guests can benefit from working in nature, sitting by a loch or the coast, rather than isolated in an office.
A study from Working Health Lives Scotland showed that 30% of employees in Scotland feel that their work negatively impacts their mental health, so Crerar Hotels are providing workers with a change in office environment which has been seen to quickly remove mental blocks and promote clear thinking.
Whether conducting Zoom calls in one of the meeting rooms, catching up with colleagues in one of the AA Rosette restaurants or working on the outdoor terraces in the fresh air, the hotel group has something for everyone. Guests can also combine a day of work with beach side yoga, countryside walks or a wild swim.
A recent Harris Poll said that 74% of remote workers say they would consider a workcation, a demand Crerar Hotels has seen in recent weeks, with a third of enquiries asking about four and five day stays in order to combine a trip for work and additional days for leisure.
Each Crerar Hotels property has offers in place for longer length stays to help balance work and travel – potentially giving workers the opportunity to see more of what Scotland has to offer without compromising too much annual leave allowance.
The call also follows hot on the heels of the hotel group’s unveiling the Crerar450 road trip route, which takes travellers to all seven of Crerar Hotels’ idyllic properties and guarantees keen adventurers the chance to explore famous towns and take in iconic landmarks.
Chris Wayne-Wills, CEO of Crerar Hotels, said, “Remote and home working has become the norm since we found ourselves in lockdown over a year ago and, with many companies looking to maintain that working model, it’s even more important that those working and living at home have the opportunity to truly escape and take full advantage of the flexibility of remote working.
“A workcation is the perfect way of getting a real change of scenery, which has been shown to improve staff wellbeing and improve productivity and creativity. Each of our hotels and inns prides itself on having a luxurious yet homely feel, and has everything remote workers need to get on with the job in a more relaxed environment.
“Our teams will keep the tea and coffee flowing, as well as sharing their unrivalled knowledge on how to truly unwind when logged off from the laptop. It also means that people can take an extended break without using up too much holiday allowance.
“Taking your laptop to within walking distance of the infamous Glencoe, for example, certainly beats moving from the dining room to the lounge at home – and the Crerar450 really is the ultimate commute. And when your annual leave or clocking off time kicks in, you can enjoy the finest food on offer or relax and unwind in a hot tub or pool – or with a spa treatment – to feel truly refreshed.”