NEW Natural Retreats John O'Groats to Open August 2012

4th July 2012

Following a huge £6 million regeneration project of the area, luxury self-catering experts Natural Retreats are delighted to announce the opening of 23 standalone Residences, plus a brand new Outfitters activity service and co-operative Storehouse in the stunning wilderness of John O'Groats opening this August.

With British patriotism at an all-time high and such a unique natural environment waiting to be discovered right here on our door-step, there's never been a better time to holiday at home in the UK.

John O'Groats has some of the most amazing wildlife and natural beauty so was the ideal spot for the next Natural Retreats venture, who have worked hard alongside key partners such as Highlands and Islands Enterprise, The Highland Council, Heritage GB and members of the local community to help John O'Groats establish itself as premium tourist destination. Not forgetting its historic roots, Natural Retreats will also be renovating the classic John O'Groats hotel which this year will be celebrating its 125th anniversary and transforming the adjacent land.

The location
Located on the most northern tip of the United Kingdom, Natural Retreats John O'Groats is situated in a tiny hamlet set amongst some of the most sensational and extreme landscapes combining awe-inspiring coastal stacks, dramatic cliffs, forests and white sandy beaches. Brimming with wildlife, guests can expect to see the largest population of Harbour and Grey seals and an array of birdlife including Guillemot, Kittiwakes and most famously Puffins. Forget indoor aquariums this summer as the coast of John O'Groats is home to the ocean's most beautiful sea creatures including minke whales, dolphins, porpoises, basking sharks and even killer whales.

The accommodation
The Natural Retreats Residences have been designed in the style of the award-winning luxury eco-lodges at their Yorkshire Dales site and have been underpinned by strong sustainable principles with the use of locally sourced materials such as Caithness stone, Scottish Larch timber and sedum roofs. Modern, open-plan living including a huge expanse of glass allows the magnificence of the natural surroundings to be as much a part of the luxury experience as the exquisite attention to detail showcased in the interiors.

The Outfitters
Natural Retreats Outfitters provides everything needed for a range of outdoor activities, helping guests with equipment, clothing and supplies for the wide range of activities available at John O'Groats.

Professional guides will be offering guests the ride of their life thanks to the new Natural Retreats RIB boat. Wrap up warm, grab your camera and head out for a day of wildlife watching around the north Scotland waters.

The Outfitters will also be offering guided hikes, wreck dives, historical tours, fishing, horse-riding, geo-caching (real-life GPS treasure-hunting) and even whisky appreciation sessions! The Outfitters will also stock everything you could need for a holiday exploring the great outdoors. As a champion of British manufacturers, Natural Retreats Outfitters includes equipment and clothing from top British brands such as Hunter, Antler and Highland 2000.

The Storehouse
As part of the regeneration project, Natural Retreats has worked hard to aid sustainability in the local economy. The opening in August will include an on-site co-operative shop selling produce and goods from local businesses including Old Pulteney Malt Scotch Whisky, freshly baked bread and speciality cheese. Local residents will also provide the goodies found in every complimentary welcome hamper!

The Concierge Service
Guests will also have full access to the unrivalled Natural Retreats personal concierge service, the first of its kind in the UK market. This team of dedicated travel professionals can personalise each holiday experience, providing advice and expertise to ensure every holiday is perfectly tailored to each guest.

"It has and will continue to be our aim to develop luxury self-catering accommodation in areas of outstanding natural beauty, and John O'Groats with its stunning headlands and place in history is the perfect destination for a holiday experience that will stay with guests forever," comments Natural Retreats founder, Matt Spence.

*Special Introductory Offer
*Natural Retreats (www.naturalretreats.com; 0844 384 3166) is offering a 35% discount for 3 night stays - £249 for up to 6 guests sharing and a 45% discount for 7 night stays - £499 for up to 6 guests sharing. *Bookings to be made by 30th September 2012, discount not combinable with any other offer