Cairngorm Lodges and Cairngorm Bothies, two award-recognised, sustainability-led tourism businesses, have called for clarification from the Scottish Government following a significant increase in their rateable values under the latest revaluation.
The businesses, which provide low-impact, nature-based accommodation and support 10 rural jobs, experienced an increase in rateable value following the 2026 business rates re-evaluation assessment.
As a result, they would no longer qualify for reliefs including the Small Business Bonus Scheme and Transitional Relief, leading to a substantial rise in monthly business rates costs. Their monthly rates bill could increase by a staggering 618%.
Dr. Gordon Drummond, owner of Cairngorm Lodges and Cairngorm Bothies, said: “We recognise the importance of fair and regular revaluation.
"However, the scale and immediacy of this increase, combined with the loss of reliefs, raises important questions about how current policy affects small, sustainable tourism businesses operating in rural areas.
"We are seeking clarity and constructive dialogue to ensure policy intent aligns with commitments to sustainable tourism and rural employment.”
The businesses note that similar revaluation outcomes appear to be affecting other self-catering operators across Scotland and believe greater transparency would benefit the sector as a whole.
Cairngorm Lodges and Cairngorm Bothies have requested a meeting with the Scottish Government to better understand the assumptions underpinning the revised valuations and to discuss how unintended impacts on rural enterprises can be addressed.