Shortlist Announced!
We’re proud to reveal the shortlist for the Highlands and Islands Thistle Awards 2026 – celebrating the very best of our region’s tourism and hospitality industry.
These prestigious awards are designed to recognise, highlight, and reward excellence across the sector, showcasing the exceptional businesses and individuals who go above and beyond to deliver outstanding visitor experiences throughout the Highlands and Islands.
This year, there are 15 awards covering the many facets of our vibrant tourism industry. The winners will be announced at our celebratory Awards Ceremony and Dinner, taking place on Friday 9th October 2026 at the Kingsmills Hotel in Inverness, the capital and heart of the Highlands.
We’re proud to work in partnership with the Scottish Thistle Awards. Each of our category winners – with the exception of the Highland Ambassador – will automatically progress as finalists to the Scottish Thistle Awards National Final in November 2026.
Explore the shortlist below and join us in celebrating the inspiring achievements of our local tourism champions.
Best Accommodation or Unique Stay
Boloquoy Victorian Farm & Watermill
Best Bar or Pub
Best Community Tourism & Events Initiative
Glenurquhart Highland Gathering & Games
Best Eating Experience
Knipoch House Hotel – Sonas Collection
Best Hotel
Knipoch House Hotel – Sonas Collection
Best Outdoor or Adventure Experience
Shetland Seabird Tours – Noss Boat
Best Self-Catering or Exclusive Use
Best Visitor Attraction
Seabirds-and-Seals – The Original Noss Boat
Shetland Seabird Tours – Noss Boat
Climate Action
Winner announced on the evening
Highland Ambassador
Winner announced on the evening
Inclusion Award
High Life Highland, Inverness Botanic Gardens
Seabirds-and-Seals – The Original Noss Boat
The Singleton of Glen Ord Distillery
Individual of the Year
Emma Harrison, Visit Inverness Loch Ness
Sine MacKellaig Davis, Road to the Isles
Innovation Award
Outdoor Access Trust for Scotland
Outstanding Cultural Event or Festival
Seachdain na Gàidhlig, World Gaelic Week
Rising Star
Drew Moody, Highland Coast Hotels
The Categories
Review the categories and criteria for the 2026 Awards.
Become Sponsors
The Awards are only possible with the valued support of our wonderful sponsors. Contact us to become a sponsor in 2026.
Meet The Board
Take a minute to meet the amazing people behind the awards.
Ambassadors
View the winners of out HITA Ambassador Award.
2025 HITA Award winners
View our 2025 HITA Award winners.
Gala Dinner
The evening reflects exemplary excellence achieved throughout the industry.
Responsible Tourism
Driving the sustainability of this picturesque corner of Scotland is the tourism and hospitality industry
Title Sponsor
Media Sponsors
Category Sponsors
Supporters
