Sonas Collection is thrilled to mark its 20th anniversary this year—a proud milestone for this family-run business rooted in the Highlands and Islands.
A passion project inspired by founders Ken Gunn and Anne Gracie-Gunn’s love of the sea and island life, what began in 2003 as a single gem on the Isle of Skye, Toravaig House, has grown into a celebrated collection of three hotels across Skye and the additional Knipoch House Hotel, in Oban.
Initially, Ken and Anne operated Toravaig as a boutique retreat alongside sailing excursions on their yacht, Solus. With Ken’s nautical expertise and Toravaig’s coastal charm, the couple hosted unforgettable adventures and weddings across the Sound of Sleat to the Small Isles and St. Kilda for over a decade.
In 2007, as demand grew, Anne and Ken expanded their portfolio with the addition of Duisdale House, a Victorian mansion just three miles from Toravaig.
After extensive renovations, Duisdale emerged as a beloved, character-rich hotel and went on to win Highlands and Islands Scottish Thistle Award for Scotland’s ‘Best Hotel Experience’ in 2023.
More recently, Duisadale was proudly named a winner of the Island and Coastal Category of Scotland’s Greatest Escape 2024.
In 2015, the Sonas Collection grew further with the addition of the iconic Skeabost, north of Portree. This expansion marked the entry of Anne’s daughter, Jen, and her family into the business, infusing the collection with the passion and dedication of a second generation.
In 2023, the Sonas Collection added Knipoch House Hotel, located just outside the picturesque town of Oban, offering guests a true gateway to the West Coast.
This year, Knipoch announced the launch of 1635, Scotland’s newest culinary experience, celebrating the hotel’s historic roots dating back to the 16th century. The name ‘Knipoch,’ derived from Norse for ‘hilly place,’ is a tribute to the region’s Viking influence.
Anne Gracie-Gunn, owner of Sonas Collection, said: “The past two decades have been a whirlwind. When we started 20 years ago, we envisioned running a small hotel and never anticipated the incredible growth we’ve experienced, adding three more properties to our portfolio.
“Inspired by our love for sailing the Hebridean seas and passion for sharing this part of the world with others, it’s been a pleasant surprise to see how far we’ve come.
“It’s been a joy to welcome guests from around the world and while there have been challenges along the way, we have always stayed true to our commitment to quality.
“Looking ahead, we plan to stabilise over the next year after a particularly busy year and a half in Oban with the opening of Knipoch House Hotel, then take a moment to reflect on what’s next. What I love most is that our best decisions have come from a simple lightbulb moment.”
With a team of 160 dedicated employees, the Sonas Collection remains deeply committed to its family-run ethos, fostering a supportive culture that prioritises the physical and mental wellbeing of its staff.
This focus on care and continuous development has been instrumental to the company’s growth over the past 20 years, ensuring a thriving team as the business evolves and celebrates this significant milestone.
Across two decades, the Sonas Collection has become known for creating exceptional guest experiences rooted in Highland heritage and environmental stewardship.
Among its many accolades, the Collection was recently awarded the 2023 Traveler’s Choice Best of the Best Award and continues to lead in sustainability. By working with local suppliers, offering locally-sourced menus, and championing eco-travel with initiatives like the Caledonian Sleeper partnership from London to the Hebrides, Sonas remains committed to reducing its carbon footprint.
The Sonas Collection is dedicated to honouring the spirit and beauty of the Highlands, crafting stays that immerse guests in local culture, warmth, and scenic wonder.
As they look toward the future, the family behind Sonas remains committed to preserving their distinctive hospitality legacy, ensuring that each visit is as memorable as the last.
For more information on Sonas Collection, please visit: https://sonascollection.com/
