Tourism NI awards five stars to "truly memorable" mountain hideaway on the North Coast

The Botháns, which is spread over 13 acres and nestled in Binevenagh’s Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, was praised for providing an “outstanding commitment to guest hospitality”.

 

Two handcrafted cabins, located near Macosquin, offer curated luxury, embracing their stunning surroundings.

 

In awarding the five stars, Tourism NI Quality Grading Scheme assessment found the owners Rob and Lucy Oates had created an accommodation offering that is “serene and relaxing” with the two individually curated cabins located in “an exceptional rural setting”.

 

One of the cabins, Lir View, offers breathtaking panoramic views over the North Atlantic, while the other, The Hideaway, is nestled on the banks of The Botháns lake.

 

The assessment found the outdoor amenities to be “outstanding” with each unit featuring a private outdoor bath, high-quality exterior furniture and a firepit. The cabin facades were found to be “beautifully maintained” while the lighting creates “a warm, inviting welcome”.

 

Steven Kane, Senior Quality and Standards Advisor at Tourism NI, said: “Achieving five stars is a fantastic achievement for The Botháns and a testament to the exceptional quality and hospitality on offer.

 

“Nestled in a stunning rural setting, these beautifully expertly crafted cabins combine stylish design, outstanding facilities and a genuine commitment to guest comfort.

 

“The attention to detail throughout, from the interiors to the unique outdoor experiences, creates a truly memorable stay and showcases the very best of Northern Ireland’s tourism offering.”

 

Owner Lucy Oates said: “We are incredibly honoured to be awarded a five-star grading from Tourism NI for The Botháns. We wanted to create somewhere guests can have the time and space to relax, surrounded by the stunning Causeway Coast landscape.

 

“Each cabin was designed as a real opportunity to escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Every detail has been intentional, and wherever possible, we’ve worked with local businesses. It’s fantastic that Tourism NI have recognised that vision and agree that we’ve created something really special.

 

“As parents ourselves, we also wanted to ensure families could enjoy a luxury escape in nature too. That’s why we built our family cabin with its bespoke three-bed bunkroom. It’s been wonderful to see families, sometimes several generations, creating treasured memories on cabin adventure together.

 

“Thank you to the Tourism NI Quality Standards team, who have provided us with support, guidance and insight since we launched. It’s helped us to achieve this industry accolade.”

 

The Tourism NI Quality Grading Scheme is a mark of distinction and gives visitors a clear idea of the standards of accommodation, service and cleanliness that they can expect during their stay.   

 

The scheme is open to hotels, guest houses, B&Bs, self-catering, hostels and guest accommodation with businesses capable of achieving a grade of up to five stars.   Further information about the Quality Grading Scheme is available at Tourist Accommodation Quality Grading Scheme .