Highlands & Islands Thistle Awards

Celebrating Success

Once a year, those in Highland tourism get together to toast achievement and to recognise excellence. The HITA Ceremony is, on the one hand, a great party night and on the other, a moment to stop, take stock and focus with pride on what’s important in Highland tourism.

The HITA Awards are organised by the industry for the industry. The commitment, enthusiasm, and time – given voluntarily – by our board of directors; a group of respected business and tourism leaders from the Highlands and Islands, has developed the Awards into the acclaimed event that it is today.

The 2026 Awards will be launched in March, culminating in a gala dinner and awards ceremony in October. If you are involved in our region’s tourism industry then these awards are for you!

Shortlisted companies gain a prestigious accolade, which can be used for considerable marketing, media and commercial advantage. What’s more, if you win many of the categories link automatically to shortlist you to the National Thistle Awards

View 2025 winners here

Following their success at HITA, our regional winners went on to represent the Highlands and Islands as finalists at the Scottish Thistle Awards National Final in November 2025, showcasing the exceptional quality and world-class hospitality our area is renowned for. We’re proud to share that they brought home five national titles.

National Award Winners:

• Best Eating Experience: Ninth Wave Restaurant

• Employer of the Year: The Torridon

• Best Visitor Attraction: Highland Wildlife Park

• Best B&B or Guest House Experience: Ardtorna Luxury B&B

The crowning achievement of the night was Marina Huggett, our regional Highland Ambassador winner, who received the coveted Silver Thistle Award, the evening’s top honour, for her outstanding contribution to Scottish tourism.