Kate Preston

Where are you from?
I am from Cape Town, South Africa and moved to the Isle of Harris, Scotland in 2007. I lived on the Isle of Harris until I moved to the Isle of Skye in March 2020.

How are you finding the job so far?
The past few years have been very challenging for the hospitality industry post-covid but I am thankful to have an incredible team of talented people as well as lovely locals, who have made me feel right at home since I started here, and I feel excited and ready to take on any challenge we may face this coming year.

What’s the best part of your job?
I have been working in hospitality for the past 26 years, first as a waitress in my parent’s restaurant, then I trained and worked as a chef for a few years and during my time on Harris I had the pleasure of working for the Isle of Harris Distillery for 5 years before moving on to Hotel Management. I love that no two days are the same and you meet so many wonderful people from all over the world. I love everything about Hotel Eilean Iarmain from the very supportive and caring owner, Lucilla Noble, to my amazing team who make my job a pleasure and lastly the amazing setting we are blessed to have. It’s an honour to be an ambassador for such an incredible place.

How do you spend your days off?
I’m a massive animal lover, so enjoy taking my two dogs Odie and Mylo out for walks and spending quality time with my partner Chris and daughter Megan. We also love to go on road trips exploring the many wonderful places Scotland has to offer. I am also in the process of learning Gaelic as I would love to be fluent one day.

Best view on Skye?
Without a shadow of a doubt (and I’m not just saying this!) it has to be the views we have from right here at the hotel. No matter the weather the landscapes are just breathtaking, and I plan to get out with my camera soon!

Whisky or Gin?
Am I allowed to say both? Gin in the summer is probably the most refreshing drink and you can’t beat a good dram of whisky in the winter to warm you up.

Favourite Gaelic word?
It would have to be: Slàinte, whilst raising a dram of my favourite whisky!