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Pennan Inn tenants announce they are set to leave when lease ends


By Kyle Ritchie

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The tenants of the Pennan Inn BnB & Gallery have announced they are set to leave when their current lease ends.

In an online post they said that their lease will end on April 1 and, despite the option to purchase, they will not be continuing on.

Accommodation and the Aurora tours which they have become known for are set to continue until mid-March.

The Pennan Inn Bnb & Gallery tenants have announced they are set to leave.
The Pennan Inn Bnb & Gallery tenants have announced they are set to leave.

The post from Pennan Inn BnB & Gallery's Monika Focht said: "After careful consideration and heavy hearts, we've decided to bid farewell to Pennan, including our beloved Pennan Inn BnB & Gallery.

"The past four years have been a journey that began when we left our house and jobs in Germany in 2020 to fulfill our long-held dream of living in Scotland.

"Arriving in the midst of the first lockdown, we were filled with dreams and hope. Joy and pride overwhelmed us as we dared to undertake something few people do – a complete transformation of our lives.

"From being an educator, postman and students, we became Bed and Breakfast hosts. What an adventure – what a change!

"We invested everything – our energy, love, and unwavering passion. Proudly and wholeheartedly, we brought the Northern Lights back into conversation, putting Pennan in headlines, press and even on television.

"We designed and created our own Northern Lights alarm, unique to us and still unmatched throughout Scotland.

"Suddenly, Pennan was busy even in winter, and we can proudly say that our tiny BnB with Aurora tours quickly gained recognition.

"However, our efforts and ideas faced scepticism within the local community. We experienced some unpleasant incidents that I won't delve into at this moment, but they ultimately led us to a point where it's time to draw a line.

"Sometimes it's better to accept what cannot be changed and bravely start anew.

"Contrary to local assumptions, we are 'only' tenants here. Our lease ends on April 1, and despite the option to purchase, we've decided to decline due to the challenges we've experienced within the community.

"Pennan as a place has given us many wonderful moments and impressions that are deeply engraved in our souls.

"We've enjoyed living in harmony with nature, especially the sea. Countless photos tell our unique and special journey, becoming a part of our life here.

"What started as a desire to see the Northern Lights once in a lifetime has become so much more. As dedicated Aurora Hunters, we will continue to chase the magical lights in the night sky.

"Our journey continues – the destination unknown, but one thing is certain: We remain in Scotland, dreaming our dream, for it is not over. We love this beautiful land and look forward to everything that lies ahead!

"In our tiny BnB, we welcomed guests from around the world, many arrived as strangers and left as friends.

"Today, we cherish a vast network of wonderful people who have accompanied us and hopefully will continue to do so.

"Until mid-March, we're still offering rooms and Aurora tours. So, for those planning to witness the Aurora dance, now is the last chance to book one of the few remaining rooms – as this is the last time we'll offer it in this form.

"For everyone booking now, our Inhouse Aurora Alarm is included for free! (only for bookings through our website)."


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