Edinburgh-based tour operator Rabbie’s has solidified its status as a global leader in travel, securing a prestigious double victory at the 2026 World Travel Awards. In a remarkable debut, the company was honored with the titles of “Europe’s Leading Group Tour Operator” and “Scotland’s Leading Tour Operator,” marking a triumphant first year of nomination for the small-group travel specialist.
The World Travel Awards, established in 1993, are widely regarded as the ultimate hallmark of industry excellence. Winners are determined through a rigorous selection process involving votes from both travel industry professionals and the global public. This latest accolade adds to an already impressive trophy cabinet for Rabbie’s, which earned the King’s Award for Enterprise for International Trade in 2025 and currently holds a coveted B Corp Certification.
Reflecting on the achievement, Hazel Rickett, CEO of Rabbie’s, expressed her immense pride in the team. “To win not one but two World Travel Awards in our first year of being nominated is something I’m incredibly proud of,” Rickett said. “These awards are voted for by the people who travel with us and work alongside us, so they mean a great deal to the whole team. Our guides and the team behind the scenes work so hard to give every customer a brilliant experience, and this recognition belongs to them.”
For Rickett, the regional win carried a particular sentiment. “Being named Scotland’s Leading Tour Operator is particularly special, because Scotland is where Rabbie’s started and it will always be home,” she added.
Since its inception, Rabbie’s has built its reputation on the “small-group” philosophy. By utilizing mini-coaches rather than traditional, large-scale transport, the company provides travelers with access to remote locations often inaccessible to larger tourist groups. This approach allows guests to traverse single-track roads in the Highlands, the west of Ireland, and the Swiss Alps, fostering a more intimate and authentic travel experience.
“There’s something really special about travelling in a small group,” said Rickett. “People arrive as strangers and leave as friends, and our guides get to know everyone by name. They love sharing the stories and history of the places we visit, and that personal touch is what our customers remember long after they’ve gone home.”
Following the successful European campaign, Rabbie’s has now been nominated for “World’s Leading Group Tour Operator” 2026. This nomination places the Scottish firm in direct competition with the largest and most prestigious travel companies on the planet.
As the company looks toward the global stage, voting for the World’s Leading Group Tour Operator category remains open to the public, with the window closing on October 30, 2026. With a track record of growth and a commitment to personal, immersive travel, Rabbie’s remains a company to watch as it continues to expand its reach across the UK, Ireland, and mainland Europe.
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