A guide to enjoying a sustainable holiday in Scotland

Scotland is a magical place, full of gorgeous scenery, rugged coastlines and majestic mountains. Its sparse population and rolling countryside, paired with the ‘freedom to roam’ act, makes this country the perfect wonderland to explore for any outdoor-loving family. Whether you want to hike up Ben Nevis, the tallest mountain in the UK, or wander the many trails and waterways through glistening lochs and lush valleys – Scotland has it all.

When it comes to your accommodation, the lure of grand castles and beautiful estates is very real. But equally as wonderful are the many quaint shepherd’s huts, charming log cabins and lakeside lodges where you can enjoy a wholesome holiday being at one with nature. Simple, rustic living is the modus operandi here – think chopping wood to fuel your open fire, catching fresh fish, and enjoying the unspoilt views of the highlands. But how can we take care of the nature that we’re so lucky to enjoy on our holidays?

When it comes to your accommodation, the lure of grand castles and beautiful estates is very real. But equally as wonderful are the many quaint shepherd’s huts, charming log cabins and lakeside lodges where you can enjoy a wholesome holiday being at one with nature. Simple, rustic living is the modus operandi here – think chopping wood to fuel your open fire, catching fresh fish, and enjoying the unspoilt views of the highlands. But how can we take care of the nature that we’re so lucky to enjoy on our holidays?

Leave no trace

The best way to enjoy a sustainable holiday is to leave your destination exactly as you found it. The ‘leave no trace’ philosophy encompasses seven important principles, including not littering, leaving vegetation as undisturbed as possible and being considerate to others.
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Planning your routes can also help you pack sustainably, reducing food and plastic waste. By preparing ahead of time, you are able to only pack what you need. Be sure to also use refillable water bottles and avoid single use plastics. If you’re camping, set up on solid and durable ground at least 200 metres away from streams, rivers and lakes.

Walk or cycle

Whilst you may need to use motorised transport to reach Scotland, once you arrive try to explore via more eco-friendly means. Walking or cycling through the undulating countryside allows you to breathe in the fresh air and slow down, soaking in the impressive scenery and reaping all of the benefits of the great outdoors.

There are numerous hiking and cycling trails throughout all regions of this stunning country, which take you past majestic beaches, glistening natural waterways and through emerald valleys and dense forests. Some of the most awe-inspiring castles and houses can be found along popular routes, such as the Culzean Castle in Arran, built for the 10th Earl of Cassilis in the 1700s.

Protect the wildlife

Scotland has a wonderful array of wildlife, from adorable red squirrels to giant orca whales. But unfortunately, at least 25% of British native wildlife species are at risk of extinction. Whilst enjoying the idyllic natural landscapes of Scotland, be sure to leave any wildlife undisturbed. If you’re travelling with a canine companion, make sure to put them on a lead when exploring nature reserves, especially if they have a habit of diving into hedgerows and bushes to find nests.

It’s also important to protect our fauna and flora by not picking wildflowers and making a conscious effort to not damage the ground during your holiday. If you want to have an outdoor, open fire, be sure to follow safety guidelines to ensure you do so without harming the environment. Use an eco-friendly fire pit, and burn seasoned wood without the use of chemical fuels to keep your fireside evenings sustainable.

Back to basics

Scotland is the perfect place to calm your mind and explore incredible scenery at a slower pace. Follow these tips to ensure your holiday is a sustainable one, and enjoy going back to basics in the unspoilt beauty of this incredible country.