Eco-friendly Accommodation in Scotland
December 2017 | 37
It ’ s becoming easier and easier to be green , even when you ’ re on holiday . And better still , you needn ’ t forgo life ’ s little luxuries on an eco-friendly trip in Scotland , unless you fancy getting back to basics , of course .
Why should I choose eco-friendly accommodation ?
You can sleep soundly on holiday in the knowledge that you ’ ve picked green accommodation with high environmental and ethical standards . Chances are you won ’ t even notice much difference , but the planet will .
What is green tourism ?
Great news : regular accommodation , attractions , tour companies and tourism businesses are all reducing , re-using and recycling to make your holiday more sustainable .
Many of these eco-friendly places have a bronze , silver or gold award from Green Tourism for offering a good quality of service , working to minimise their energy and water consumption , and meeting various ecological requirements .
Green Tourism members also work to source produce , products and materials locally where possible and responsibly from ethical initiatives such as the Fairtrade movement .
What will picking Green Tourism accommodation mean for me ?
You ’ ll find a number of eco-friendly elements in your Green Tourism accommodation , each making a small contribution towards big improvements for the environment .
Stay in a hotel with low energy lightbulbs and eat home-grown vegetables in the restaurant , watch the birds feeding in the B & B ’ s wildlife garden , or find information on the nearest cycle hire companies in your self-catering lodge .
What do I need to do ?
Simply search for the Green Tourism logo , select and book accommodation and enjoy your holiday . The accommodation will make it easy for you to help the planet , if you want to . By using your towel twice before it ’ s laundered , or switching off lights when going out , you can really make a difference and help to save energy .
Glamping in Scotland
Camping , it isn ’ t for everyone . Do you dread the prospect of the uneven ground , the ‘ wild ’ animals , the soggy tent and the mysterious noises through the night ? Fear not , there is a truly comfortable way to enjoy the great outdoors , without the stresses of getting back to nature . It ’ s called glamping !
What is glamping ?
One of the most recent travel trends , this phenomenon combines a little slice of glamour and luxury with traditional camping . So , you may find yourself deep in the wilderness but your accommodation will provide you with sockets for hairdryers and iPods , a proper bed , a TV and a fridge to make your stay much more comfortable .
Glamping comes in many different forms , including : camping pods , wigwams , bell tents , treehouses , tipis and yurts . Your place to stay can vary from basic and comfortable to simply grand and luxurious .
Funky features & stunning Scottish scenery
If you go towards the higher end of the scale , your glamping retreat might even include some of these features :
• Hot tub .
• Comfortable beds and inviting rustic décor .
• Sauna .
• Wood burning stove .
• Underfloor heating .
You can go glamping deep in the heart of Scotland ’ s forests , on the bonnie banks of one of our stunning lochs and at several coastal and rural spots too . This type of holiday brings you much closer to the action , as many providers also offer activities , walks and cycle rides close to where you sleep .