Looking for an unforgettable stay that actively supports sustainability? From wind-powered self-catering cottages to wildlife-friendly retreats, these six standout properties in Scotland are leading the way in eco-conscious stays.
The View at No 10 (Ardmyle) – Scottish Highlands
Green Tourism Silver Award
🌱 Sustainability Highlight: Refillable luxury toiletries from Scottish Fine Soaps, reducing plastic waste and lowering the carbon footprint.
Perched in the heart of Aviemore, The View at No 10 is a luxury two-bedroom apartment offering breathtaking views towards the Craigellachie National Nature Reserve. This stylish retreat kickstarted its sustainability journey with an easy yet effective swap – bulk-buying eco-friendly toiletries to cut down on single-use plastics. Now, the property is making significant strides in energy efficiency and waste reduction, ensuring that guests enjoy a comfortable, environmentally responsible stay in the Scottish Highlands.
Why You’ll Love It:
✔ Spectacular mountain views from every window, immersing you in Scotland’s highland beauty.
✔ Prime location in Aviemore – ideal for exploring the Cairngorms National Park.
✔ Accessible by train and within walking distance of local shops, restaurants, and walking and cycling routes.
Logie Newton Lodges – Aberdeen
Powered by the Wind
🌱 Sustainability Highlight: Onsite wind turbines generate renewable energy, making your stay eco-friendly.
Tucked away in a tranquil setting, Logie Newton Lodges seamlessly blend luxurious comfort with sustainability. These beautifully crafted lodges prioritise eco-conscious choices at every turn. Heating and air conditioning are powered by air-source heat pumps, reducing reliance on fossil fuels. The spacious decking is made from Russwood’s Scottish Larch, sourced within 100 miles and heat-treated for durability. Guests can unwind in nature while knowing their stay has a minimal environmental impact.
Why You’ll Love It:
✔ Surrounded by 65 acres of native woodland, home to ground-nesting birds, deer, and other wildlife.
✔ Dedicated wildflower meadows, hedgerows, and a pond, fostering biodiversity and pollinators.
✔ Eco-conscious partnerships, offering experiences like guided nature walks, photography sessions, massages, and reiki treatments.
Pinewood Steading – Scottish Highlands
Gold Green Tourism Award
🌱 Sustainability Highlight: Solar power, super insulation, and a locally sourced welcome basket.
At Pinewood Steading, sustainability isn’t just a feature – it’s the heart of the experience. Set in a peaceful, nature rich location, this eco-conscious self-catering property harnesses solar energy, high-performance insulation, and recycled materials to minimise its environmental impact. Guests are encouraged to slow down, observe, and connect with nature, to encourage a deeper appreciation for the world around them.
Why You’ll Love It:
✔ Wildlife at your doorstep – Two discreet wildlife cameras allow guests to enjoy stunning footage of local creatures in their natural habitat.
✔ Eco-inspired experiences – Get hands-on with foraging sessions, explore the woodland trails, or use the bird and animal spotting guides provided.
✔ Sustainability that inspires – Many guests leave with a new commitment to eco-friendly living, whether it’s switching to sustainable products or adopting greener habits at home.
Pinewood Steading proves that a self-catering holiday and a light footprint on the planet can go hand in hand.
Taigh Munro – Scottish Highlands
Powered by the Sun
🌱 Sustainability Highlight: Newly installed solar panels and energy-efficient heating systems.
Tucked away in the village of Aviemore in the Scottish Highlands, Taigh Munro is making great strides in sustainability, offering guests an eco-friendly retreat without compromising on comfort. A major eco-upgrade in early 2025 saw the installation of high-performance solar panels and an advanced heating system, cutting grid energy use by 50% in just one month. But sustainability here goes beyond energy – it’s about responsible travel, community support, and a deep respect for nature.
Why You’ll Love It:
✔ Low-impact travel made easy – Arrive by train or bus and explore the Highlands with scenic walking trails right from your doorstep.
✔ Eco-conscious comfort – Indulge in luxurious, sustainable toiletries from The Highland Soap Company, made with pure, natural ingredients.
✔ Supporting local communities – From world-class whisky distilleries to wildlife experiences and outdoor adventures, Taigh Munro champions local businesses, ensuring your stay benefits both you and the community.
Experience a Highland retreat where sustainability and comfort go hand in hand.
The Green House – Scottish Borders
A Gold Standard Eco Retreat
🌱 Sustainability Highlight: Solar panels, EV charger, on-site beehives, and a flourishing wildlife-friendly garden.
At The Green House, sustainability isn’t just a commitment – it’s a way of life. From harvesting rainwater to crafting eco-friendly cleaning products from natural ingredients, every aspect of your stay is designed with the environment in mind. Here, luxury meets responsibility, ensuring you can relax knowing your visit supports the local community and protects Scotland’s natural environment.
Why You’ll Love It:
✔ A taste of sustainability – Savor home-harvested honey and fresh eggs from free-range hens.
✔ Naturally clean & green – All cleaning products are eco-friendly, some even handmade from natural ingredients.
✔ Immerse in nature – Enjoy stargazing, bird-watching, and even the chance to witness the Northern Lights from the cosy covered decking area (if you are lucky!).
✔ Support local communities – Your stay directly contributes to local eco-initiatives, conservation efforts, and small businesses.
✔ Explore Ettrick Marshes – Discover one of Scotland’s largest wetland restoration projects, with volunteer days and ranger-led walks available.
At The Green House, you don’t just experience nature – you help protect it and are truly eco-friendly without compromise.
Where Stags Roar – Scottish Highlands
A Stay That Truly Cares
🌱 Sustainability Highlight: Solar panels, air-source heat pumps, bike storage, EV chargers, and a wildlife-friendly garden home to red squirrels.
At Where Stags Roar, sustainability is more than a commitment – it’s at the heart of everything they do. This eco-conscious business goes the extra mile to ensure guests enjoy a memorable stay while minimising their impact on the environment. With a collection of thoughtfully designed properties, including Carmen House, a stunning example of an unused commercial building transformed into a cosy, low-impact self-catering stay, Where Stags Roar is proving that comfort and sustainability can thrive together.
Why You’ll Love It:
✔ A business that truly cares – Every decision is made with the environment and guests in mind, ensuring a stay that feels good in every way.
✔ Step into nature – Walk or cycle straight from your doorstep on scenic, car-free trails.
✔ Wildlife at your doorstep – Help feed the iconic red squirrels that call the garden home.
✔ Designed for eco-conscious travel – Secure bike storage and easy access to public transport encourage greener journeys.
✔ Biodiversity in action – Wildlife ponds, pollinator-friendly gardens, and hedgehog hideaways make this a haven for nature.
From thoughtful eco-initiatives to a deep-rooted respect for Scotland’s landscapes, Where Stags Roar offers a stay where you can truly unwind – knowing you’re supporting a business that cares.
Make Your Next Holiday a Green One
Sustainability isn’t just a trend; it’s a necessity. Choosing an eco-conscious self-catering holiday in Scotland means reducing your footprint while supporting local communities and immersing yourself in nature and helping to protect Scotland’s natural landscapes responsibly.
Sustainable Travel Tips:
- Travel Light – Bringing only essentials reduces transport emissions and your carbon footprint.
- Shop Local – Buy from nearby businesses to support the economy and cut down on food miles.
- Opt for Public Transport – Trains and buses are a more eco-friendly way to explore Scotland.
- Choose Low-Impact Activities – Enjoy walking, wildlife watching, and cycling over carbon-heavy experiences.
Being an Eco-Conscious Guest:
- Slow Down and Stay Local – Explore nearby areas instead of constantly travelling long distances.
- Respect Nature – Follow Scotland’s outdoor access code to minimise your impact.
- Volunteer or Get Involved – Look for conservation projects, beach clean-ups, or local food banks to support during your stay.
By making mindful choices, we can all contribute to a more sustainable and eco-friendly way of travelling. Ready to plan your green getaway? There are many to choose from, start searching for your self-catering holiday on EmbraceScotland today!
As you plan your perfect Scottish winter escape, let us inspire you with cosy romantic getaways, magical wildlife breaks, or indulgent hot tub breaks under starry skies. For families, our curated family breaks ensure a memorable holiday for everyone, while cottages with real fires provide the ultimate comfort this season.
From coastal cabins to rustic cottages and luxury retreats, the cosiest winter stays in Scotland are ready to welcome you.
To prepare for your trip, don’t miss our recent blogs: “A Cosy Scottish Winter: What to Expect and What to Pack” for practical tips, and “Home is Everywhere in Scotland,” celebrating the magic of self-catering stays.
Discover your ideal Scottish retreat today, where Scotland’s charm and a welcoming home away from home await. Keep an eye out for special offers throughout the year!