Considering the vast pockets of stunning unaltered landscape in Scotland, it makes sense to construct low impact buildings in tune with the natural environment. Complimenting their surroundings with self-sustaining designs and carbon neutral footprints, here are Scotland’s most incredible eco lodges worth lusting over. Green never looked so magical!
Eagle Brae
Eco-Lodge
Eagle Brae | Courtesy Of Eagle Brae
Eagle Brae, with its carbon neutral self-sufficient log cabins and jaw-dropping natural beauty, is a true oasis of calm. Comprised of Western Red Cedar logs and handcrafted to perfection, the swanky cabins are an eco-friendly epicentre with clever environmentally friendly tricks like the biomass heating, microhyrdro power systems, an underground spring water supply and wild greenery roof insulation. A utopian ecotourism spot, Eagle Brae is nestled away in the thick of the Scottish Highlands, resulting in picture-perfect views. Details like the handcraft Himalayan woodcarvings add that extra punch of personality to the already chic interiors.
Croft 103 is an intuitive structure straight out of a Bond film. Located on the bonnie banks of Loch Eriboll near Durness in North West Sutherland, this contemporary carbon negative croft gains most of its power from a compact wind turbine and is insulated by sheep wool. The epitome of exemplary craftsmanship, Croft 103, which consists of local timber and stone, was crafted using traditional techniques, with the external walls created from on-site materials. A swarm of solar collector panels provide hot water, while renewable sources on location produce energy to run the building. The crafty addition of used car tyres was also used in the build. You will never want to leave this true hideaway.
An otherworldly abode bestowed with dreamy qualities, Ecopod blends in harmoniously amidst the breathtaking west coast of Scotland. Inspired by similar designs found in Berlin, these geodesic domes are adorned with all the mod cons and infused with ethereal light. Impressive space bow down to the evocative mix of coastal, lochside and mountainous views, while the serene air is accentuated by the luxurious furnishings recycled and handcrafted from renewable sources. Meticulously executed, there’s no expense spared when it comes to honouring the environment — think wood from local sustainable forests, low-power-usage appliances, the high efficiency wood pellet biomass heating system and a no-wastage hot water supply.
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The Duck’s Nest could not be more suited to times that call for falling off the grid. A birdwatcher’s dream, this postcard of a two-person eco lodge is situated in a pine tree forest at the edge of the water surrounded by ducks and waterfowl. Cosy and intimate, the wood fired timber hot tub and two-person dry heat sauna make for a restorative experience. It’s hard to tell which is more magical — gazing up at the maze of dancing Scottish stars through the strategically placed window or taking a rejuvenating shower of heated rainwater collected in reclaimed oak whisky barrels. The red squirrel feeding table and chimenea stove add that off-the-radar sense of excitement. With regards to that clever composting toilet — it isn’t as bad as it sounds!
Lower Gorge Bath // Spa Dome | Courtesy of ecoYoga
The brainchild of two environment-loving yogis, ecoYoga is a true sanctuary synonymous with rejuvenation and respite. This unique yoga retreat is located at Inverliever Lodge and boasts a carbon-free atmosphere. Blending in with the forests, lochs, rivers and hills, the entire centre is powered by a tribe of solar panels and an impressive 550KW hydro turbine. Guests are invited to tour the Inverliever Hydro Power Station and learn about the benefits of a luxury eco lifestyle. From secret baths at river gorges in the forest and the geodesic hot tub, to the rainforest showers in the sento dome and artisan sauna, ecoYoga offers unrivalled liberating outdoor bathing experiences inspired by Japanese bathing purification rituals. Amazingly, the water comes from their private spring and the bathing is run by 100% renewable energy.
Less of an eco lodge and more of a top class eco-friendly haven, Knoydart House, — with its lofty vaulted ceilings, exposed timber frames and enchanting floor to roof windows—, gets umpteen stars. Praised by the masses and celebrated for its serenity, it’s hard to believe that this swanky self-catered accommodation can be so environmentally friendly. Aside from the unparalleled views of Loch Nevis and dreamy hot tub, highlights include the private small hydro scheme, larch cladding, energy efficient appliances and environmentally conscious insulation.
