Scotland’s Great Escapes: Sustainable Escapes in Argyll & the Isles
Scotland’s Greatest Escape, a BBC Scotland series, recently visited some of Argyll & the Isles’ bays, glens and lochs on the search for the very best holiday escapes that Scotland has to offer. From lochside cabins and luxury lodges to farm stays and unique dining experiences, here are some of the featured Argyll & the Isles businesses that have created unique accommodations whilst considering the environment.
Kabn Company, Loch Fyne
Torrisdale Castle Estate, Kintyre
Located just a short walk from Torrisdale Bay on the Kintyre Peninsula, this historic sandstone castle is the perfect base from which to explore beautiful Kintyre, a lesser-known part of Scotland that has stunning coastlines and beaches, majestic hills, wildlife galore and masses of heart and soul.
Torrisdale Castle Estate’s Eco Bothies are located a short walk from the castle on a hillside with extensive views across the Kilbrannan Sound to Arran and over the surrounding hills. Built to a unique design and utilising green practices, such as ground screws and solar power, the bothies are equipped with log stoves and an elevated decking area, making them a cosy and incredibly scenic escape. With their location close to the beach, the bothies are perfect to unwind and enjoy some water sports, wild swimming or wildlife watching.
Torrisdale Castle Estate is also the home of Beinn an Tuirc Distillers Ltd, home to award-winning spirits such as Kintyre Gin and Tarbert Legbiter. Why not spend an afternoon taking a tour of the distillery or at the gin school?
Watch a clip of the episode here.
Kabn Company, Loch Fyne
Nestled amidst the stunning landscapes of Loch Fyne, Kabn Company offer a unique glamping experience that blends modern comfort with the rugged beauty of the Scottish countryside. The eco-cabins have been architecturally designed to allow guests to immerse in nature whilst maintaining privacy, seclusion and tranquillity. The interior incorporates Japanese minimalism with Scandinavian contemporary design whilst offering breathtaking views over Loch Fyne.
Looking for a unique dining experience to further enhance your stay?
Kabn Company has partnered with renowned wild cooking expert, Chef William Hamer of Wild Kabn Kitchen offering Kabn guests a unique and authentic culinary experience. Join Chef William Hamer for a romantic private dining experience on the shores of Loch Fyne or join other foodies during one of his supper clubs at Ardkinglas Estates. William is an extremely talented, renewed chef who is an expert in wild cooking. Seeking to connect food, fire and nature with an ethos of supporting local businesses and suppliers, William prides himself in only sourcing the finest organic and sustainable ingredients Scotland’s larder has to offer.
Watch a clip of the episode here.
Glenorchy Farm, Dalmally
Escape to the tranquillity of Glenorchy Farm, where luxury log cabins await amidst the secluded Highlands of Scotland. Located on a small family-owned working farm, the luxury self-catering cabins offer a perfect blend of rustic charm and modern comforts with spectacular views over the Glen and River Orchy. Owners Tristan and Fiona encourage guests to get up close with the sheep, cows and chickens that call the farm their home.
Sustainable living, biodiversity and collaborating with local companies is a core part of the ethos of Glenorchy Farm. In 2019/20, Tristan and Fiona planted native woodlands around the farm, which now provides the backdrop of the cabins. Inside the cabins themselves, you will find many locally sourced and recycled products as well as various features to help you conserve energy and water.
With rushing waterfalls and ancient pine forests, Glenorchy Farm is the perfect spot for outdoor enthusiasts and families to explore the surrounding area. All cabins come with a cosy log burner, and an extensive outdoor decking and are dog-friendly. Come and experience the silence, the clear fresh air, the dark skies, the river and the wildlife of Glenorchy Farms for yourself.
Watch a clip of the episode here.
