Alladale Wilderness Reserve

Alladale Wilderness Reserve sits right in the heart of the Highlands, an hour north of Inverness and with views of the sea to the east and west from its highest point.

The reserve covers some 100 square kilometres of forking glen, rugged mountains, woodland, rivers and hill lochs. And there is a vision behind the beauty. Alladale is a pioneering place that leads the way in the rewilding movement, restoring a once overgrazed stalking estate to a diverse landscape with over 850,000 saplings planted, and protecting native wildlife such as pine marten, black grouse and golden eagles alongside free roaming Highland cattle and deer.

You can learn all about this pioneering effort on guided walks and drives with expert guides, perhaps visiting the Scottish wildcat project to catch a glimpse of one of the world’s rarest felines. It’s also a place to immerse yourself in wilderness, whether cycling trails on mountain bikes, wild swimming in the cool river or hiking up to the mountain lochs to fish. Outside the reserve, the north of Scotland offers a host of incredible day trips with the west coast’s incredible beaches, a collection of historic castles, world famous whiskey distilleries and fine golf courses all within reach.

There are three homely accommodation options here. Down in the valley are two private cottages, Ghillie’s Rest and Eagle’s Crag. The former can sleep up to four people in its two bedrooms, but it is also well suited to couples. Eagle’s Crag is ideal for friends and families, with two double bedrooms and an attic room meaning up to eight people can sleep here. Each cottage has its own kitchen and catering options are entirely flexible.

For larger groups of up to 14, there is the exclusive use Main Lodge, an old Victorian manor with incredible views down the glen. Available fully catered and with huge fire-warmed living areas, a gym, billiard room and dining room, this is the place to experience life as a laird.