Now more than ever sustainability is a growing concern, and Glen Tanar’s owners Michael and Claire are as eco-conscious as possible, from investing in new technology to using planet-friendly cleaning products in Glen Tanar's charming self-catering holiday cottages. Every decision is underpinned by a pledge to create a sustainable estate where the best of natural Scotland can be enjoyed for generations to come.
The Bruces place great emphasis on conservation and responsible land management on this internationally important site, and maintain a culture of gradually investing, constantly improving and adapting sensitively to changing times. This means they can balance the needs of a growing business with those of a rural community and unique natural environment.
Glen Tanar works in close partnership with NatureScot, and the Cairngorms National Park Authority.
Sustainable energy
A state-of-the-art biomass system, fuelled by wood chips sustainably sourced from the estate, provides hot water and heating to the estate’s tenants and holiday cottage guests. Meanwhile, with 9,800 acres of commercial and conservation forestry, the estate produces up to 10,000 tonnes of timber each year. Some is used in construction and some for biomass, both on the estate – and to power a local whisky distillery.
Sustainable forest and land management
The team at Glen Tanar protects biodiversity by managing the land through a mix of traditional and modern techniques. The 25,000 acre estate sits inside the Cairngorms National Park Authority, housing the third largest native Caledonia pinewood in Scotland on the Glen Tanar National Nature Reserve. Visitors can explore these native pinewoods walking, biking or riding, and should look out for rare protected species, such as red squirrels, Scottish crossbills, capercaillie, ospreys and golden eagles.
Over the next 30 years the forest on Glen Tanar will be expanded by more than 2,500 acres using natural regeneration, making a total of 2.2 million trees! These trees will lock away carbon, reduce flooding, improve the environment and increase natural woodland cover to protect the estate's biodiversity.
Cutting climate change
In a bid to reduce carbon dioxide in the environment, Glen Tanar caters for electric bikes and vehicles – and all cottages have charging points for both. Visitors are encouraged to engage in sustainable tourism by walking, cycling and eating locally. It’s easy to have an authentic yet eco-friendly stay in this beautiful natural playground.
Wildlife protection
Wildlife is at the heart of Glen Tanar and, from deer to bees, each animal has a vital role in a balanced ecosystem. The estate is home to protected animals, such as red squirrels, Scottish crossbills, hares, capercaillie, ospreys and golden eagles. By embracing them through activities and projects like the wildlife hide, 'The Lookout' and wildlife photography sessions, as well as encouraging sales of Glen Tanar Honey, you can help protect the estate's biodiversity.
