ALLADALE WILDERNESS LODGE & RESERVE
Set amid the majestic Scottish Highlands, Alladale offers the perfect hideaway for corporate retreats or for spending quality time with family & friends.
RESTORING THE BALANCE OF NATURE
ALLADALE WILDERNESS LODGE & RESERVE
Peaceful seclusion, panoramic views and laid-back luxury at the most remote and beautiful setting in the Scottish Highlands. The Alladale Wilderness Reserve has now featured in two prestigious TV productions: ‘A Moose In The Glen’; a film in the BBC’s flagship natural history series ‘The Natural World’; and the six part primetime BBC series ‘The Real Monarch Of The Glen’. The conservationist and philanthropist Paul Lister, the founder of the Alladale restoration project, has also been recognised in the 2008 Spear’s Awards as ‘Green Entrepreneur Of The Year’.
RESTORING THE BALANCE OF NATURE
The Highlands are considered one of Europe’s last great areas of wilderness, yet much of the flora and fauna that once thrived there has been decimated or driven to extinction by the activities of man. The purpose of the Alladale Wilderness Reserve is to restore a remote area of the Highlands to its former natural glory. Your stay at Alladale will contribute directly to this pioneering conservation project. In Roman times the ‘Great Wood of Caledon’ covered much of the Highlands; today, less than one percent of that ancient forest remains. On Alladale we are restoring the native forest by reducing red deer numbers and returning lost species such as wild boar which will stimulate plant and tree regeneration. Taking these steps will help recreate one of the oldest, most important and inspirational wild places in Europe.
ALLADALE WILDERNESS LODGE & RESERVE
Your home from home in the heart of the Highlands
Set amid 23,000 acres of majestic scenery on the borders of Sutherland and Ross-shire, Alladale Lodge is the definition of a private escape. It makes the perfect hideaway for corporate retreats, special interest breaks, or for spending quality time with family and friends. Staffed by an experienced team, the lodge provides an enviable base from which to enjoy all that the reserve and the wider region have to offer. Accommodating up to 14 guests in an atmosphere of informal luxury, it combines traditional character with fully modernised interiors that keep it cosy and inviting even in the depths of a Highland winter. From its elevated position, the lodge commands sweeping views of the surrounding glens and mountains. Our resident chef prepares delicious meals, using the freshest local, seasonal and organic ingredients possible. Alladale is situated at the narrowest part of the British Isles (from the highground it is possible to see both the Atlantic Ocean and North Sea) and on the eastern side of the watershed, which means we enjoy a favourable microclimate, receiving lower rainfall than other areas of the country.
RESTORING THE BALANCE OF NATURE
ALLADALE WILDERNESS LODGE & RESERVE
Wildlife diversity unrivalled in the British Isles
Alladale’s flora and fauna provides a truly rewarding and unique experience. This includes one of the northernmost remnants of the ancient Caledonian forest. Birdlife at Alladale is exceptional and includes resident golden eagles. We also have a badger hide, from where guests can observe these notoriously shy animals. Wildlife viewing is conducted by our knowledgeable rangers, either on foot or by Land Rover. We are committed to reinforcing Scotland’s position as one of Europe’s prime wildlife destinations. Ongoing conservation work at Alladale includes a study on wild boar, which is supervised by Oxford University’s Wildlife Conservation Research Unit. We are also initiating a local reintroduction of the red squirrel, which we aim to see back in the very near future. Just a few of the species found on Alladale include: • Red deer • Roe deer • European elk (moose) • Highland cattle • Wild boar • Pine marten • Red fox • Otter • Badger • Mountain hare • Golden eagle • Osprey • Peregrine falcon • Merlin (the UK’s smallest bird of prey) • Ptarmigan • Black grouse • Red-throated diver.
RESTORING THE BALANCE OF NATURE
ALLADALE WILDERNESS LODGE & RESERVE
Outstanding fly fishing on rivers and hill lochs
Alladale Wilderness Reserve contains many hill lochs, as well as the upper reaches of two rivers – the Carron, and its tributary the Alladale. The reserve provides world-class wild brown trout fishing. Salmon fishing downstream on the Carron, and on other local rivers including the Oykel, Cassley, Evelix, and Shin, can be arranged on request. A selection of Orvis fishing rods and tackle is available at the lodge for guests’ use. Alladale is actively engaged in a major tree planting initiative to restore the riparian habitat within the entire Kyle of Sutherland catchment area. The fishing season runs from 1 March to 30 September.
RESTORING THE BALANCE OF NATURE
Explore some of Europe’s most spectacular scenery on horseback
Pony trekking is a great way to experience the scenic grandeur of Alladale. Venture deep into the reserve on our sturdy Highland ponies, riding along glens, across rivers, through native woodlands and up into the heather-covered hills. There are tracks to suit all standards of rider, and our guide will inform you on points of interest along the way, from flora and fauna to the ruins of old crofts – evidence of the infamous Highland Clearances.
ALLADALE WILDERNESS LODGE & RESERVE
Amazing day trips, world class golf courses and much more
As well as fly-fishing, stalking and awe-inspiring wildlife viewing, a wide range of other activities awaits you at Alladale. Spend the days enjoying the stimulating Highland air and exploring the wilds via one of many hiking and mountain biking trails, or watch salmon leap waterfalls just minutes from the lodge. Clay pigeon and rifle target shooting are also available, with expert tuition for beginners. Alternatively, unwind in the snug comfort of the lodge and enjoy a sauna, a workout in the gym, a relaxing massage or beauty treatment, a game of snooker on our full-size table, or simply curl up with a good book and a glass of wine by our blazing fires.
Around Alladale
Our surrounding area boasts a wide range of places to visit and activities to enjoy, from historic and natural sites of interest to world-famous golf courses, (you are welcome to use our Callaway golf clubs). • • • • • • • • • • •
oyal Dornoch Golf Club (plus four other courses) R Dunrobin Castle and falconry displays Croick Church Alladale country store and cafe, Ardgay Balblair and Glenmorangie whisky distilleries The Falls of Shin and ‘Harrods of the North’ Sandy beaches Handa Island – for its colonies of seabirds Boat trips to see dolphins and seals The historic towns of Dornoch and Tain Local potteries and craft shops.
RESTORING THE BALANCE OF NATURE
ALLADALE WILDERNESS LODGE & RESERVE
Corporate retreats, weddings and special occasions
Alladale makes an ideal venue for all kinds of corporate events, from board meetings to executive think-tanks, seminars, sales meetings or team-building exercises. Our peaceful location provides a conducive environment for getting down to business, with facilities including a well-equipped boardroom seating up to 14 people and WiFi connectivity throughout the lodge. If you are looking for somewhere to reward a hard-working team, Alladale fits the bill perfectly. We can host weddings, birthdays and any other celebratory gatherings you have in mind. Civil ceremonies can be performed either at the lodge or outdoors with the glens as a stunning backdrop. With no public roads or through traffic on the reserve, your absolute privacy is assured. The lodge is also open for Christmas and Hogmanay, with a Highland band provided for a ceilidh (Scottish dance) and a piper if required.
RESTORING THE BALANCE OF NATURE
Photography, yoga, pilates, cookery and more‌
Alladale is usually booked on an exclusive basis, but we also operate a diverse series of special interest breaks that are open to individuals, couples and bespoke groups. These include: wildlife and wilderness experience, photographic workshops, yoga retreats, health & fitness training, personal development, pilates, painting and cookery holidays.
ALLADALE WILDERNESS LODGE & RESERVE
Renowned Stalking with rifle or camera
The absence of natural predators in the Highlands has led to an overpopulation of red deer. Intense browsing by deer inhibits the regeneration of woodland, which has negative consequences for the entire ecosystem. To keep deer numbers at a manageable level we offer first-rate stalking, accompanied by professional rangers. This provides the added ecological purpose of select culling rather than trophy hunting. Stags are brought off the hill on horseback, in the traditional way. The stalking season runs from 1 July to 15 February. Those who prefer to shoot with a camera rather than a rifle can also experience the thrill of the stalk, enjoying exceptional photographic opportunities across almost 100 square kilometres of classic Highland landscapes.
RESTORING THE BALANCE OF NATURE
ALLADALE WILDERNESS LODGE & RESERVE
John John O’Groats O’Groats Wick Wick
A9 A9
Bonar Bonar Bridge Bridge
Croick Croick Alladale Alladale Lodge Lodge
Golspie Golspie A9 A9
9 9 A94A94
Alladale Alladale
Ardgay Ardgay
A8 A8 36 36
B91
Dornoch Dornoch
Tain Tain
79
Aberdeen Aberdeen
B91
79
Inverness Inverness
Brora Brora
A9 A9
Alness Alness
Cromarty Cromarty
Dingwall Dingwall
The Alladale Reserve’s purpose is to ‘restore the balance of nature’ in a wilderness area of the Scottish Highlands while bringing prosperity to the region and its community through investing in conservation and education.
Nairn Nairn A9 A9 A96A96
Edinburgh Glasgow Glasgow Edinburgh
Inverness Inverness Airport Airport
Alladale Alladale Country Country Store Store & Cafe & Cafe Open Open seven seven days days a week a week Golf Golf Courses Courses
A82A82
Inverness Inverness Loch Loch Ness Ness
GETTING THERE
KINDLY SUPPORTED BY OUR PARTNERS:
Alladale is located just an hour’s scenic drive from Inverness, the gateway to the Highlands. Regular flights operate to Inverness from Gatwick, Luton, Birmingham, Manchester, Bristol, Belfast, Southampton, East Midlands and Edinburgh. There is also a sleeper-train service to Inverness from London Euston. We will gladly arrange your transfer to the lodge from either the airport or train station. Alternatively, by helicopter it takes less than 20 minutes from Inverness airport.
Alladale is a proud partner of the Mantis Group www.mantiscollection.com Alladale an active supporter of The European Nature Trust. www.theeuropeannaturetrust.com Alladale is also proud to work with WildCRU, the Oxford University Wildlife Conservation Research Unit, on projects in the Scottish Highlands and across Europe.
DIRECTIONS FROM INVERNESS From Inverness take the A9 north. Before the town of Alness turn left onto the B9176, towards Ardgay & Bonar Bridge. At the village of Ardgay, turn left in front of the Alladale Country Store & Cafe, continue for a further 9 miles and turn left at the phone box. After 1.5 miles the hard road will end and Alladale Lodge is a further 2 miles ahead on the unsealed track. Alladale Wilderness Lodge & Reserve Ardgay, Sutherland, Scotland IV24 3BS
Alladale’s guests, and all visitors to the reserve, also support the project by participating in a carefully considered, responsible and sustainable tourism initiative - support which contributes directly to the restoration and conservation of the environment and the rich biodiversity within it. A full listing of rates for both accomodation and the broad range of activities available at Alladale is detailed on the fold-out page inside this cover.
Alladale is also supported by the following partners: The Challenger Trust The Forestry Commission Kyle of Sutherland Fisheries Trust Scottish Natural Heritage PHOTOGRAPHS COURTESY OF:
Tel +44 (0)1863 755338 Fax +44 (0)1863 755352 Email reservations@alladale.com www.alladale.com
RESTORING THE BALANCE OF NATURE
John Baikie, Tom Baker, Niall Benvie, Peter Cairns, Rod Calbrade, Laurie Campbell, Innes MacNeill, Fin MacRae, Chris Sandom, Jack Shainsky, Staffan Widstrand
Printed on Think4 White 300gsm and Sovereign Silk 170gsm by Howard Smith Paper. These papers are produced with 100% ECF (Elemental Chlorine Free) pulp that is fully recyclable and sourced from carefully managed and renewed commercial forests, certified in accordance with the FSC (Forest Stewardship Council).
Full Board Rates from 1 January 2009 inc. VAT
EXCLUSIVE OCCUPANCY AT ALLADALE
Lodge
Rate per night for parties of: 14
Eagle’s Crag Ghillie’s Rest 4
4 January to 31 May 1 November to 22 December £2300.00 £700.00
2+2 £400.00
1 June to 31 October 23 December to 3 January £3300.00 £1000.00 £600.00 Full board comprises breakfast, lunch, afternoon tea and three course dinner. To confirm your reservation, a deposit of 25% is required. Balances are due 60 days prior to arrival. Preferential rates are available for stays of 5 days or more and 100% pre-payment.
LEISURE Duration Alladale 4x4 Wilderness and Wildlife Experience 4 Hours Ranger Guided Walks 3 Hours Salmon Leaping (seasonal) 2 Hours Flora and Fauna 4 Hours Two Ocean’s View 7 Hours Pony Trekking (with guide) 3 Hours 6 Hours
Cost
Mountain Biking throughout the Reserve & surrounding areas
Inclusive
2-5 Hours
Inclusive Inclusive Inclusive Inclusive Inclusive £60.00 pp £100.00 pp
Gym and Sauna Well Being Treatments
Inclusive P.O.A
Snooker Table
Inclusive
Whiskey tasting at the Lodge Falconry Display 2 Hours
P.O.A
Ceilidh Band and Dancing Piper 1-2 Hours
£385.00 £80.00
£275.00
COUNTRY SPORTS Deer Stalking 1 July to 15 February Hinds (per rifle) Stags (per rifle)
Full Day Full Day
Trout Fly Fishing river or loch 1 April to 30 September
2 Hours/Full Day Inclusive
Clay Bird Shooting (25 clays) Rifle Target (10 rounds)
£250.00 £350/£450.00
£30.00 £20.00
OFF SITE ACTIVITIES Salmon Fishing on the river Carron 11 January to 30 September Full Day Golf - 9 Holes - Bonar Bridge Full Day Golf - 18 Holes - Royal Dornoch or one of the other five magnificent courses within an hours drive Full Day
Architect’s sketch of ‘Eagle’s Crag’: Opening May 2009.
P.O.A £15.00 pp P.O.A
West Coast Wildlife (seasonal) Taking in Handa Island, seal watching and fresh seafood lunch included Full Day
£90.00 pp
Sutherland Tour of castles, villages, distilleries, potteries etc
4 Hours Full Day
£35.00 pp £60.00 pp
Whisky Tour: The distilleries of Balblair, Glenmorangie and Dalmore are all within an hours drive
Full Day
P.O.A
P.O.A - Price on application
pp - per person
Alladale Wilderness Lodge & Reserve Ardgay, Sutherland, Scotland IV24 3BS Tel +44 (0)1863 755338 Fax +44 (0)1863 755352 Email reservations@alladale.com www.alladale.com
RESTORING THE BALANCE OF NATURE