Wilderness Scotland, an award-winning adventure travel company in the Highlands and Islands, has been awarded the maximum 5 star Responsible Tourism rating from AITO. Stevie Christie, Director commented, “AITO represents the very best of specialised British Tour Operators and we are extremely proud that our policies and practices have been recognised at the highest level.”

Through practical steps facilitating and enhancing the natural regeneration of trees, Trees for Life works to re-establish areas of healthy young forest scattered throughout the barren, deforested glens. As these new trees reach seed-bearing age they will form the nuclei for an expanded natural regeneration in the surrounding area. “The Caledonian Forest originally covered 1.5 million hectares of the Scottish Highlands as a vast primeval wilderness of Scots pine, birch, rowan, aspen, juniper and other trees. Today, though, just 1% of the forest remains.”

Looking for amazing rural destinations and traditional experiences? Learn from Sally Broom, Founder, Your Safe Planet: “The UK is not well known for being an ecotourism destination and yet we have some of the most beautiful rural areas in Europe. On the border of beautiful Wales is Shropshire where ‘Eco-cabin’ is located costing just £90 a night for up to 4 people! From there you can head to Mid Wales which is an ecotourism haven. The Lake District offers the chance to stay in traditional tepees and yurts.”

Officially named the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland, the UK is an island nation comprised of England, Northern Ireland, Scotland and Wales. Consistently among the top 6 international destinations, and boasting 27 natural and cultural UNESCO world heritage sites, there’s no shortage of awe-inspiring places to explore in the UK. Consequently, travellers continually repeating similar tracks puts a heavy burden on the natural and built environment, and motivates visionaries in the industry to find solutions to manage tourism in a sustainable way.