SHINNESS LODGE
Shinness Lodge, overlooking Loch Shin, represents the epitome of a traditional Victorian sporting retreat. It now operates as a successful self-catering tourism enterprise. The land surrounding the lodge is a mosaic of woodlands, glades and pasture, and is crossed by several watercourses. The presence of non-native sika deer on the site and on surrounding landholdings represents an ongoing challenge to healthy woodland regeneration.
Key rewilding commitments:
- MORE NATIVE WOODLAND: Drive native woodland regeneration by proactively reducing sika deer population.
- MORE SPACE FOR WATER: Increase the amount of standing water by exploring opportunities for new ponds and scrapes; and installing leaky dams in the burns that cross the site.
- JOINED UP HABITATS: Remove redundant fencing and tree shelters.
- RETURN MISSING SPECIES: Explore enrichment planting of missing tree species and ground flora vegetation.
- LET NATURE LEAD: Enhance woodland biodiversity by restricting spread of non-native conifers and rhododendron.
'Shinness Lodge, along with the surrounding woodland and hill, is a truly special place for my family. Set amongst traditional croftland, it provides a tranquil space for nature that visitors can enjoy and that contributes to the ecological health of the wider area.'
