Aigas Field Centre — Attraction in Scotland

Staying a week at Aigas - with its grounds, rangers, and Sir John and Lady Lucy - is among the most exceptional of my many travel experiences. Think wildlife refuge and rewilding programs rolled into a refurbished Victorian estate led by Sir John Lister-Kaye, well known in the naturalist and conservation circles for his pioneering work.

I stayed as part of an educational tour group, and enjoyed each day fully. Through field trips, hikes, and events, I learned a great deal about Scotland's rich history and current efforts to restore biodiversity to the country. The rangers who led our trips were knowledgeable, energetic, and enthusiastic. The modest accommodations adjacent to the estate house were clean and comfortable, with big windows for spotting red squirrels and bird life. The food was creative and fabulous, served in a spectacular dining hall. The garden and grounds were breathtaking. Sir John and Lady Lucy and Hermione were gracious hosts, eager that their guests enjoyed their stay.

Make sure to look closely at the center's website, because Aigas is not open to the public. Only to guests who have signed up for its various programs. I'm eyeing the list now for another adventure. Highly...

Perfect place for a peaceful holiday, living in a turfed roof log cabin and dining in the beautiful Aigas House. The habitats for the wide variety of flora and fauna were easy to access. Hides provided successful viewing of badger, pine martin, wild cat and beaver and birds galore. Lots of photographic opportunities. The meals were five star. The Rangers are all very knowledgeable, helpful and good drivers. Sir John and Lady Lucy's hospitality and organisation is wonderful. The Aigas Field Club have a great programme for helping children understand all about the diversity of wildlife. I can certainly recommend choosing an Aigas Wildlife experience for a holiday experience to remember....

I tried a Naturedays Open House recently and it's exactly what I've been trying to create out of the wooded spaces near where I live. But someone's already done it (Fin, as far as I can tell - based on my own experience and from what other home-edding parents have told me about him). Its pedagogy is something I've been trying to find for years (both in the Highlands and Central Belt) and I'm so happy that it exists here - if Fin ran this programme more regularly (essentially a forest school for older kids, not just nursery), we'd be...