At Cameron House on Loch Lomond we are committed to doing what we can to protect the natural environment. This includes having a dedicated Resort Conservation Manager and Green Committee representatives from each department. We believe that we all share responsibility for looking after our planet and it is this philosophy that guides us; ensuring we consider the environment by carrying out simple behavioural changes including correctly disposing of our rubbish, picking up litter, recycling where we can and saving energy. For our resort conservation team, it also means creating habitats for animals and birds, increasing feeding opportunities and protecting their natural environments.
We are delighted that the resort was recently awarded Silver status by Green Tourism and we are working hard towards achieving the Gold award. Explore some of our current resort initiatives that are helping us become a more sustainable business below. From improving pollution management of the Golf Courses to supporting the resort conservation team with various initiatives to improve the natural habitat of the creatures that we share the resort with.
Read our Green Statement here.
CONSERVING OUR NATURAL AND CULTURAL HERITAGE
Resort Conservation Manager, Jenny Paterson runs a series of conservation initiatives at the Cameron Club and Spa resort. In her Estate Ranger Brochure, you can learn more about the rich biodiversity on the resort, find out where you can spot some of our local wildlife, and information on educational initiatives such as The Enchanted Wood.
We’ve also spotlighted some of her recent initiatives below to improve our rich natural heritage.
BEE CONSERVATION
Bees are in decline worldwide and this is extremely worrying. There are several ways to improve life for bees and butterflies, and at Cameron House on Loch Lomond our Conservation Manager leads our team to manage the Estate with as much empathy for the natural environment as possible. We don’t use insecticides; we allow areas of grass and wild flowers to grow, and most recently, we invited the Helensburgh and District Beekeepers Association to locate some of their hives on our land. If you do happen to come across them, please don’t get too close, so as not to disturb the bees.
The Bee Garden, by the bridge on The Carrick Golf Course, is a haven for all types of insects but the primary motivation for the creation of this garden was the UK’s declining bee population. The garden contains lots of bee friendly plants that flower between March and September and you’ll often see lots of bees, insects and butterflies during this time. If you are interested in creating your own bee-friendly garden Green Tourism share their top 10 bee-friendly gardening tips for beginners.
BAT CONSERVATION AND BAT WALKS
We have a variety of bat species living on the resort, including Daubenton’s and Soprano Pipistrelle bats, and our resort conservation team make sure they are well looked after! The Carrick Golf Course provides the ideal habitat for bats and we have 14 bat boxes carefully located around The Cameron Club and Spa resort.
During the summer months Jenny runs guided bat walks to help our guests discover more about the bat population on the resort. Guests can expect to find out the difference between the calls of the different types of bats and learn all about their habitat, food and the conservation challenges we’re facing.
THE ENCHANTED WOOD
Previously an overgrown area of woodland nestled in between the 17th tee and the 18th green of The Carrick Golf Course, The Enchanted Wood is now a beautiful wildlife haven that includes an all abilities path in the form of a figure of eight, benches, a herb garden, a den for children’s play, fairy doors, a hobbit house and a mini beast motel, as well as two ponds. The garden was recently expanded and is popular with guests of all ages.
SO WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE?
It's a tricky question but it comes down to two factors: canopy cover and animals.
In woodlands, there are wide open spaces and the tree density is a lot less. With larger spacing, light can easily get to the plants which affects the quality and quantity of fauna. There are also smaller and fewer animals fond in woodlands compared to forests where larger are found.
SUSTAINABLE RESORT ACTIVITIES
Promoting sustainable activity options to our visitors is an important part of our recent work towards our Green Tourism Silver award. Find out more about how we’re doing our bit to promote more sustainable activities below:
Bike hire
Our resort is lucky enough to be located along the National Cycle Route 7 and we have recently invested in adult and child mountain bikes, which are available for hire. We’re encouraging guests to get outdoors and explore the local area in a sustainable way. Discover Bike Hire at Cameron House on Loch Lomond here.
Segway Safari
Our Segway Safari is an eco-friendly way to explore our resort on a guided tour. Environmental benefits regard the fact that Segway, as a zero-emission machinery, contributes to reducing the emissions linked to pollution and climate change. Segway tours are also a great way to get your friends and family together to enjoy the great outdoors.