The Trossachs Farmhouse Cottages are situated on the edge of Scotland’s first National Park – Loch Lomond and the Trossachs.   Originally a working farm the farmhouse steadings have been superbly converted to ensure long term sustainability and preservation of the natural beauty of this special area.

What have we done:

•   We have insulated our cottages to a very high standard.   All windows are double
     glazed which reduces the heat losses and the energy cost of the cottages.
•   The energy efficient LPG central heating boilers provide instant hot water without          
     the need for hot water cylinders and every radiator is thermostatically controlled
•   We have replaced standard light bulbs (where possible) with low energy bulbs –
      they take a few seconds to warm up to reach maximum efficiency.
•  We monitor electricity and gas usage and all taps are regularly monitored as part
     of a management process. 
•   In an endeavour to reduce landfill we provide bins for paper, glass, cans and
     plastic recycling
•   We provide kitchen towels and toilet rolls made from recycled paper – this means 
      that no forests are cut down to provide the materials.
•  Liquid soaps and shower gel etc are provided in refillable bottles.    This means
     no hard soap portions are thrown away and the products have not been tested on
     animals
•   We provide ecofriendly cleaning products to reduce the impact on the aquatic   
     environment.
•   Microfibre cloths are used to clean windows etc so that no sprays are required
•   The waste from the cottages is treated by a rotating biological treatment unit
     which is efficient and reduces the amount of chemicals going into the water
     course.

You are invited to enjoy our unspoilt environment:

•    We have 30 acres of land which have friendly cattle grazing during the
       summer months
•    In winter the fields are a regular habitat for migrating  geese frequently
      several hundred at a time.     
•    In 2007 we planted 3,000 woodland trees mostly oak, silver birch and rowan
•   In 2008 we planted 2000 hawthorn and blackthorn hedging trees which will
     provide valuable habitat for small birds
•    We have created two wildlife ponds which attract oyster catchers, lapwing,
      curlew, snipe and heron.
•    Bird tables are provided to encourage smaller birds for the pleasure of
      visitors.  
•    An owl nesting box has been used by a pair of barn owls for the past 10 years
      The chicks have identity ring tags fitted by an owl specialist from the Forestry
      Commission.
•    Red deer and roe deer are regular visitors across the fields – not forgetting the
      rabbits and hares.
•   Bat boxes for the pipistrelle bats which normally appear 20 minutes after sunset
     flying at approximately head height in search of insects

We provide:

•    Guide books and maps for the local area.    
•    Suitable walks and trails for hikers and cyclists – Trossachs Cycle Hire, next door,   
      can provide bikes for the entire family at reasonable rates.
•    We provide information on our local Gartartan Farm Shop who supply meat and
      vegetables from their own farm together with delicious home baking.
•    The Beech Tree Inn at Dumgoyne has received an award for healthy eating and
      has an extensive menu to suit all tastes including vegetarians and allergy sufferers
•    Tour routes designed to take you on scenic quiet roads away from the bustling
      crowds.  Classic car owners are most welcome.
•   Bus timetables included in the Visitor Packs
•   Information on Farmers’ Markets at Stirling and Balloch.

How can you help:

•   Please don’t leave the heating turned on full when away for the day.  Switch off or
     use the Timer.  The cottages warm up very quickly thanks to the efficient system   
     and good insulation
•  Please turn off lights, TV’s etc when not required
•  Please use our recycling bins
• Do try to support local businesses and buy local products and gifts while you are
    here
•  Leave the car behind, have a walk or a cycle ride.

    
     www.gartartanfarmshop.co.uk
     www.thebeechtreeinn.co.uk