GREEN ETHOS

100% committed to doing what we can for the environment

Our Environmentally Conscious Approach

Here at the Courtyard Bothy, we are 100% committed to our green ethos.
This means that we have an environmentally conscious approach towards running our small self-catering business and this is considered with every decision we make and action we take.
Green values really are at the heart of everything we do!

ENERGY

The Bothy’s south facing solar panels absorb natural light through to generate electricity. Our energy supplier is a 100% green energy provider. We draw down electricity overnight when demand on the grid is lower, and store it in our battery for use during the day. The air source heat pump heats the water and provides heating - essential in our changeable Highland weather!

Interior kitchen of the Courtyard Bothy, Grantown on Spey, near Aviemore

We have a 7kw EV charger for easy charging of your electric vehicle. Low charge rates are available overnight so your car is ready for exploring each morning.
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With limited access to public transport, it's easier to explore in your own car. Calculate carbon generated by your journeys here.

Pretty solar lights decorate the outside space!

Interior lounge area of the Courtyard Bothy, Grantown on Spey, near Aviemore

We encourage responsible energy consumption by asking guests to turn off lights and appliances when not in use, regulating room temperatures mindfully and being aware of water usage.

Towels and linens are changed on request during longer stays giving you the choice to use them for longer if you wish, reducing energy consumption.

NATURE

Our pretty courtyard garden is full of plants to attract bees and insects.

We grow blueberries, apples and rhubarb in the garden for you to enjoy.

Exploring the breathtaking natural surroundings is a highlight for guests. We ask you to keep to the marked trails, respect wildlife habitats, and refrain from littering. Keep dogs on leads when birds are nesting and pick up their mess.

By following these simple guidelines, you can help us to preserve the pristine beauty of the Cairngorms National Park for generations to come.

PEOPLE

We love living here and supporting our community. We help at events and sit on committees delivering projects for the town.

Our cleaners, The Spotless Cleaning Company, prepare the Bothy for every guest. They employ local staff, pay above the living wage, are committed to staff development and use green cleaning products.

A welcome basket of Scottish goodies greets you. Other essentials reduce food wastage.

We provide information on local shops / services and encourage you to engage with our community.

PLANET

There are recycling bins in the Bothy, and we ask you to separate your waste accordingly. We provide eco-friendly washing-up liquid and cleaning products for your stay.

Scottish Fine Soaps toiletries are available for you to use during your stay. The refillable 500ml bottles reduce plastic waste.

Lots of information is in the Bothy to help you explore from the door on foot, by bike or public transport, thereby reducing car emissions.

WORK IN PROGRESS

There’s always more to be done to look after our little piece of the planet!
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In order to keep us on the right track, we’re currently working on our application for the respected Green Tourism Award and Karen has recently completed Green Champions Foundation Learning.

Read more about Green Tourism here
Look out for more details on this soon!