Eco Retreat - We care about Green Issues
Loving nature, caring about our environment, and living in a Green and Balanced Way are at the heart of Ashwhin
Whilst Scotland does not sound as exotic as the South Seas, we can offer you a unique blend of native wildlife, a variety of beaches, and the ancient sites and castles left by human cultures that lived in harmony with their environment.
Conservation is at the heart of island living, and this consciousness is alive and well in the West of Scotland. Outsiders tend to think Scots are mean, in fact it is more likely the tendency to reuse materials, and to be careful collectors. In my experience Scots are warm hearted and full of good humour, and certain of their place on this planet.
However, they also respect peoples space, so tend to wait for visitors to open conversation. The natives are very friendly if you are!
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Seals, Dolphins, Whales and more -
The seas near Ashwhin are alive with mammalian and fish life. There are many people who run boat tours that allow you to get close to these wonderful creatures in their natural habitat. Also, on wet days there is the sea life centre where rescued seals, otters and an abundance of sea creatures are on display for you to see.
Birds and beasts of the garden -
Ashwhin has nearly 3 acres of garden that is managed as much for the comfort and protection of wild life as for humans, dogs and cats. A dear friend of ours, who is a member of the RSPB and keen naturalist, was delighted to find dozens of species of birds living in the garden or in the shallow bay to the northeast ( overlooked from the terrace).
History and Archeology-
One of the things that I love best about Scotland, and about walking here, is the sense that people have trod these pathways, worked the land, fished the waters, and admired the beauty for thousands of years. In this area there are the remnants of ancient cultures, some of whom will have set foot on a truly virgin Scotland uncovered just after the retreat of the glaciers of the last ice age. Yet, for all its history, and marvellous castles - both ruined and beloved homes - Scotland is ageless.
Living Culture -
If you love music, then the Gaelic culture will bring you joy. Everywhere you go in the West of Scotland and on the Isles there are the living traces of the old ways. Ceilidhs abound with their lively music and dance. Despite the fact that Queen Victoria was the one who brought the kilt to fashionable notice, many local men proudly sport the so called native dress - for it does remind us of the families, the clans and Scottish pride. And who can resist a man in a kilt?
Magnet for Artists -
This area is breathtakingly beautiful, wild, serene, always changing. And it has, unsurprisingly, attracted artists who have come to live and work. There is a fabulous diversity of style and medium in both professional and amateur markets - examples are displayed at the growing number of galleries, art shows and exhibitions, and studios that are tucked all over the area. All of them giving us something unique. Some, many I think, touch us very deeply.
Personal ecological balance at Ashwhin Retreat -
The peace and comfort of the old dairy building with its thick walls to keep out the strong wind and its door onto the terrace and garden gives you a perfect place to relax all year round. The garden is filled with bloom and scents in every season, and the collection of herbs and unusual specimens of plants and shrubs will continue to expand. Holistic and spa therapies can help rebalance your energetic body, reconnecting you to the rhythms of nature, and allowing yourself to just simply BE in the here and now.
Also see Our Green Policy
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A lovely balance of relaxing, playing, site-seeing, therapies and just spending time together...and we loved the reference library!
Bethany & Katrina
Newcastle upon Tyne
England
Just what I needed, a peaceful room with stunning views and refreshing walks along the pebble shores of this magnificent place. Andy and Jessie just the company I needed...
Jane
London
England
A desk (and a room!) with a view! What more could a novel ask for. Thank you for the welcome and the midnight Mischa play!
Rachel
London
England
Thank you to all for a lovely peaceful holiday where I was able to relax. Also for Andy and Jess who showed me the beaches and the woods.
Jodi
High Wycombe
England
It’s been wonderful to have the space and time to simply stop. Love the air, the beaches, and the sense of freedom. Thank you
Carolyn & Tom
Devon
England
A warm welcome awaits - beautiful location - interesting conversation and great variety of therapies. Thank you.
Annemarie
Falkirk
Scotland
I feel like Nicholas Cage in “City of Angels” - although I’d rather be Meg Ryan! Because he found what it was to be a spiritual being in a body. I know what it is to be “grounded”, at last. Had I not met my dearest friend, I would never have found Ashwhin. Thank you. Ashwhin is a place where good things just happen. And I think it’s because it is a place that is truly cherished by all those who live here. Thank you Derby, Peter and family for a great time. (and for reiki)
Louise
Midlothian
Scotland
What a perfect place! Had a lovely relaxing stay, felt very welcome and well looked after.
Catherine
Carlisle
England
A beautifiul, relaxing place. I wish I could stay longer. The pets are wonderful to walk with and talk with, many thanks.
Tracey
Nottinghamshire
England
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