Suidhe Viewpoint
Sustainable & responsible tourism in Scotland
Find out about sustainable and responsible tourism in Scotland. Including differences between sustainable and responsible tourism, and more.
What is sustainable or responsible tourism?
Sustainable tourism is holidaying in an eco, green and environmentally friendly way.
Responsible tourism is considering the wider impact your trip could have on the country you're visiting, and the world.
Your choice to travel responsibly can help:
- protect the landscape
- boost the local economy
- provide funding for new and innovative projects
Braewick Caravan & Campsite
Choosing a destination
Consider visiting during less popular times of the year and discover places off the beaten track.
Spring holidays & breaks in Scotland
Spring in Scotland is a great time to visit. The longer days mean hours of playtime during your Easter holiday and nature is bursting into life.
Summer holidays & breaks in Scotland
Find ideas and inspiration, from family days out to top camping spots, walks and outdoor activities.
Autumn breaks
There's lots to do during autumn in Scotland. Find inspiration for half-term breaks and autumn holidays from family days out to walks and activities.
Winter and Christmas breaks
The weather may be chilly, but the welcome will be warm. You haven't seen anything like Scotland's Christmas celebrations.
Canisp, Cul Mor and Cul Beag seen from Stac Pollaidh
Summer hidden gems
If you are travelling during summer, why not consider visiting some lesser-known places this time? We've got plenty of ideas for places off the beaten track which will still give you an amazing experience.
Slow down and stay longer
Taking more time to explore Scotland can help you experience destinations more deeply and travel at a gentler pace. Longer stays can give you greater flexibility, opportunities to discover local businesses and communities, and the chance to revisit places in different weather, seasons, or times of day.
Take the Slow Road – Historic Environment Scotland
Slow Travel Scotland: See the Best of Alba – Matador Network
Fraserburgh Beach
© Discover Fraserburgh / Damian Shields
Travel more mindfully
Scotland's public transport options are great for travelling sustainably around the country.
Your ultimate guide to cycling in Scotland
From the rustle of woodland trails beneath your wheels to views across mountains, glens and sea, Scotland is made for exploring by bike.
Explore Scotland sustainably
Discover eco-friendly businesses, responsible tourism ideas, and lower-impact ways to explore Scotland. From sustainable accommodation and eco tours to slower-paced travel experiences, there are lots of ways to make your trip more mindful while supporting local communities and places.
Sustainability certified hotels – Booking.com
Scotland holidays – Responsible Travel
Galloway Distillery, Newton Stewart
Respect the landscape
You should always be respectful of the landscapes and communities you visit. We ask everyone to tread lightly and consider how their behaviour impacts each other and Scotland.
Scottish Outdoor Access Code
Explore Scotland's outdoor land responsibly by following the Scottish Outdoor Access Code, which applies to most land and inland water.
From Deep Time to Our Time
Filmed across the Cateran Ecomuseum, watch how the destination champions car-free holidays by using low-carbon ways to travel.