World's first rewilding centre opens in the Highlands

The world’s first rewilding centre is set to open in the Highlands tomorrow.

The centre is expected to attract 70,000 visitors every year

Run by the charity Trees For Life, the Dundreggan Rewilding Centre in Glenmoriston, near Loch Ness, is designed to showcase how large-scale nature recovery can give people inspiring experiences, create jobs and benefit rural communities

It will offer a gateway for visitors to explore the 10,000-acre Dundreggan estate, where Trees for Life has been restoring the Caledonian forest and its wildlife since it purchased the former deer-stalking estate for nearly £2 million in 2008.

Up to 70,000 people from around the world per year are expected to use the centre, which has been developed in consultation with the local community and made possible thanks to the support of major funders.

Steve Micklewright, Trees for Life’s Chief Executive, said: "For 15 years, Dundreggan has been a beacon for rewilding our landscapes. Now it will be a beacon for rewilding people too.

"This is a place of hope. We want to breathe life into the huge potential of the Highlands to help nature return in a major way -- providing people from all walks of life with fantastic experiences while supporting re-peopling, boosting social and economic opportunities, and tackling the climate and nature emergencies."

Construction of the centre, on the main road to Skye, began in August 2021. It will open its doors fully to the public tomorrow with a celebratory weekend of events and activities.

The "world-class, environmentally sensitive facility" will be a gateway to the "wild outdoors", including accessible trails, child-friendly forest adventures and more adventurous routes for avid hillwalkers.

The centre, which features as its centrepiece a stunning tree sculpture of reclaimed metal, created by acclaimed artist Helen Denerley, includes a cafe, classrooms, a storytelling bothy and an events space alongside a 40-bedroom accommodation building.

Visitors, families, schools and those with specific needs will be able to enjoy year-round events and experiences, discover how rewilding benefits wildlife such as golden eagles, red squirrels and wood ants, and learn about the area's rich Gaelic culture and its deep connections to the landscape.

Some 20 new jobs have already been created, employing local people, and the centre will generate an ongoing economic boost for local suppliers and services. The design and construction phase has already involved local businesses from architects to plumbers while the nearby Glenmoriston Arms Hotel has seen a boost in bookings and inquiries.

Laurelin Cummins-Fraser, Dundreggan Rewilding Centre Director, said: "Whether a visitor has just an hour for a quick visit or wants to stay with us for an immersive rewilding experience, our centre will welcome people to discover stunning landscapes, unique wildlife and Gaelic culture, while connecting with the wonders of the natural world.

"The Rewilding Centre is embedded in the landscape and the community.”