Location

The ​​​Scottish Highlands, Northeast of Pitlochry.  The project is planted on a vast hillside.  Once at the top, there are 360 degrees of spectacular mountain views.

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Design

The planting Scheme mimics ancient Caledonian Forest.  A semi-circle of Scots pine is surrounded by a broad area of diverse native broadleaf species.  A footpath runs through the project and connects to a wider path network.​  The project will be managed as a permanent forest and nature reserve.  There is a large pond, wet meadow and peatland at lower elevation.  The top of the project is adjacent to a large conifer plantation which is being managed for continual cover.

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Native broadleaves are established with a density of 1600 stems per hectare. The species composition will be that of a W17 upland oak woodland with a canopy dominated by sessile oak and downy birch.

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The central core of the scheme is made up of a W18 Pinus sylvestris dominated woodland. There is a transition from sessile oak dominated W17 on the lower slopes, through to a central core of pine and finally a birch dominated W17 at the woodlands highest point. Variable density will feather out the woodland at the top of the scheme to emulate a natural woodland.  Designed open ground areas will be utilised on existing hill tracks to encourage local walking and access.

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Conservation Features

The project provides a conservation buffer to the Cairngorms National Park.  The project enhances two vast areas of mature conifers.

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The landscape is important for a range of Highland species including Scottish wildcats, Capercaillies, Red squirrels, pine martens, ospreys, Golden eagles, Red deer and many more.