Prestigious award for Highland hotel

A Highland hotel set on the edge of a sea loch with beautiful views of the Torridon mountains has achieved VisitScotland’s most prestigious Quality Assurance (QA) accolade. The Torridon has achieved a 5 Star Gold award from the national tourism organisation.

The joint initiative between VisitScotland and the Scottish Government, with support from Scotland Food and Drink, aims to form stronger links between the places people visit and the food and drink experiences on offer.

Staff at The Torridon pride themselves on it being a sustainable business and holding a gold award within the Green Tourism Business Scheme (GTBS). GTBS is the largest and most established scheme of its type in the world and is an important part of Scotland’s future towards a sustainable tourism destination.

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Cruise Loch Lomond

ONE of Scotland’s oldest family businesses has become one of only four five-star tours in the west of #Scotland following a grading from VisitScotland.

Sweeney’s Cruise Co, operating boats on Loch Lomond since the 1880s, has received the top grading from the national tourism organisation’s Quality Assurance (QA) Scheme in recognition of its exceptional standards. The QA Scheme is a benchmark for quality across the tourism industry and operates across accommodation, visitor attractions and food sectors.

Based in Balloch, the business started out as a few rowing boats but now operates one of Scotland’s most luxurious passenger fleets, offering eight different cruises on board five vessels. After over 130 years, it has come to know every inch of Loch Lomond’s 23 miles, varied wildlife and wealth of history, legend and folklore.

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On the runway . . .

THE launch of a daily service between Frankfurt and Glasgow which was announced by Lufthansa has been welcomed by VisitScotland.

Lufthansa already flies from Munich to Glasgow five times per week on Monday, Wednesday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday, and the new route from Frankfurt further underlines the airlines commitment to the Scottish market.



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Hoppy to be in Scotland

IT'S believed that beer has been brewed in #Scotland for more than 5000 years and with more than 115 breweries, stretching from the Valhalla Brewery on Unst in Shetland to Portpatrick Brewery near Stranraer, Scotland is in the midst of a craft beer revolution.

Scotland’s Craft Beer Map will allow beer lovers to plot their very own ale adventures as they work their way around the country discovering some of the finest craft brews.

The new map from VisitScotland currently holds details of more than 70 producers, with more expected to be added in future. Virtual visitors can explore beers by region, find their favourite brands and embark on tours and tastings.

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Go wild in Scotland

SCOTLAND'S international reputation as a key destination for experiencing world-class wild landscapes and outstanding wildlife is to be boosted by Trees for Life joining a prestigious and growing European association of rewilding projects.

The conservation charity was invited to become a member of the European Rewilding Network – placing its restoration of the globally unique Caledonian Forest in the Highlands, especially in Glen Affric and Glenmoriston, firmly on the European map.

A key focus of the network is to show how rewilding – the restoration of damaged natural ecosystems – can benefit economic development, including through nature-based tourism, wildlife watching and volunteering opportunities.

A review of Scotland’s wildlife tourism sector by VisitScotland this year highlighted how the country’s landscapes, nature and wildlife are key reasons for people to choose it as a travel destination. Research in recent years has also shown that wildlife tourism generates an estimated £276 million a year for the Scottish economy.

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Count those Castles

RESEARCH has revealed that almost half (49%) of Brits have never visited a Scottish Castle, VisitScotland is encouraging visitors to get castle-bagging.

The research - which comes as the 2017 Year of History, Heritage and Archaeology comes to a close - also reveals that the Queen’s Holiday Home, Balmoral Castle, is Scotland’s second best-known castle (53%) after the iconic Edinburgh Castle, which 80% of British people were aware of.

In total, #Scotland is thought to have around 3000 standing #castles, ruins and documented sites. Of these, about 1050 are merely sites, including those where a house has been built on the site of a previous castle and about 825 are standing ruins. At the last count, around 660 were in use (private house, hotel or wedding venue) and around 469 were open to the public, though some only for a couple of weeks each year.

Aberdour Castle in Fife and Castle Sween in Argyll are thought to be two of the oldest datable standing castles in Scotland, dating from around 1200 and the youngest castle in Scotland is thought to be Carbisdale Castle which was built in 1907.

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You're Welcome

HOT on the heels of being awarded the accolade of most beautiful country in the world, #Scotland is now officially the most welcoming country in the world, according to Rough Guides. 

Scotland has natural beauty in spades, munros, lochs, stunning isles and more, with a personality to match; consider everything from ceilidh-ing with strangers to chats with Glaswegian taxi drivers!

As Rough Guides states, “Whether you’re propping up a bar in Edinburgh or trekking the hills of Glen Coe, you’re sure to feel a warm Scottish welcome from whomever you meet.”

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The first Instagram Travel Agency opens in Scotland

VisitScotland has brought the digital world to IRL bricks-and-mortar, by opening the first ever Instagram Travel Agency: allowing visitors to build their own #holidays to #Scotland based entirely around other people’s Instagram photos.This digital twist on the high-street holiday experience combines the enormous amount of inspirational content available online with the expertise and guidance that only the traditional travel agent can offer.

The #ScotSpirit Instagram Travel Agency magics away the time spent researching holidays online. Upon arrival, Instagram inspiration is delivered via a resplendently crisp floor-to-ceiling screen displaying hundreds of Instagram photos of Scotland At this state-of-the-art picture wall, visitors, with the assistance of staff, select their favourite ‘#ScotSpirit’ Instagram images of Scotland’s sights, restaurants, experiences, hotels and more.

The personable and knowledgeable staff then use a customer’s cherry-picked Instagram pictures to curate their perfect Scottish holiday suggested itinerary; crafted around their unique personal preferences and schedules. Visitors can then take the itinerary away to book in their own time.

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Scotland: Year of History, Heritage and Archeology

FROM the Iron Age to the Roman Empire, from Vikings to Jacobites, from epic battles to great escapes, September has been a month of historic proportions with a jam packed calendar of events celebrating Scotland’s 2017 Year of History, Heritage and Archaeology.

Rounding off the month is a three day festival, set to take place in Stirling, History Live (29 Sep – 01 Oct) will showcase Scotland’s rich and diverse history and cultural heritage in the heartland of Scotland’s historic past. From the exciting opening concert at the Church of the Holy Rude to tours of buildings not previously open to the public such as Bannockburn House, the action packed weekend is the perfect way to end a spectacular September of historical events.

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Check Mate & a Dancing Fiddle

FROM a Roman distance slab to a medieval football, Antarctic goggles to a dancing fiddle- VisitScotland has revealed the top 25 objects that have shaped Scotland’s history in a stunning 25 objects ebook.

The list was unveiled on International Chess Day (20 July) as a special nod to the most famous chess pieces in history – the Lewis Chessmen - who feature at number 9 on the date ordered list.

Compiled by an expert panel for the 2017 Year of History, Heritage and Archaeology, the 25 objects cover over 5000 years of Scottish history and the length and breadth of the country from Shetland to Dumfries and Galloway.

The objects were chosen based on chronological and geographic spread alongside their individual interesting stories. The final 25 were chosen by a panel that included representatives from Historic Environment Scotland, National Museums of Scotland, Society of Antiquaries of Scotland and VisitScotland.

VisitScotland hopes that visitors will go on a trail this summer to discover as many of the objects as possible and in turn discover more about Scotland’s fascinating past.

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Ride to the Borders

VISITSCOTLAND is encouraging visitors to travel to the Scottish Borders by train this summer to experience the region’s unique Common Ridings and festivals in the Year of History, Heritage and Archaelogy, and provide a boost to the local visitor economy.

The opening of the Borders Railway in September 2015 means that the traditional Borders Common Ridings and festivals are now more accessible than ever before. As part of the Borders Railway Blueprint partnership, the national tourism organisation seeks to maximize benefits from the new Borders Railway.

Next up is Selkirk Common Riding on Friday 16 June when the solemn casting of the colours ceremony follows the Riding of the Marches, which commemorate the times when their forbearers patrolled the boundaries of their settlements on horseback.

Throughout the summer weeks, each Borders town then takes its turn to celebrate its remarkable history and unique identity with hundreds of horses and their riders gathering to follow the chosen principal in:Ride to the

• West Linton Whipman Play, 2-10 June.
• Peebles Beltane Festival, 18-24 June.
• Melrose Festival Week 18-14 June with the rideout on Monday 19 June.
• Galashiels Braw Lads Gathering from 23 June with the Braw Lads Day on Saturday 1 July.
• Jedburgh Callants Festival from 24 June with the Common Riding on Friday 7 July.
• Duns Summer Festival 2-8 July.
• Kelso Civic Week 16-22 July with the Yetholm Ride on 22 July.
• Lauder Common Week from 30 July with the Common Riding on Saturday 5 August.
• Coldstream Civic Week 6-12 August.

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Take a break . . .

AS one of the quietest destinations in Europe, #Scotland is the perfect place to enjoy some peace and calm. In fact, the recent Scotland Visitor Survey, commissioned by VisitScotland, revealed that almost a quarter of visitors’ #holiday in Scotland to ‘get away from it all.’

A growing interest in our physical and mental health has led to increased interest in #wellbeing tourism as holidaymakers embrace the chance to take a break from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Scotland’s stunning vistas, wild open mountains and hushed hideaways make it the ideal location to unwind in a warm, welcoming atmosphere.  Hidden hideaways to help you get away from it all:

Croft 103

You’ll find these unique eco-art cottages on the shores of Loch Eriboll.With wood stoves, feather topped beds and outside solar tubs, it is the perfect romantic Highlands hideaway. These stunning low impact buildings benefit from the very best in traditional craftsmanship and cutting-edge contemporary design. Croft 103 is the ultimate escape for couples who want to be a world away from it all – together.

High Sea Hobbits

These unique little hideaways are a great reason to escape to the country. Hidden inside their unusual exterior you’ll find all your usual home comforts from comfy beds to cooking equipment. Set in their own field on a small family run farm on the North East Coast of Aberdeenshire, the Hobbits, which sleep up to 4 people, combine the fun of glamping, the peace of the countryside and the adventure of farm life to create an unforgettable family experience.

The Old Pine Yurt

Ancient Scots pine trees provide a magical backdrop for your stay at The Old Pine Yurt. Located on the secluded foothills of the spectacular Cairngorms Mountains, with just surrounding nature for company, this is a camping experience like no other.The handcrafted yurt is equipped with all the usual home comforts including a cosy double bed, solar lighting, a wood burning stove and a dram to welcome you.Nearby you’ll find the ‘Hut’ with kitchen and toilet facilities as well as an eco-shower.

Isle of Eriska

If you prefer a touch of luxury when it comes to secluded hideaways, the five-star Isle of Eriska Hotel, Spa and Island, near Oban, is situated on a private island and can only be accessed from the mainland by a small bridge. Covering 300 acres, the 25- bedroom hotel boasts a Michelin-starred restaurant, its own golf course, nature reserve and spa.

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Forth Bridge voted Scotland's greatest man-made wonder

THE Forth Bridge has been voted Scotland’s greatest man-made wonder in new research by VisitScotland as part of the Year of Innovation, Architecture and Design 2016.

The 126 year old bridge and UNESCO World Heritage Site pipped Edinburgh Castle, The Kelpies and the Glenfinnan Viaduct to take the top spot, with 30% of the votes in the survey.

Other ‘wonders’ on the list include Stirling Castle, Falkirk Wheel, Caledonian Canal, Scott Monument, Bell Rock Lighthouse and Melrose Abbey.

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360 degrees in Scotland

A new interactive online experience of some of Scotland’s most spectacular viewpoints is set to put adventurous visitors in a spin during the Year of Innovation, Architecture and Design 2016.

The videos allow viewers to spin the screen 360 degrees to give a complete panorama. The national tourism organisation hopes the interactive films will inspire visitors to pull on their hiking boots, get on their bike or grab their climbing gear and sample the beautiful Scottish landscape for real.

The great outdoors is one of Scotland’s most attractive assets, with 49% of visitors inspired to come here due to the scenery and landscape. One in 10 respondents to the #Scotland Visitor Survey 2015 visited Cairngorms National Park while one in five took in Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park.

Last year 9 million day visits in Scotland by domestic visitors included outdoor activities as part of their trip, which amounted to £186 million in expenditure.

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Picture Credit: due_mele flickr.com/photos/52181296@N06/10568302225 Trail from Loch Lomond up Atop Ben Lomond, Scotland  via photopin

Craft beer boost for Scottish tourism

VISITSCOTLAND is urging the craft beer industry to capitalise on the lucrative food and drink tourism market, which is worth almost £900 million a year to the country’s visitor economy. 

A report by VisitScotland, conducted with The Brewers Association of #Scotland, says the increasing interest in craft beer in recent years has mirrored similar consumer trends in the tourism industry. ‘The growth in interest from younger demographics, most notably millennials, has driven a search for products that are authentic and give an honest representation of their brand.’

The tourism board has launched a Spirit of Scotland craft beer to highlight how the craft beer trend could be worth millions to tourism.

Malcolm Roughead, chief executive of VisitScotland, says: ‘The rapid growth of Scotland’s exciting craft beer industry in recent years and the popularity of sampling local produce by visitors, creates a fantastic opportunity to tap into a new market of craft beer tourism.

‘It is clear from the research that there is real interest Scottish craft beer from across the globe, leaving the industry well placed to follow the likes of the whisky industry and other Scottish produce in becoming a real draw for visitors near and far.

visitscotland.org

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Heritage tourism action plan launched

PLANS have been made for Scotland’s heritage tourism strategy in preparation for 2017’s focus year of History, Heritage and Archaeology. More than eight million visits are made annually to Scottish heritage attractions such as #EdinburghCastle, Skara Brae, Blair Castle, and Traquair House. 

The plan will deliver Scotland’s heritage tourism strategy and create heritage-themed trails. It will connect with groups such as battle re-enactment societies and tap into the appetite for genealogical and archaeological tourism.

A three-year action plan has been developed by the Heritage Tourism Group comprising Historic Environment #Scotland, National Trust for Scotland, Historic Houses Association, Scottish Ancestral Tourism Group, VisitScotland, Scottish Enterprise, and the Scottish Tourism Alliance.

Stephen Duncan, chairman of the Heritage Tourism Group and director of commercial and tourism at Historic Environment Scotland, said: ‘Scotland’s fascinating historic sites, stunning landscapes, and attractions are a truly unique asset and an important element of the country’s wider tourism offering. The plan aims to increase opportunities to work with others in the sector to nurture heritage tourism in Scotland and build the foundations for the years ahead.’

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Spirit of Scotland campaign given charitable edge

THE FAMILY HOLIDAY ASSOCIATION IS working with #VisitScotland to raise the profile of social tourism, helping more people benefit from a break away from home.

As part of VisitScotland’s Spirit of Scotland campaign, the charity and the national tourism body have worked with accommodation providers, attractions, and transport companies across to add a charitable edge to the #ScotSpirit campaign.

Donations of short breaks and free passes from a number of businesses across the country will allow almost 100 vulnerable and disadvantaged Scottish families the opportunity to experience more of the Spirit of Scotland for themselves. The Family Holiday Association will work with charities and support organisations to identify families who will benefit the most from these breaks.

Malcolm Roughead, chief executive of VisitScotland said: ‘As the national tourism organization, it is our role to ensure Scotland is an inclusive, welcoming destination for all. With one in three people unable to take a holiday in Scotland due to economic, social, or health concerns, many are missing out on the significant benefits a short break can bring. Whether it’s visiting a beach for the first time, or encountering one of Scotland’s beautiful mountains, we want to raise the profile and importance of social tourism through our Spirit of Scotland campaign.’

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Get those hound-pounds!

WITH almost a third of holidaymakers basing their entire holiday around how suitable the destination is for their pet – and 72% of dog owners saying they would take more holidays in the UK if there was a better attitude towards dogs – VisitScotland is urging businesses to expand their #pet-friendly potential. 

A report by the national tourism organization highlights ways businesses can improve their animal instincts, potentially providing a multi-million pound boost to Scotland’s visitor economy. Research found that holidays with pets had an average spend of an extra £126 compared to holidays without them, while more than two thirds consider their dogs as family members when booking holidays.

The pet market has continued to grow in recent years and is now worth more than £4 billion. With an estimated 12 million households in Britain owning a pet, including 8.5 million dogs, the economic benefits of expanding pet offerings to domestic visitors could be hugely significant, says VisitScotland.

Analysis of searches on visitscotland.com found that there was 95% more interest in pet-related searches compared to searches for romantic holidays.

The release of the trends paper follows the launch of VisitScotland’s search for an ‘Ambassadog’ to set their ‘paw of approval’ on journeys across Scotland. It looking for a four-legged friend to follow in his or her owner’s footsteps, taking in everything Scotland has to offer – all to be documented on social media.

Malcolm Roughead, chief executive of VisitScotland, said: ‘#Scotland is the perfect destination for pet owners, with our spacious parks and award-winning beaches providing an excellent environment for furry friends. Pet tourism has the possibility to be worth millions to Scotland’s visitor economy and this latest paper offers some great tips for businesses on how to become more pet friendly, unlocking the potential of this lucrative market.’

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Just the ticket for Scotland

VISITSCOTLAND has partnered with ScotRail and ferry operator CalMac to create a pass offering unlimited travel around the country. The Spirit of #Scotland Travelpass allows people to travel by rail, ferry, and coach for one fixed price.

Passengers do not have to book individual tickets for every journey, and can save money, with a round-trip of Scotland costing 27% less than booking the tickets separately.

The pass will be promoted with a £150,000 marketing campaign across Britain.

Malcolm Roughead, VisitScotland chief executive, said: ‘The Spirit of Scotland Travelpass acts like a special key, unlocking amazing and breathtaking parts of the country to those who visit and live here. Rather than having to think in advance where you might want to go or what you might want to see, you can decide on a whim and end up wherever the wind, or indeed spirit, takes you.

‘Tourism is the heartbeat of the Scottish economy – supporting communities and creating jobs in every corner of the country.’

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VISITSCOTLAND launches first ever global campaign

VISITSCOTLAND says it is bringing the spirit of the country to life in its first ever global campaign. Launched by Scottish first minister Nicola Sturgeon, the campaign aims to raise the spirit and profile of #Scotland. 

The campaign will aim ‘evoke emotion’ through TV, radio, print, digital advertising, and social media. It is one of a series of initiatives that changes the way VisitScotland markets and sells the country around the world. A new website has been launched to enable tourism businesses and organizations to expand.

People across the world will be asked to share their experience of the spirit of Scotland through #ScotSpirit and in doing so become part of a ‘special movement’ with social, economic and charitable aims.

As a starter, VisitScotland has introduced ‘The Seven Spirits of Scotland’ – key traits that can be found within the characters of the people and landscapes of the country:

• Warmth
• Humour 
• Guts Spark 
• Soul 
• Determination 
• Fun 

The Seven Spirits will be used throughout the campaign, encouraging visitors, residents, and those who just love Scotland to reveal what the Scottish spirit means to them.

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