The friendly welcome of Scottish people and its stunning scenery were listed as the highlights of a holiday in Scotland in new research commissioned by national tourism body VisitScotland.
Visitors from England and Wales, Scotland, Germany, France, Italy and Canada took part in the survey between July and September last year. Seventy two per cent of all visitors described Scotland’s scenery as the most important factor in choosing Scotland for a holiday with the friendly attitude of the locals also featuring highly.
When asked about the activities they participated in whilst in Scotland, the research showed that UK visitors welcomed the opportunity to take walks, tour the country, explore the scenery and generally relax:
Seventy eight per cent of those visitors surveyed from the UK spent time exploring the Scottish scenery (lakes and mountains). VisitScotland’s White Winter Campaign gives prospective visitors access to over 170 of Scotland's finest hotels, guest houses, B&B's and self catering accommodation offering fantastic winter accommodation deals in the most scenic areas of Scotland.
For more white winter offers visit www.visitscotland.com/white The White Winter promotion lasts until the end of March 2008 For information on snowsports and snow conditions visit http://www.visitscotland.com/ski
Eighty five per cent of UK visitors went on short walks (less than 2 miles) during their visit to Scotland and 52% went hiking (longer than 2 miles). VisitScotland’s new Walk in Scotland 2008 brochure gives detailed information and route maps for 54 great walks, information on long distance routes, walking events and festivals, accommodation and outdoor access. The dedicated VisitScotland walking web site includes more than 900 walking routes, 59 walking operators and the walkers welcome scheme has 1300 members across Scotland.
To obtain a copy go to www.visitscotland.com/walking
According to the research, 68% of UK visitors enjoyed touring around the country with many enjoying its cafes and tea shops. The best cafes in Scotland (according to the public) will be officially recognised in a new Scottish Café trail launching in March. Nominations included memorable café experiences based on the location, nearby activities, atmosphere, service or simply amazing cakes. For more information on the Scottish Café Trail visit http://www.visitscotland.com/cafedays
Nearly two thirds of all UK visitors (59%) enjoyed wildlife watching whilst in Scotland. Winter brings a flurry of wildlife activity in Scotland. The high tops attract only the hardiest of species such as the ptarmigan and mountain hare, whilst the coast is the time of year to see thousands of migratory species. Scotland is home to three quarters of the British population of red squirrels and winter is one of the best times of year to see this endangered species.
For the latest news on wildlife events across Scotland go to http://www.visitscotland.com/wildlife
Or why not seek the thrill of white-tailed eagles? These birds of prey are an amazing sight to see in the winter sky, with their distinctive white tail and brown plumage. They can be seen year round in the west of Scotland. Skye Wildlife Tours: 01471 820047. Full day tours from £20pp - pre booking essential!
Stay at Eileen Iarmain Hotel, in Sleat, Isle of Skye, 3 nights for £99
Situated on the harbour front this is a truly romantic setting with magnificent picturesque panoramic sea views, across the Sound of Sleat to the lighthouse built by Robert Louis Stephenson's grandfather and the wild peaks of the Knoydart hills.
VisitScotland’s UK & Ireland Group Marketing Manager Helen Campbell commented: “People love to visit Scotland for its pristine landscapes and the feeling that here they can really get away from it all. We have put in place a variety of initiatives to enhance the visitor, offer them value for money and provide them with the necessary tools for making the most of their stay.”
