Many people have a favourite spot, a quiet place or a local unknown where they take themselves to switch off, relax, read or enjoy their favourite view; often from the warmth and security of a welcoming venue. Equally, there is something rewarding in a comforting cup of tea and sweet treat after a long journey, invigorating walk or activity. However, finding the perfect café is something most people stumble upon by chance, until now.
VisitScotland’s new Café Days website www.visitscotland.com/cafedays lists over 200 of Scotland’s best cafes and tearooms, showing visitors where they can get a great cup of coffee as well as showcasing the attractions and activities they can encounter in the surrounding area. All the cafes have been nominated and voted for by individuals keen to share their experiences. The campaign was launched at the Birsay Bay Tearoom on Orkney by GMTV's Glasgow-born weathergirl Andrea McLean. Andrea said: “Scotland's a great place to visit if you want to escape the hustle and bustle and try a new activity and it's so quick and easy to get here.
“When I do visit, it is always good to get personal recommendations from local people about what to do and see and that's what is great about VisitScotland's new CaféDays campaign.
“There's no better place to relax and unwind than over a hot cuppa and cake in one of Scotland's best cafés. If visitors know that they can also get great advice about what they can do and see in the area over the café counter, it will help make Scotland a must visit destination come rain or shine!”
Many of the cafes recommended are in the Highlands and Islands. Follow this link to see who is listed. Select Highlands and Islands from the drop down menu to search by region or search by category which includes cafes best for wildlife, short walks, families, gardens, National Trust for Scotland, galleries and museums, and castles.
As well as competitions, travel and accommodation information, site visitors can bag a free set of Café Days recipe cards. The A5-sized cards contain secret recipes from a selection of top establishments and details of the great activities that can be taken in while on a day out to the café.