Other support organisations and key links

Key partners and how they can help

The tourism sector has many support associations, organisations and enterprises, some of which will be able to help you and your business. Summarised here are some tourism business organisations (national and local) which are recognised as key partners or, indeed, supported by the HIE Network to bring benefits for the Highlands and Islands tourism product. Links to these organisations also appear in the right hand menu.

National

VisitScotland – the lead body responsible for promoting Scottish tourism, and currently leading the review of the national tourism strategy. Its operational objectives are to:

  • Attract visitors by building a successful Scottish tourism brand.
  • Engage and work in partnership with the tourism industry. 
  • Enhance the visitor experience.
  • Providing strategic direction to the industry.

A team of Business Relationship Managers are available to discuss business marketing and development opportunities. Area contact details, can be found using this link: Business relationship managers

Visit the trade site and the consumer site

Activity Scotland -  the trade association for activity holiday providers throughout Scotland, responsible for promotion, trade development, advice and guidance. Email contact is Andrew Warburton saha@netcomuk.co.uk

Scottish Tourism Forum –  the 'voice of the industry'. A membership organisation which is representative of all the major tourism trade associations and businesses in Scotland, the forum provides an advocacy role on behalf of businesses. The scope of their interest includes topics such as transport and communications, e-business, strategy development, and access to the countryside. Contact Ivan Broussine ivanb@tourismtoday.co.uk

Paths for All – a partnership formed in 1996 to meet both resident and visitor demand for paths for outdoor recreation, and for access to work, school and shops. Contact Kenny Steele pfa@ecosse.net

Sail Scotland – the marketing and trade association for more than 100 yacht charter and cruise hire businesses throughout Scotland. Email Sail Scotland at info@sailscotland.co.uk or visit their website.

Scottish Natural Heritage – aims to safeguard Scotland’s natural heritage, particularly its natural, genetic and scenic diversity and to promote enjoyment of, and responsible public access to, the natural heritage in ways that do not damage it. 

Local

 Local Authorities - local government has a key role in tourism and works in partnership with the HIE Network on many projects or initiatives. Contact your local authority for more information. See the Tourism Links page for all local authorities in the Highlands and Islands.

Golf Highland – a private/public sector partnership comprising golf clubs, tourism businesses, Highland Council, HIE Network Local Enterprise Companies, Thurso College and the Highlands of Scotland Tourist Board. Golf Highland aims to maximise the benefits arising from golf tourism throughout the Highland economy.