6 EXPLORE SCOTLAND SCOTLAND IS CALLING!


With staycations and holidays at home still on people’s minds (now that people have rediscovered the beauty on their doorsteps), we take a look at bonny Scotland, our stunningly scenic neighbour, only a few hours ferry ride from Belfast...


I


T’S time to tread lightly. Scotland is calling. Pack your bags and take an electric road trip to see what you can find and uncover new hidden gems. Go and explore Scotland’s glens by bike, or walk high up into the hills for stunning views.


Find a peaceful beach on one of the islands, or experience the magic of one of the lively cities. Tuck into delicious artisan food, and sip from freshly- opened casks.


You can do all this in Scotland and still tread lightly upon our earth. From that very first moment you see Scotland, the


port of Cairnryan coming into view from the deck of the ferry - stop, breathe deep and take it all in. Prepare to discover the untouched landscapes and bustling communities, exploring in a way that puts Scotland’s best foot forward. Appreciate the wonder and beauty within, helping to protect it all for generations to come.


SUSTAINABLE & RESPONSIBLE TOURISM IN SCOTLAND


Responsible travel and tourism can mean lots of


different things to different people. But what we all definitely share is a desire to keep Scotland as beautiful as ever, for now and for future generations. Responsible tourism is about considering the wider


impact your trip could have on the country you’re visiting, and the world. Responsible travel and tourism is important regardless of which country you decide to visit.


Travelling responsibly can help:


• protect the landscape • boost the local economy • create more money for funding new and innovative projects Your holiday in Scotland can have a positive impact on the landscapes and communities, just through a few simple choices. There are also ways you can offset your travel, and make your trip more sustainable and eco- conscious.


Scotland is home to many iconic and famous landmarks and locations, which feature at the top of many wishlists. If you want to visit these places, consider travelling out of the peak summer months. If you are travelling during summer, why not consider visiting some lesser-known places this time?


Here are some new things to try: 1. CRUISE ALONG LOCH NESS


It’s Scotland’s most famous loch, and a truly iconic stop! Take a Nessie hunting boat trip along these mysterious waters of Loch Ness and soak in the atmosphere of one of the Highland’s most stunning landscapes.


2. GO OVER THE SEA TO SKYE


A visit to the magical Isle of Skye will stay in your memories forever, with her rugged misty mountains and crashing coastlines. In the summer months, you’ll find that you’re not the only one itching to witness the magnificent island’s beauty spots. Visit in the spring or autumn to see the island from a different perspective.


3. WITNESS THE WHITE SANDS OF THE OUTER HEBRIDES


The white sandy beaches of the Outer Hebrides are often mistaken for Caribbean islands on our social media channels. In particular, Luskentyre Sands on the Isle of Harris. This beach is world-famous and is a stunning sight to behold and a trip to Harris wouldn’t be complete without seeing it.


4. COMPLETE THE NORTH COAST 500 The North Coast 500 is a must for anyone who loves


the freedom of the open road. It explores the northern tip of Scotland, a beautiful and enchanting part of the country.


5. EXPLORE EDINBURGH CASTLE There are not many cities around the world that have


a castle watching over their every move. But that’s one of the reasons Edinburgh is so special, and a visit to the castle is the first stop for many visitors to the capital. Home to fascinating military history mixed with ancient


Check out the local wildlife #coos


geology, the castle dates to the 12th century. 6. SEE THE KELPIES


The Kelpies, designed by Scottish sculptor Andy Scott, are the largest pair of equine sculptures in the world. Towering above the Forth & Clyde Canal, The Kelpies are a feat of engineering, each made with 300 tonnes of structural steel, and are a monumental tribute to the horse power heritage that was vital to the early industries of central Scotland.


7. STAND ON THE BONNIE BANKS OF LOCH LOMOND


Picturesque Loch Lomond is one of the most romantic spots in Scotland. Admire the beauty of the loch at the viewing platform at Inveruglas, where you can enjoy amazing views of Ben Lomond. It’s also the starting point for the Three Lochs Way walking route and two iconic hikes, Ben Vane and Ben Vorlich.


8. VISIT A WHISKY DISTILLERY A visit to Scotland isn’t complete without an outing


to a whisky distillery to taste Scotland’s National Drink. Sample whiskies from the five whisky distilling regions: Lowland, Highland, Speyside, Campbeltown and Islay. Most distilleries offer tours and tastings so you can learn about the distilling process, flavours and unique qualities of every dram. Buy a bottle and take it home with you.


9. BAG A MUNRO There are in total 282 Munros across Scotland,


and with their immense views and incredible sense of achievement, chances are you will want to ‘bag’ a couple. Munros are mountains over 914 metres high and they can be found all over Scotland in places including Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park, Cairngorms National Park, Perthshire and the north west Highlands.


For more information on travellint responsibly and all the things you can see and do in Scotland, visit visitscotland.com


HERE are just a few things we think you will love doing in Scotland in the year ahead.


1. DELVE INTO THE YEAR OF STORIES 2022


Great stories stick with us


forever. From JK Rowling to Robert Burns, Walter Scott to Ian Rankin, Scotland has inspired many creative minds and captured imaginations for centuries. Whether you’re visiting the


Writers’ Museum in Edinburgh, the Orkney Folklore and Storytelling Centre, you will hear stories and folklore, old and new, from communities all over Scotland. Heading on a tour? Meeting a local in a pub? Scouring the shelves of an independent book shop? You can expect to hear some great tales, wherever you go.


Throughout 2022, keep an eye


out for events and celebrations during the Year of Stories.


2. UNBOXED: CREATIVITY IN THE UK


In 2022, UNBOXED presents a ground-breaking celebration


of


creativity taking place across the UK, featuring free, large-scale events, installations and globally accessible digital experiences – it is the UK’s most ambitious showcase of creative collaboration.


Scotland’s contribution, Dandelion, will demonstrate the power of collective action in a Scotland-wide ‘grow your own’ initiative. Rooted in Scotland, with an international outlook and sustainability at its heart, the Dandelion programme follows the arc of the growing season, from April to September, and will culminate in hundreds of harvest festivals across Scotland – reimagining the cultural celebration of harvest for the 21st century. Beyond Dandelion, Scotland


will also host five other projects presented as part of UNBOXED.


3. REDISCOVER THE JOY OF OUR CITIES


Scotland’s cities sure know how to impress. With so many new things to enjoy, you might need to make yourself at home in one of the cities’ neighbourhoods so you have time to discover it all.


Don’t miss some of these exciting goings on:


In Edinburgh, shop all the trends or grab a bite to eat in the food hall in the new St James’ Quarter before visiting a classic Edinburgh attraction. The Scotch Whisky Experience on the Royal Mile is a wonderful way to learn about whisky and the Royal Yacht Britannia in Leith is always a fun day out. Over in Dundee, the waterfront is the place to be. Enjoy the feeling of the sand between your toes at the new city beach or pop into Discovery Point Dundee, located on the shoreline and beside V&A Dundee, to discover the Antarctic research vessel Captain Scott’s RRS Discovery. Book a night at one of the coolest hotels, Sleeperz, which has one of the city’s best views of the waterfront and River Tay. Aberdeen’s Provost Skene’s House is one of the city’s oldest buildings and is being transformed into a museum featuring interactive


January 2022 Travel News


Scotland is a beautiful country, full of history and nature... be sure to travel responsibilty and sustainaibly in 2022


10 REASONS WHY YOU SHOULD VISIT SCOTLAND IN 2022


displays of the life and achievements of well-known faces from the north east of Scotland. Footballer Denis Law, singer Annie Lennox and football manager Sir Alex Ferguson along with many others, will feature in the Hall of Heroes, expected to open in the autumn of 2021. Not to be missed! Check out more new happenings in Scotland’s cities.


4. ESCAPE TO SOMEWHERE NEW AND UNIQUE


In Scotland, you have a pick of accommodation options which will help you feel far away from your everyday routine. Meditate in the mountains or chill by the coast, and you’ll head back home with a fresh perspective. Try Knockinaam Lodge, a boutique hotel in Dumfries & Galloway, with 10 stylish rooms within a historic hunting lodge. With a 3 AA Rosette restaurant, discover a secluded, luxurious stay and some much- needed peace and quiet. Take an active break with Scot Mountain Holidays who specialise in guided and self-guided walking and biking holidays, exploring some of Scotland’s most incredible scenery. Your package will include transport, meals and accommodation, so you just need to bring your sense of adventure! Head up north to Croft 103, a family croft which is now the ultimate escape for couples in the north west Highlands. The croft is a mixture of cutting-edge design, traditional craftmanship and sustainability. Flee here to discover true luxury in amongst some of the Highlands’ most untouched wilderness.


5. VISIT AN UNUSUAL


DISTILLERY A distillery visit might well be


on the agenda for your visit to Scotland. Have you heard of these new distilleries which are planning to open soon? The new and innovative Port


of Leith Distillery will be the first vertical distillery in Scotland! Head down to Leith when it opens and grab a drink at the top floor bar. On Princes Street, make a visit to one of the most exciting new attractions, spread over eight floors – the Johnnie Walker Experience! It’s bound to be one of the hottest spots in town.


6. GET READY FOR A GOLDEN YEAR FOR GOLF


The Open is returning to the Home of Golf, St Andrews, for its 150th year. Book your tickets to see all the pro golfers in action, competing on the Old Course for the prestigious claret jug. Just a few metres from the first


tee, the R&A World Golf Museum has just re-opened its doors. This year is the perfect time to embrace 400 years of golf history and enjoy the views from the rooftop café.


7. KEEP IT SIMPLE WITH A RURAL WAY OF LIFE


If you’re looking to escape the city or town life and get back to nature, come and experience Scotland’s countryside. There are lots of farm experiences to enjoy and it’s becoming quite the trendy thing to do!


Whether you’re making friends


with Highland cows at Kitchen Coos and Ewes in Dumfries & Galloway, tasting the homegrown produce on offer at Wilson’s Farm & Kitchen in the Scottish Borders or staying over at the farm at Newton Farm Holidays in Angus, learning about life on the farm could be just the activity for you in 2022.


8. IMPROVE YOUR WELLNESS BY THE WATER


The restorative qualities of being


in, on, or near water have been proved to increase our wellness and wellbeing. Luckily, in Scotland, we’re never too far from a calm loch or coastline. Let your stresses wash away with activities or holidays near the water. Scotland is a top place for sports like wild swimming and paddleboarding, but we’ve also got plenty of other water wellness experiences to help you hit the reset button.


Scotland’s coasts and waters offer


fun activities for all the family, but it’s important to stay safe. Whatever you’re planning to do, follow the advice from Water Safety Scotland.


9. REFUEL WITH


SUSTAINABLE FOOD AND DRINK EXPERIENCES


Food and drink – it’s always an important part of any holiday. Enjoy exciting foodie experiences all over Scotland.


Try some of these unique and sustainable experiences. Visit the Scottish Tea Factory


in Crieff, a micro tea factory with a wee tea garden. Try tea tasting and blending classes and discover your favourite flavour. Head over to Ayrshire and treat yourself to a six-course dinner at Glenapp Castle. The fish and shellfish are line-caught or hand- dived off Scotland’s west coast and the beef, lamb, and pork are farmed just a few miles from the castle. Taste a delightful Kirsty’s Gin the


from Arbikie Distillery in


Angus. It is named after the Master Distiller, Kirsty Black, who carefully chose the botanicals to represent the landscape and surroundings.


10. HEAD NORTH TO ORKNEY AND SHETLAND


There’s never been a better time


to visit the northerly isles of Orkney and Shetland. These islands are so excited to welcome you to their shores, or welcome you back after a wee while apart.


Here are just a couple of highlights to enjoy:


In 2022, Scapa Flow Museum on Hoy will reopen its doors after a huge renovation, to tell the unique story of Orkney’s wartime history. Hoy is a unique part of the archipelago. It might remind you more of the north Highlands than the other Orkney isles, with tall cliffs, sandy bays and heathery hills all around. It’s most famous for the iconic sea stack, the Old Man of Hoy which stands at 137 m. You can see it along a three-hour round trip


walk from the spectacular


Rackwick Bay. In Shetland, discover some of the most incredible landscapes, coastlines and island adventures in Scotland. Why not make this the year you visit somewhere truly unique and remote, such as the islands of Foula or Unst, both home to just a few inhabitants?


Page 1  |  Page 2  |  Page 3  |  Page 4  |  Page 5  |  Page 6  |  Page 7  |  Page 8  |  Page 9  |  Page 10  |  Page 11  |  Page 12  |  Page 13  |  Page 14  |  Page 15  |  Page 16  |  Page 17  |  Page 18  |  Page 19  |  Page 20  |  Page 21  |  Page 22  |  Page 23  |  Page 24  |  Page 25  |  Page 26  |  Page 27  |  Page 28  |  Page 29  |  Page 30  |  Page 31  |  Page 32  |  Page 33  |  Page 34  |  Page 35  |  Page 36  |  Page 37  |  Page 38  |  Page 39  |  Page 40  |  Page 41  |  Page 42  |  Page 43  |  Page 44  |  Page 45  |  Page 46  |  Page 47  |  Page 48