Top Scot talks up ‘natural’ tourism credentials in the Outer Hebrides

One of Scotland’s most famous mountaineers, Cameron McNeish is helping endorse the Outer Hebrides’ natural credentials as part of the Year of Natural Scotland 2013.

VisitScotland, in partnership with Cormhairle nan Eilean Siar, has launched its latest initiative to get people out and about during this year targeting those living in Scotland and Northern England.

Explore Scotland’s Natural Trail encompasses an interactive digital guide, national print advertising and a radio campaign all focusing on the natural delights to be found in the Outer Hebrides. The voice of Cameron McNeish can be heard on both the digital guide and on radio broadcasts mentioning the various attractions across the Outer Hebrides.

The radio advert highlights the UNESCO dual World Heritage Site of St Kilda and the prehistoric remains on Lewis, including the 5,000-year-old Callanish Stones.

The Outer Hebrides’ beautiful landscapes, outdoor activities, natural larder, wildlife wonders, art in nature and history and heritage are all combined into the easily accessible trails that encourage visitors to follow and experience the islands’ natural joys, such as exploring one of the 5 Nature Reserves throughout the islands.

Cameron McNeish, said:

“This is the Year of Natural Scotland and I would encourage everyone to get out in the Outer Hebrides and discover it for themselves. Here, there are impressive landscapes, wildlife, culture, local produce and historical attractions- and what better way to experience these things than to get involved in Explore Scotland’s Natural Trail and enjoy the natural Scotland we can all be proud of!”

Alan MacKenzie, VisitScotland’s Islands Manager, said:

“We are delighted to work in partnership with CNES during The Year of Natural Scotland 2013, which is a golden opportunity to promote the Outer Hebrides as a great destination for a day out or for an extended break.

The Outer Hebrides are a perfect fit for this themed year boasting so many great natural assets and we’re proud to have Cameron McNeish heading up the Explore Scotland Natural Trail campaign for the region.”

Norman Macdonald, Convenor Comhairle nan Eilean Siar, said:

“Comhairle nan Eilean Siar supports the launch of this digital guide and welcomes this exciting opportunity to promote the unique landscape and natural heritage of the Outer Hebrides during the Year of Natural Scotland.

“The Outer Hebrides provides a memorable visitor experience encompassing stunning landscapes and seascapes complimented by wildlife, a rich culture and history and a warm welcome to visitors. An ideal destination that epitomises all Scotland has to offer nature based tourism.”

Explore Scotland’s Natural Trail can be found at: www.visitscotland.com/naturaltrail

The Year of Natural Scotland 2013 provides visitors with the ideal opportunity to become immersed in all things Scottish, from Scotland’s rugged scenery and the splendour of the national parks to the freshness of the natural larders and the warm welcome from people who passionately care about our wild land.

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