In 2020, Scotland celebrates its Coasts and Waters with a year-long programme of events and activities. This will shine a spotlight on these vital elements of our landscape. Including its many islands, Scotland boasts a hugely varied coastline and a rich offering of inland waters. You don't have to head to the wilds either. You can discover watery delights in both rural and urban settings. Even our large cities, like Edinburgh an.d Glasgow, have tranquil spots next to the water's edge.
Our Coasts and Waters are host to an amazing array of riches, come in all shapes and sizes, and are greatly valued and cherished by communities and visitors alike. Our lochs, rivers and canals also play an important part in the experience of visiting Scotland. There are many boat trips, fishing opportunities and activity holidays, while nature reserves across the country are home to a tremendous variety of flora, fauna and wildlife.
Check out our daily #YCW2020 photo
There is so much going on during the celebratory year, with festivals and events around Scotland. I will write about those I visit throughout the year on this blog. Alongside this, I will be launching some new Glen2Glen tour ideas based on our coasts, lochs and rivers.
And every day I will try to post a new photo showing off what we have to offer. So to launch my photo-a-day celebration here's a photo from a small bay close to where I live. The beach at Cuil Bay overlooks Loch Linnhe and is a place locals head to swim on a hot day. It's perfect for a summer picnic, a beach barbecue or a gentle wander along the shingle beaches around the Ardsheal Peninsula.
Scotland’s Coasts and Waters have shaped our history: from fishing and textiles to whisky and wave power they have influenced our culture, our stories, our way of life. So whether you want to navigate your way around distant isles or canals, experience Scotland’s maritime heritage at a visitor attraction, enjoy Scotland’s abundant natural larder or discover Scotland’s wildlife on a local boat trip - Scotland’s coasts and waters are perfect for get-away-from-it-all adventures. So what are you waiting for – come on in, the water’s lovely!
Please join in the conversation. I would love to see your photos and hear your stories of visits to the coasts and waters of Scotland. Make you sure you use #YCW2020.