The Great Scottish Adventure

Edinburgh, 9th February 2011 — VisitScotland, the national tourism agency, is offering Canadians the chance of winning their very own Great Scottish Adventure. Stay in a Clan Chief's Scottish castle, experience the thrills of the Edinburgh Festivals, kayak with dolphins and whales off Scotland's islands, treat yourself to the ultimate malt whisky indulgence and explore the secrets of Loch Ness. These five amazing adventures in Scotland await the lucky winner.

For a chance to win a trip to Scotland, visit www.winscottishadventure.com, watch five great adventures and choose three to create and win your own Great Scottish Adventure.

Ewan Colville, North America Marketing Manager, VisitScotland, said, “The Great Scottish Adventure really lives up to its billing. The experiences we've created are Scotland at its very best, from our unique culture and traditions to the stunning iconic scenery of the Highlands and from the magic of our islands to the vibrancy of Edinburgh's Festivals”.

The five adventures are:

• 'Edinburgh's Festivals', a cultural immersion in the world's biggest arts festival, including the world famous Military Tattoo at Edinburgh Castle; and staying in unbridled luxury at Edinburgh's prestigious Balmoral Hotel.
• 'Key to the Castle', live like a Scots Laird when you stay in magnificent Inveraray Castle in the heart of Argyll.
• 'Whisky Heaven' takes you on the famous Malt Whisky Trail in Speyside to enjoy exclusive tours and tastings - a must for the whisky enthusiast.
• 'Wild Isle' is a magical visit to one of Scotland's great west coast islands, Mull, boasting some of Scotland's most spectacular seascapes and wildlife.
• The 'Secret of Loch Ness' takes you on a discovery of the iconic and dramatic waters of Loch Ness in the company of the world's leading expert on the mysterious Loch.

The Great Scottish Adventure builds upon Active Scotland, a year long programme of events and activities aimed at showcasing Scotland as an active and adventure tourism destination, while offering the competition winner a once in a lifetime opportunity to experience Scotland at its very best.

Choose three from five Great Scottish Adventures:

Choose 'Edinburgh's Festivals', presented by Joseph Winders, Chief Concierge at Edinburgh's prestigious Balmoral Hotel, and enjoy the best of Edinburgh, the Festival City. Enjoy two nights stay at the luxurious five star Balmoral Hotel, and tickets to top Edinburgh festival shows and the world-renowned Military Tattoo at Edinburgh Castle.

Pick 'Key to the Castle', presented by the Duke of Argyll, Chief of Clan Campbell, and enjoy a two-night stay in the Duke's ancestral home, Inveraray Castle, along with an exclusive day's fishing with a Ghillie on Loch Awe, plus gourmet lunch at the award-winning Ardanaiseig Hotel

Go for 'Whisky Heaven', presented by Scotch Whisky Expert, Julie Trevisan Hunter, of Edinburgh's Scotch Whisky Experience. Stay at the Home of Malt Whisky, Speyside, for two nights; enjoy visits to distilleries along the famous Malt Whisky Trail, and a private VIP tour and tastings at Balvenie distillery.

Select 'Wild Isle', presented by Stevie Christie, Director of Wilderness Scotland. Explore Scotland's Islands and stay for two nights at the Isle of Mull Hotel. Experience breathtaking views on an exclusive walking tour, view the wonders of Fingal's Cave and enjoy a wildlife cruise in the Inner Hebrides with the chance to spot eagles, seals and much more.

Opt for 'The Secret of Loch Ness', presented by Adrian Shine, Leader of the Loch Ness Project. Enjoy a two night stay at Bunchrew House Hotel, a 17th Century converted Scottish mansion, and get adventurous in Scotland with a 4x4 off-roading experience before experiencing the wonder of Loch Ness with a boat trip on the iconic waters.