This item was published during the term of a previous administration that ended in April 2007
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Scottish Snowdrop Festival
31/01/2007
Many of Scotland's spectacular gardens are to open their gates for the first time this February to offer visitors a rare glimpse of the country's winter beauty.
As part of a bid to attract more tourists during a traditionally quieter time of year, national tourism organisation VisitScotland has launched the first ever Scottish Snowdrop Festival.
Between now and March 11, more than 60 gardens across the country will offer visitors the opportunity to take part in actitivies from picturesque walks to craft fairs and children's competitions.
Tourism Minister Patricia Ferguson launched the event at the Cambo Estate in Fife which is home to Scotland's largest collection of snowdrops.
She said:
"Scotland's natural environment is one of our strongest cultural assets and this festival will help to showcase some of this rich beauty.
"It is great to see so many gardens from across Scotland working together to create an event which will help to drive tourism throughout the country. Tourism is one of the country's leading sectors and events like this help to establish Scotland as a must-visit, must-return destination."
VisitScotland Chief Executive, Philip Riddle said:
"Scotland's beautiful natural heritage is world famous and attracts many visitors all year round.
"I am impressed by the commitment that all the gardens involved in the Snowdrop Festival have shown and would like to thank them for welcoming visitors earlier this year.
"This event will help us grow tourism in a sustainable way by bringing visitors during a traditionally quieter time of year.
"The beauty of the Snowdrop Festival is that everyone can participate, whether you are planning a city break or want to escape to the countryside you can take in breathtaking views of one of Scotland's favorite flowers."
VisitScotland's Sector Development Manager Felicity Madelin said:
"This is the first time that nearly 60 gardens have joined together to create a national festival aimed at increasing visitor numbers to Scotland during the winter season, helping us to grow tourism in a sustainable way.
"The Scottish Snowdrop Festival aims to encourage visitors to explore one of our best assets, Scotland's natural beauty, from gardens and woodlands to parks, country estates and wildlife reserves.
"Many of the gardens and estates participating in the Festival are closed during the winter months but with the assistance of our partners, National Trust for Scotland and Scotland's Gardens' Scheme, we have managed to persuade many to open up to visitors for the first time, presenting the consumer with fresh things to see and do during the traditionally quiet winter season."