New scenic stops could boost Scots economy

A spectacular series of viewpoints are to be created at the roadside of Scotland’s most scenic routes.

The saying goes that life’s a journey, not a destination and the Scottish Government’s intention is to make that journey part of the holiday in a bid to attract more visitors.

The Scottish Scenic Routes initiative wants to capitalise on the fact that many of the country’s roads offer the ideal vantage point to admire outstanding scenery.

A £500,000 pilot project will see work begin on up to three viewpoints this year two on the A82 in the Loch Lomond and Trossachs and another elsewhere with more to come.

And the best young Scottish designers and architects are being called upon to create one-of-a-kind viewing platforms.

Work has already started on clearing roadside trees to open up exceptional views of Loch Lomond.

Rural Affairs Secretary Richard Lochhead said: “Scotland has some of the most fantastic landscapes and a high quality environment that’s widely appreciated by visitors.

“We want to provide more opportunities to fully appreciate what our countryside has to offer.”

The project is inspired by a successful initiative in Norway, which has 18 remarkable viewing points dotted around the country.

Tourists and Norwegians alike visit the spots on the trail, ticking them off as they go and creating an added incentive for visiting remote parts of the country.

Scotland aims to do the same, by constructing viewpoints not just in the most popular locations but in often overlooked beauty spots to draw more visitors to those areas.

Mr Lochhead continued: “During my recent visit to Norway, I heard of the economic benefits of their National Tourist Routes project and I believe we can do even better.

“I’m encouraged that some organisations are already keen to get involved and delighted to receive joint proposals from Scottish Canals and Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park.”

It’s hoped the project will have a long-lasting effect in supporting tourism and creating new jobs, as well as showcasing Scottish design talent.

Borre Skodvin, an architect involved in Norway’s project, said: “This should do wonders for tourism and architecture in Scotland.

“Certainly, there is every opportunity for success given the wonderful natural landscape in the country.”

Gordon Watson, of the Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park, said: “Roads like the A82 are not just there to get from A to B, they are an experience in themselves. People want to be able to stop and enjoy the scenery.

“It’s not just building laybys, it’s about creating attractions. Who knows, maybe we can even change the name from the A82 to something more appealing like the West Highland Highway.”