The message is out. Scotland is the best adventure playground in Europe.

Big kids like Scotland. They like adventure. They go sea kayaking in the islands and inlets of the West Coast. They mountain bike on challenging purpose-built trails. And they hit the Isle of Lewis for the most consistent surf in Europe. Then they all do the same thing - admire the scenery while they get their breath back.

To make it easy to search for the ultimate Scottish adventure, VisitScotland has launched visitscotland.com/adventure. This brand new guide gives the latest information on Scotland�s best adventure sports, activity operators and events. Ever wanted to go surfing, ice climbing and sphering in one weekend? How about staying in a castle, lighthouse or in a mountain hut? The website lists over 40 different adventure sports and more than 60 adventure sports operators, embracing the elements of Water, Earth, Adrenalin, Ice and Air. Everything from sea kayaking, sphereing and sled dog racing to skate boarding, snow boarding and sky diving. Heidi Cullen, Adventure Sports marketing manager for VisitScotland said:

�Adventure sports tourism is entering a really exciting phase in Scotland thanks to a potent mix of top quality operators, world class events and innovative sports.

�Anecdotal evidence shows that in some areas of Scotland the number of visitors taking part in adventure sports activity has more than doubled and it�s clear that people now want more challenging activities to do on holiday, especially 25-40 year olds. They also have more money to spend and are not afraid of trying something new. The quality of our operators and the diversity of activities and locations attracts both beginners and die-hard enthusiasts and most importantly keeps them coming back again and again. The web-site will now make this even easier.�

The web-site includes features such as: - A Guide to over 40 Different Adventure Sports Where to go and how to get started - Adventure Operators Listing and Guide Who does what, when, how much it costs and all you need to know - What�s Happening � 2005 Adventure Events & Races Listings & In-depth Features What's on in Scotland from the Tiree Wave Classic to the Dundee Mountain Film Festival - Accommodation & Travel Find out about some of the more unusual places to stay and the easiest way to travel in and around Scotland - Brochure Request The latest Adventure Sports Guide delivered to your door - Weather Forecast Check out the 5-day forecast for all of Scotland - Competitions, Newsletters and E-blasts New competitions each month from surfboards and FatFace gear to win, regular updates and offers

Don�t miss the chance to make the most of Scotland. Click on visitscotland.com/adventure to help you in your search for the ultimate Scottish adventure.

ENDS

For further press information, please contact the VisitScotland press office: Gayle Wilson on 0131 472 2337 or Karin Finlay on 0131 472 2338