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Year of Coasts and Waters 2020-21

Dive into Scotland in 2021 as we celebrate our spectacular coasts and waters.

Times have been difficult for us all recently, but we're ready to help you visit your favourite spots and attractions again, whilst exploring Scotland's incredible coasts and waters that will make your visit all the more memorable. Water is the lifeblood of our green and pleasant country. It's what makes the landscape so special and loved, whether you're exploring the coastline by kayak or paddleboard, wild swimming in one of our famous lochs, savouring some delicious Scottish seafood, enjoying a warming single malt whisky or uncovering the secrets of a coastal fortress.

Keep reading and begin planning your Year of Coasts and Waters trip around Scotland. Make sure you check out our Year of Coasts and Waters Travel Guide and don't forget to share all your adventures and special experiences with us using #YCW2021.

COVID-19 RESTRICTIONS

The majority of Scotland is now under a temporary lockdown, though some island communities are under level 3 restrictions. Please follow any current restrictions - you might need to save these ideas to try later on a future trip.

Find out what level each area is under and read more about the 5-level Covid-19 restrictions to plan and book ahead when considering a future trip. You can search for businesses that are open, and Good to Go, where they have a Covid-19 risk assessment.

Coasts and Waters Events

The events programme that was designed to celebrate the year is currently subject to cancellation and postponement in line with current COVID-19 government advice.

Keep an eye out for new and exciting events making a return to some of your favourite venues and locations across Scotland that will allow you to uncover all of Scotland's coastal gems and more. Make sure you check back for further updates.

Keep Safe

Our coasts and waters offer fun activities for all the family, but it's important to stay safe whatever you're planning to do. Follow the advice from Water Safety Scotland. The Royal National Lifeboat Institution provides helpful advice and tips across a range of pursuits, to ensure you have the best day out.

Our Inspiring Coasts and Waters

Year of Coasts and Waters 20211:53

With seas on three sides, over 125,000 km of waterways and thousands of lochs, water is not something that Scotland is short of.

Most of our much-loved natural attractions and landscapes have been sculpted by waves and water, and are a real sight to see up close.

So what are you waiting for? Taste the salty sea spray in the wind, see shimmering reflections in a still Scottish loch, or wander peacefully along a tumbling river. Join us in 2021 as we celebrate our Year of Coasts and Waters.

Standfoto aus dem Online-Film - Scallop

Scallop Diver - Ben's Story1:31

Let Ben Oakes tell you why nothing compares to going out into the wild to dive, fish and explore in Scotland. He works alongside his dad to place small scallops in the shallows, which are harvested by hand once fully grown. As far as he’s aware, they are the only people in the world who use this method of fishing. For Ben, this is home and he can’t imagine doing anything else.
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It's time to Sail Scotland2:31

If you've ever dreamed of navigating your way around misty isles or gliding gracefully along deep, still waters, then a boating holiday in Scotland is most definitely for you. There are over 100 inhabited islands, over 18,000 km of coastline and many lochs to explore to keep you coming back year after year. Drop anchor at friendly moorings up and down the country and experience our warm welcome ashore for yourself.
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Splash into Scotland's watersports1:01

With over 18,000 km of coastline, around 31,000 lochs and hundreds of miles of rivers and canals, water is not something we're short of here. So what better way to immerse yourself in Scotland, than by trying a few amazing watersports? From whitewater rafting and canyoning to wakeboarding, canoeing and some of Europe's best surfing breaks - doing something on, in or below the water really should be part of your trip plans. 

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A lady in a wheelchair accompanied by her partner and dog enjoy an amble along a sandy beach

Accessible days out

From beach days to watersports and whisky tastings - delve into the range of possibilities!

Read the Euan's Guide top picks for accessible days out celebrating the Year of Coasts and Waters.

Read the guide

Share your coasts and waters experiences using #ycw2020 and #visitscotland!

Other things you might like

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Lochs Near Edinburgh and Glasgow 

7 Great Ways You Can Help Keep Scotland's Beaches Clean 

Where and when to see marine wildlife 

Fishing 

Sailing 

Whisky 

Short coastal breaks and escapes by the water 

Scotland's National Parks and Natural Heritage Sites 

Food & Drink