Scotland's 'Waterways' Urge You to Spring into Summer! - Crinan

20 March 2008

British Waterways Scotland is encouraging everyone to explore and enjoy one of Scotland 's greatest assets, the Crinan Canal . Whether it is sailing, canoeing, fishing, cycling, jogging or walking, Scotland 's canals offer many ways for visitors to 'spring into summer'!

Once described as the 'most beautiful shortcut in the world', the natural beauty of the nine mile long Crinan Canal is a refreshing backdrop to any day out or holiday. And to help visitors maximise their visit, British Waterways Scotland has launched a new pocket sized guide which includes a map detailing all the exciting things to do along the Crinan Canal .

It takes approximately six hours to transit the Crinan Canal so visitors can easily enjoy boating, the core of what British Waterways Scotland does. But boaters do not need to rush, this can be a relaxing sail, enjoying the magnificent surroundings and exploring the area. Or visitors can enjoy a relaxing cycle ride through the beautiful, picturesque countryside. The towpath, which runs the complete nine miles, is ideal for a cyclist to explore.

Visitors can also take a relaxing walk along any part of the Crinan Canal . With its unspoilt scenery, wildlife and quiet villages it is the perfect way to spend the afternoon. Visitors should look out for VIC 32 in the Crinan Basin , the last true working steam puffer which now operates as a holiday touring vessel.

For the more active, why not use the Crinan Canal as an outdoor gym. Firmly anchored logs or boulders are perfect for step-ups whilst park benches come in handy for the odd tricep dip. Joining the 'outdoor gym' of Scotland 's scenic inland waterways is one of the healthiest and inexpensive ways to get fit this spring and summer.

The Crinan Canal is part of Scotland 's 200 year old canal network, and plays host to a variety of events throughout the Spring/Summer season, so everyone can enjoy the Crinan Canal !

Ends 19 March 2008 

For further information:

Paula McNulty? or Lesley ClarkWeber? ShandwickT?: 0131 556 6649M: 07770 886924 / 07770 886901 E: pmcnulty@webershandwick.com / lclark@webershandwick.com

Notes to Editors

British Waterways Scotland

Responsibility for inland waterways in Scotland is a devolved matter, with funding for British Waterways' Scottish activities coming from the Scottish Government. In Scotland the 137-mile (220km) canal network includes the Caledonian, Crinan, Forth & Clyde, Union and Monkland canals.

British Waterways Scotland works in partnerships with local authorities, voluntary groups, private companies and other government agencies to protect and enhance the waterways and benefit the communities through which they run.

The organisation balances the conservation of the country's heritage and environment with developing commercial opportunities to generate income to reinvest in the waterways for further sustainable regeneration.

Millions of people enjoy Scotland 's inland waters for recreational activity, sports and leisure. Safety is British Waterway's top priority. Water safety advice and information on the safe use of Scotland 's canals - both on water and waterside - can be found on our websites.

www.britishwaterways.co.ukwww.waterscape.comwww.scottishcanals.co.ukwww.thefalkirkwheel.co.uk