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

20 March 2008

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

Considered by many as one of the greatest waterways of the world, the natural beauty of the 60 mile long Caledonian 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 Caledonian Canal .

Visitors can enjoy boating, the core of what British Waterways Scotland does, traversing through exciting towns, spectacular lochs and beautiful countryside along one of the busiest canals in the network. Or visitors can enjoy a relaxing cycle ride through the beautiful, picturesque countryside. For the more adventurous cyclists there are the Great Glen Mountain Bike Trails at a variety of locations, offering off-road cycling opportunities to get the adrenalin pumping.

Visitors can also take a relaxing walk along any part of the Caledonian Canal . With its unspoilt scenery and wildlife it is the perfect way to spend the afternoon, and they may even get a glimpse of Nessy! Visitors should look out for Neptune's Staircase, a remarkable eight lock flight which lies just north of Fort William at Banavie, and the Caledonian Canal Visitor Centre at Fort Augustus which showcases the canal's history.

For the more active, why not use the Caledonian 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 Caledonian 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 Caledonian Canal !

Ends 19 March 2008

For further information:

Paula McNulty? or Lesley Clark Weber ShandwickT?: 0131 556 6649M: 07770 886924 / 07770 886901E: 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