WIREDGOV

Skiers flocked to Scottish ski resorts during the month of February to take advantage of ideal weather conditions, according to new figures.

• Visitors to Glenshee more than trebled with 7,163 visitors in February 2008 and 31,164 in February 2009.
• Cairngorm had 13,690 visitors compared to 30,219 this year.
• The Nevis range increased from 3,354 to 9,111.
• The Lecht saw the Feburary 2008 totdal of 4,636 rise to 9,821.

Tourism Minister Jim Mather, said:

"This is fantastic news. Obviously, we will have to await final year figures, but these results are really encouraging and are a tremendous boost to the industry and the Scottish economy.

"Tourism is not immune from the effects of the economic situation, but our industry are a resilient bunch and are working harder than ever before to attract new visitors to our country.

"These figures will be widely welcomed by those working so hard to ensure Scotland stays ahead of the game as one of the worlds 'must visit' destinations.

"With some of the most stunning scenery in the world, Scotland has a fantastic range of ski facilities, and it is great to see visitors at home and further afield take advantage.

"This is encouraging to see in this year of Homecoming, and with over 300 events taking place across the country, there is something for everyone.

"A key element of our economic recovery programme is to intensify activity and support for Homecoming in 2009 to boost tourism."

The figures were compiled by the ski resorts.

Related Information

http://ski.visitscotland.com/