Couples encouraged to make a date with Scotland

VisitScotland has just launched a new anniversary section on the Scottish Weddings website, visitscotland.com/scottishwedding, which encourages couples to come to Scotland to celebrate their special date and provides quirky suggestions based on traditional anniversary gifts.

Denise Robertson, a regular face on the ITV ‘This Morning’ programme, is a relationship guru and novelist who regularly holidays in Scotland with her husband. Denise says, “It is important to take time out of your daily routine to celebrate your relationship and spend quality time with your partner. Taking a short break away to a beautifully scenic location such as Scotland is an ideal way to relax and enjoy some time together”.

Scotland is a naturally romantic country, rich in history, myths & legends, breathtaking scenery, fresh seafood and luxurious accommodation, making it an ideal destination for a special break.

Below are some of the suggestions for celebrating which are noted on the anniversary website.

1st Year - Paper
Celebrate your paper anniversary at the luxurious 5 star Scotsman Hotel Edinburgh, housed within the magnificent internationally known Scotsman Newspaper building. Whilst the newspaper no longer occupies the building, its stunning character and traditional interior remains, particularly in the hotel's North Bridge Brasserie. The hotel restaurant allows you to spy on the world whilst enjoying an intimate meal, making it altogether one of the most sumptuous and desired places to stay in the heart of Scotland's vibrant capital city!

5th Year - Wood
For a relaxing, romantic getaway, stay in and keep cosy by the wood burning stove at Millness Croft, a 5 star self catering cottage near Loch Ness. This working croft has a small private loch and waterfalls and some of the most spectacular scenery in Scotland on its doorstep, including Glen Affric Forest, making it an idyllic location in which to celebrate 5 years together.

15th Year - Crystal
Take a trip to the famous Bonnie Banks of Loch Lomond, the UK's largest freshwater loch and one of Scotland's iconic locations immortalised in poetry by Robert Burns. Loch Lomond has also played host to many weddings, including that of Scottish model Kirsty Hume. Why not toast 15 years of marriage together by taking a cruise over the crystal clear waters with Sweeney's Cruises who run tours all year.

35th Year - Coral
Look out for coral on one of Skye's undiscovered treasures - Coral Beach at the North West tip of the Dunvegan Peninsula. The beach is an extraordinary sight described as a bit of tropical paradise situated in the Inner Hebrides! For a truly magical anniversary celebration, visit in the evening when the setting sun lights the top of MacLeod’s Table across Loch Dunvegan.

For more suggestions and help with planning your special break log on to Visitscotland.com/scottishwedding.