Tourism chiefs find a way of cosying up to winter visitors

FOR years, our Nordic neighbours have had a word for the feeling that gets them through the long winter months.

But now the Scots may have a rival to the Danish concept of ‘Hygge’ with our own term for being snug, sheltered or cosy – Còsagach.

The Gaelic word has been singled out by VisitScotland as a developing lifestyle trend that could attract more visitors .

It is thought that an abundance of Hygge – defined as ‘a quality of cosiness and comfortable conviviality that engenders a feeling of contentment or well-being’ – is to thank for Denmark being regularly named the happiest country on Earth.

Now Còsagach has been highlighted in VisitScotland’s Trends 2018 paper, published yesterday and designed to provoke thought among Scots tourist businesses.

It could boost tourism during the winter months, when visitors tend to stay away.

The paper states: ‘With tranquil seascapes, vast open spaces and many warm and welcoming pubs, Scotland is a perfect place for your well-being.

‘In the winter when the storms rage and the waves crash against the rocks, there is nothing more satisfying than being curled up in front of the fire, book and hot toddy in hand, listening to the weather outside.’

‘Retro-tainment’ – providing nostalgic experiences – is also on the list of trends.