Light is shining at end of ‘Covid-19 tunnel’

Tourist destinations, restaurants and other attractions in the Mearns have undertaken a huge amount of work to get ready for visitors.

Aberdeenshire has in recent years started to “make its mark on the tourism map”, according to the Our Mearns Tourism Association (OMTA) – and as a result the loss of visitors during lockdown has proven to be particularly disheartening to many.

Thanks to more than £200,000 of regeneration funding from Aberdeenshire Council, OMTA says coastal villages and other areas have been rejuvenated.

Now that lockdown is gradually being lifted, businesses in the Mearns are working hard to welcome visitors back.

Jacky Niven, chairwoman of OMTA, said reopening some premises in Gourdon has, however, proven difficult.

She said: “While tourism might be opening once more, there are still challenges ahead.

“Safe distancing measures have made it impossible for the charming wee Maggie Law Maritime Museum to reopen its doors as usual this season, though it is still able to open for group visits by arrangement.”

The Quayside Restaurant & Fish Bar has undergone a renovation during lockdown and, to comply with regulations, has reduced the number of tables and reservations must be made.

Ms Niven added: “The Harbour Bar and the Quayside have had to diversify to make it through the past few months, but there is starting to be a light shining at the end of the Covid-19 tunnel.”