New campaign promotes county as luxury destination

UK-based tourists in search of luxury wellbeing travel are the targets of a new publishing campaign promoting East Lothian.

National tourism organisation VisitScotland has joined with Visit East Lothian, the region’s destination marketing organisation, to showcase luxury breaks in top lifestyle magazine, Marie Claire.

Entitled ‘Why East Lothian is Scotland’s best kept secret’, the article features places to stay, where to eat and drink, and a selection of wellness experiences in the area. It is hoped the campaign will entice couples and groups from south of the Border by tapping into the immersive experience travel trend.

According to recent research on UK trip intentions, Scotland is in the top three most popular holiday destinations for the first half of the year, behind London and the South West of England.

Businesses featured in the Marie Claire article include Grey walls Hotel and The Bonnie Badger in Gullane, the Marine Hotel and Osteria restaurant in North Berwick, Carfrae Farm, near Gifford, and Wander Women outdoor adventures.

Neil Christison, regional director at Visit Scotland, said: “Research shows that Scotland remains front of mind for many visitors this year and our latest activity with East Lothian Council aims to tap into that captive market.

“Immersive and authentic travel remain popular trends and the campaign touches on just some of those luxurious visitor experiences the area has to offer. Tourism is an important part of the local economy, creating jobs and sustaining communities.”