Scottish Crannog to feature on new virtual reality tourism app

Perthshire’s Crannog could be “visited” by armchair tourists from around the globe after being included on a new virtual reality app.

It’s hoped the ScotlandVR experience will inspire users to come and see the iconic attraction, which sits on Loch Tay, for real and enjoy a first-hand experience of Perthshire.

The Scottish Crannog Centre on Loch Tay is one of 26 leading Scottish visitor destinations featured in the innovative new tourism app, which enables prospective visitors to take a virtual visit across the country.

As well as soaring above the ancient loch-dwelling, users may also stroll around the prehistoric village of Skara Brae in Orkney, fly over Edinburgh Castle, journey into the depths of Ben Cruachan, the Hollow Mountain or stand under the Northern Lights.

Featuring state-of-the art 360˚ imagery and footage, the journey begins in a virtual glen complete with moo-ing Highland Cow, crackling fire and bellowing stag. From there, users can jump into a map of Scotland and experience 26 unique attractions covering every region of the country.

The whole environment can be experienced in Stereoscopic 3D when used with a Google Cardboard virtual reality headset, or in 360˚ view using gyroscope technology in phone mode.

The app is a result of the collaborative effort and pioneering spirit of Scottish academic, technology and tourism sectors.

Jim Clarkson, VisitScotland regional partnerships director, said: “The Scottish Crannog Centre is a fantastic example of the first-class tourism offering we have here in Perthshire. I am delighted that it features in VisitScotland’s exciting first venture into the world of virtual reality.

“I’m sure virtual visitors will be blown away by the beauty of the Scottish Crannog Centre and Loch Tay and I hope that this inspires them to come and experience the region and its many other attractions, in person.”