An exciting new event is coming to Inverness. The first ever Highland Adventure Fest 2019, sponsored by Glenmore Lodge, takes place 10am-4pm, Sunday 24th March 2019 at Inverness Leisure Centre. Festival-goers will be able to try out kit, buy new clothing and equipment, book activities and meet new people with similar interests while enjoying presentations and entertainment!

 

Cecilia Grigor, Director at Planit Scotland, the team behind the scenes organising the event said “the Highlands of Scotland have so much to offer yet often people don’t realise the potential in the great outdoors. It really is an adventure playground and so important to get fresh air especially in our digital dependant society. We wanted to show people all the activities on offer that are right on their doorstep and connect them to the right people so that they are equipped to embrace the great outdoors”.

 

A spokesperson for Glenmore Lodge, headline sponsor of the event and sportscotland’s National Outdoor Training Centre, added “we’re delighted to be supporting the Highland Adventure Fest. It is our desire for everyone to discover what a slice of outdoor adventure can bring to our lives. Adventure is for everyone, just pick an adventure that is right for you, give it a go and you never know, you might just get hooked.”

 

Organisations exhibiting at the 1-day event include Explore Highland, Scottish Cycling North, Craggan Outdoors, Bark and Ride Sports, Kayak Summer Isles, Hamlet Mountaineering, Bowhunter Archery, ACE Adventure and Hideaways, Gael Force Marine, Gairloch Canoe and Kayak Centre, Torridon Outdoors, Loch Ness 360, Skye Highland Adventures, Cotswold Outdoors, Walkabout Scotland, You Fish Scotland, Highland Hospice Adventures, Liquid Footprints, Outdoor First Aid Courses, Highland Bikes, Mckenzie Mountaineering, True Grit Events, Highland Defenders, Highlife Highland and Glenmore Lodge.

 

On the day Scottish cycling will be offering skills coaching and encouraging people to get involved in local clubs. James Bracher, Scottish Cycling, stated “We’re delighted to be a part of the Highland Adventure Fest; cycle sport is booming and what better place to showcase what’s on offer for people of any age to develop their interest in the sport. From entry-level racing to national events, social rides to mountain bike adventures – there’s a club, event or group of cyclists ready to welcome you”.

 

Keith, MD at Craggan Outdoors, said “we’re looking forward to this unique event. Recognised as 'Best Outdoor Activity & Learning Centre' in the Scottish Enterprise Awards 2018, our centre ‘Craggan Ourdoors’ offers one of the widest ranges of activities available in the Highlands, as well as 60-bed bunkhouse accommodation & a licensed café venue. All from a fantastic Speyside location in the Cairngorms National Park. Why not come along to our stand for a chat to find out more & see what we can do for you?”

 

Marc Wilson, Marketing Manager at Gael Force Group, said “We are very excited to be involved in Highland Adventure Fest and to have the opportunity to bring the very best of our kayaks, paddle sports accessories and top range clothing from our Inverness Marine Centre down the road to the Leisure Centre”.

 

Tracy Lamb, ACE Adventures & Hideaways, said “we are thrilled to be taking part in what will be a fun day out for all! We offer amazing white water rafting on the River Findhorn. You should come along and find out more, or even book a session for you and friends”.

 

Graeme Ambrose, CEO of Visit Inverness Loch Ness, said “an event like this will help us raise awareness of the LochNess360° trail. An new exciting and beautiful 116km circular trail around the iconic Loch Ness which will be launched by Visit Inverness Loch Ness late spring this year. Starting and finishing in Inverness, the Loch Ness 360° Trail has been created by linking up the Great Glen Way on the north side of Loch Ness with and the South Loch Ness Trail on the south side, completed in 2018. The trail is suitable for walkers, mountain bikers and horse riders and for walkers will take an average of 5-6 days to complete”.

 

A series of informal ‘Adventure Talks’ will take place on the main stage where keynote speakers will share their experience of adventures across Scotland and offer guidance on how to prepare.

 From nutrition to training and inspiration, there is lots to take in.

 

The Highland Adventure Fest will provide fun for all the family! Come along and experience it for yourself, it’ll give you lots of ideas of things to see and do in the coming year plus meet people with a similar love of the great outdoors.

 

Further information is available online at www.highlandadventurefest.co.uk or you can email info@highlandadventurefest.co.uk.