Out of Hibernation

Active Family

Out of Hibernation

Spring has finally sprung and along with all the new signs of life in the natural world, we’re also feeling renewed and ready to enjoy our great outdoors once again.
And there’s no shortage of options for families who have been feeling more than a little deprived of days out over the winter months.
You don't have to be David Attenborough - or travel on his budget - to get up close and personal with wildlife. Dumfries and Galloway, one of the most underrated family destinations in Scotland, is holding a wildlife festival which continues through to April 13. The event includes activities for all age groups, including the chance to watch wild badgers feeding at the Caerlaverock wetlands centre, or to join the search for bats at the Glentrool Visitor Centre.  Visit www.wildlifefestival.org.uk for details of all the events.

The island of Arran is always worth a visit, but May looks like being an especially good time to make the trip across the water. From May 14-21, the island is host to its own wildlife festival, which includes walks, talks and activities for all ages.
Visit www.arranwildlife.co.uk for information

If adventure sports is more your thing, we’re well into the season for an adrenalin rush. Perthshire’s outdoor playground is open for business, a range of exciting activities on offer on land, water and in the air.
Visit www.perthshire.co.uk for a full range of activities.

Highland Adventure Safaris, which is based in the Perthshire town of Aberfeldy, has a package of specially-designed safaris for the family to enjoy.
Equip the kids with their own binoculars and spy sheets, and let them search the mountain forests for red squirrels, red deer and other exciting forest wildlife.
On every Saturday from now throughout the summer, the Nature Detectives programme offers children the chance to follow a list of clues and answer questions by exploring the wildlife garden, nature trail and lodge interpretation, to enter a prize draw.  Entry is free,
From Thursday May 1-Tuesday May 6, Highland Adventure Safaris is holding its Spring Watch Safari, encouraging everyone to discover what’s out and about in the bird and plant world at the level of 3000ft. This amazing environment is home to unique alpine plants and animals and the views are spectacular on a clear day.
Best thing of all for the kids? They get to travel up there in a 4x4 vehicle. Booking is essential.
For information on all of Highland Adventure Safari’s activities, visit www.highlandadventuresafaris.co.uk  or call 01887 820071 for details.