The Lodge Forest Visitor Centre at Aberfoyle is to open its doors to the public again on Monday 19 August following the completion of a major £1.6M refurbishment.
Right at the heart of the Queen Elizabeth Forest Park, the Forestry Commission Scotland run centre has been transformed into a state of the art facility for locals and visitors alike.
Liz Walker, Communities Recreation and Tourism Manager, for the Commission team behind the project said:
“It’s great to finally be at this stage and to be able to throw open the doors to the public again.
“Robertson’s Construction have been in charge of the work and the facelift they’ve given the building is fantastic! It looks refreshed, it feels brand new and I think everyone who comes to see it will be bowled over by what we’ve achieved.
“It’s ready to join the ranks of the top-flight, visitor attractions in the area – one that can really hold its own in a sector that is getting more competitive every year.
“It’s the place to come for a coffee or light lunch, it’s a venue that’s perfect for staging all kinds of events and, of course, it’s the place to come for a brilliant forest experience, whether you want to do a little, or do a lot.”
As well as the upgraded trails you can visit the waterfall or squirrel hide, say hello to the conservation cattle now on site, or maybe even join your children on the nature play features. The more adventurous can cycle the surrounding trails and link up with routes throughout The Queen Elizabeth Forest Park or hook up for a tree-top experience with Go Ape.
To help mark the re-opening there will be 15% discounts on Go Ape adventures (except on Saturdays) and you can book online here using the code LAUNCH or call 0845 643 9215.
During the opening week there will also be 50 goody bags handed out – with some of them containing a ‘golden ticket’ that could win you fantastic prizes such as vouchers for the impressive, new-look café.
Liz added:
“And if that’s not enough of an incentive to join in the celebrations, we’ve teamed up with VisitScotland, Forest Holidays, Go Ape and the Lodge Café to offer an amazing competition prize of a fantastic outdoor experience package - including a 3-night weekend break in a luxury Forest Holidays cabin, a family voucher for Go Ape forest adventure, a bespoke guided walk with Forestry Commission Scotland and a voucher for lunch at the Lodge Café.
“This much loved facility is now most definitely better than ever and open for business, so come along, take a look around and have a great day out!”
To enter the competition tune in to Forth One, Clyde 1 or Tay FM from early August - or visit here