Scotland is the star of BRAVE the film

Gilly Pickup explores Scotland, the land that inspired Disney Pixar's new film Brave

Scotland is seen in all its magnificent glory in Disney Pixar’s latest film, Brave. Set in medieval Scotland, the film captures the landscapes, ancient architecture and storytelling spirit that inspired the filmmakers. The country’s idyllic lochs come to life in shimmering hues while shadowy forests, glens and mythical standing stones are replicated in stunning computer animation, never before seen on the big screen.

The star of the show is Merida, (voiced by Kelly Macdonald), a skilled archer and stubborn daughter of King Fergus (voiced by Billy Connolly) and Queen Elinor (voiced by Emma Thompson).

VisitScotland chairman Mike Cantlay said: “The film will be shown in 72 countries worldwide. Scotland has long been the inspiration for many iconic films, books and stories and we hope that ‘Brave’ will be the inspiration for Scottish fans of the film to holiday at home and explore the regions which proved so inspirational to Disney Pixar.”

So, following in the spirit of Scotland, here follows some Brave-inspired activities for visitors to try:

Practice Archery like Merida
Beecraigs Country Park, Linlithgow: nestled in the Bathgate Hills near historic Linlithgow, Beecraigs caters for a range of leisure and recreational activities within its 370 hectares, including archery, fishing, cycling and orienteering.

Laggan Outdoor Activity Centre, Dumfries and Galloway: Have a go at outdoor and indoor archery here. Following an initial lesson, you can move on to the Archery Range.  Set in a forest, Castle Laggan Attack dares competitors to conquer the castle.

Craggan Outdoors, Cairngorms:  Archery is the most popular of their varied activities here.  Their range of recurve bows are suitable for most ages.  If you’ve never tried archery before, you can be taught the basics and have plenty of time to practice, before trying some fun games.

Dunnottar Castle, Stonehaven

Be King of the Castle
Dunnottar Castle, Stonehaven:  Dramatic, evocative, this cliff top fortress now in ruins is located in a stunning setting.  This once impregnable castle holds rich secrets of Scotland’s colourful past.  William Wallace, Mary Queen of Scots, the Marquis of Montrose and the future King Charles 11 all visited the castle. A few soldiers held out here against the force of Cromwell’s army for eight months and saved the Scottish Crown Jewels, the ‘Honours of Scotland’ from destruction.

Eilean Donan Castle, Dornie, by Kyle of Lochalsh:  One of Scotland’s iconic images, Eilean Donan is recognised worldwide.  Surrounded by majestic scenery, it was first inhabited from the 6th century.  The first fortified castle was built in the mid-13th century and stood guard over the lands of Kintail.

Ring of Brodgar, Orkney

Marvel at Standing Stones: Myths and Legends
Ring of Brodgar, Orkney:  Part of the Heart of Neolithic Orkney World Heritage Site, this is a spectacular stone circle with a mysterious past.

Callanish, Isle of Lewis:  Whenever you might visit, these ancient stones have a magical quality that never fails to arouse emotion. Come here to commune with the past.

Meet Clydesdale Horses Like Angus
National Museum of Rural Life, East Kilbride: Escape to the countryside for a day of family fun at this five-star museum and historic working farm.  Meet Mhairi the Clydesdale horse, a tall lady at 1.83 metres and weighing just under a tonne!

By Gilly Pickup

Factbox:
More on the film ‘Brave’ at www.visitscotland.com/Brave

More about Scotland, what to see and do and where to stay at www.visitscotland.com/surprise

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