Swap the January Blues for Scotland’s Highland Coos

Moo-ving into 2021 will come as a relief to many as they look ahead to the new year with a fresh sense of optimism and the hope of better things to come. VisitScotland is sharing that optimism and spreading joy with a special Coo Year message courtesy of its very own Highland Coos (cows).

***Highland cows on the coastal road between Applecross and Shieldaig***

While the beginning of 2021 might look a bit like another December 2020 so far, there is a fresh sense of hope for the future. VisitScotland is keen to try and put a smile on your face with a brand new fun and quirky initiative.

A favourite amongst visitors and locals alike, the Highland Coo is ever-present on souvenirs, memorabilia and Insta posts from Scotland which are shared with friends and family around the world. This year, the Highland Coo comes to you thanks to VisitScotland’s Coo Cam.

As international travel restrictions continue, VisitScotland is hoping this video will bring a smile to the faces of those whose Scotland trips have been cancelled whilst also inspiring future visits… at the end of the day, it’s hard to resist the cuteness of a Highland Coo!

Making their screen debut, Highland Coos from Kitchen Coos and Ewes in Dumfries and Galloway and Swanston Farm in Edinburgh have a starring role in a candid video encouraging Scotland fans across the world to swap the January blues for Scotland’s Highland Coos.

Enjoy a guided experience among Highland cattle and sheep from a purpose-built trailer at Kitchen Coos and Ewes. The farm is situated in the Galloway and Southern Ayrshire UNESCO Biosphere and offers a unique experience to get up close to livestock and experience farming life

Captured on a GoPro Hero 8, more affectionately known as the Coo Cam, Highland Coos were filmed throughout the month of November enjoying their day-to-day lives against the breath-taking backdrop of Scotland’s world-renowned scenery. From using a tree as a scratch post, making their moos heard and having a good nosey at the camera, the Coo Cam provides an access all areas perspective to life on the farm. Throughout the year new videos will be released on VisitScotland’s social media platforms featuring Highland Coos from across the country.

The Coo Cam pays homage to some of Scotland’s cutest ambassadors but don’t be fooled by their fluffy exterior; these legendary animals are hardy souls – standing tall against some of the harshest of weather conditions. Despite their name, Highland Coos can be seen across the whole of Scotland with many companies offering experiences from farm stays, buggy tours, Hairy Coo Safaris to afternoon tea with a coo… sometimes visitors will be lucky enough to see a herd casually hanging out at the side of the road!

Now it’s not just Scotland that awaits future travellers in the Coo Year, it’s Thelma, Louise, Cairistiona, Breagh and Janima too! Who can say no to that invite?

Covid-19 update

When travel is possible again, all visitors to Scotland must consult the Scottish Government website at www.gov.scot, VisitScotland’s website www.visitscotland.com, the local destination website and contact their accommodation providers, transport providers and any attractions they plan to visit to ensure they are aware of all rules, restrictions and safety procedures relating to Covid-19.
Visitors should look for the Good to Go logo. This is a new industry-wide standard and consumer mark developed to demonstrate that the business has completed a Covid-19 risk assessment to ensure they have everything in place to open safely.
International visitors should check current quarantine and government-imposed travel restrictions.