Scotland is known for picturesque rolling hills, lochs and Haggis, amongst other things. Now, in a new tourism campaign, Scotland is showcasing adorable Shetland ponies in colorful cardigans.
The cute creatures named Vitamin and Fivla are all in efforts to draw in more visitors to Scotland in a campaigne called "Year of Natural Scotland."
The campaign is being run by Scotland's National Tourism Organization to get visitors to "Come and celebrate Scotland's outstanding natural beauty throughout 2013."
"We've got our very own Shetland pony ambassadors who are helping promote the Year of Natural Scotland with beautifully created cardigans, made just for them," states the website. "Ponies Fivla and Vitamin from the Thorndale Shetland Driving Centre, strike a pose with their new winter woolies."
The pony ambassadors are a unique way to highlight Scotland's natural beauty and culture.
"We were looking for a photo which encapsulated Scotland's stunning natural landscapes, highlighted somewhere a little off the beaten track, and included some true Scottish locals," a spokesperson said to ABC News. "Shetland, and in particular Shetland ponies, instantly sprang to mind."
The ponies are dressed in cardigans that are made from Shetland wool by talented local knitter Doreen Brown.
"It also seemed fitting to incorporate natural products that Shetland produces, and with Shetland wool and knitwear being so in demand, it seemed like a fun way to celebrate Shetlands natural landscapes, products and heritage and focus on these islands to help us promote the 'Year of Natural Scotland,'" said the spokesperson to ABC News.
Shetland ponies are small and only grow to a max height of three and a half feet. They also have a thick, furry coat, partly due to Scotland's climate.
The NY Daily News reported that Fivla and Vitamin come from the Thordale Shetland Stud Centre which is a pony breeding company based in in Shetdale.
"It's safe to say both Fivla and Vitamin didn't seem to mind all the attention their custom made attire brought them," says the Visit Scotland website.
The Visit Scotland website highlights the year of natural Scotland in a number of ways including, natural landscapes,"natural playground, wildlife, flora and fauna and art in nature for example. "From stunning natural and historic landscapes, art inspired by nature, surprising wildlife and delicious food & drink, you can find nature right on your doorstep. Don't miss the chance to experience the great Scottish outdoors for yourself, join in the celebrations with a packed programme of events and discover insider tips from across the country during the Year of Natural Scotland," says the website.
This article is copyrighted by Travelers Today, the travel news leader
