An image of Pitlochry in the autumn has been ranked by VisitScotland as its most popular social media post of Perth and Kinross in 2021.
The stunning photograph which captures the changing colours of the trees on a misty autumn day was captured by @olivergmlewis and attracted more than 45,000 likes when it was shared on the national tourism organisation’s Instagram account, making it the highest performing post of the region last year.
A snowy scene of a forest path in Scone was ranked second most popular post for the region.
The fairytale image, which was captured for social media by @adventursofkerri, received more than 36,000 likes.
The third highest performing post was by @jimboamartin who captured an aerial view of Glen Lyon showing the River Lyon winding its way through the valley flanked by snow-capped peaks that attracted almost 30,000 likes.
Between January 2021 and January 2022, VisitScotland’s Instagram reached people over 183 million times with 460 user-generated posts.
The channel has played an important role in keeping Scotland front of mind and inspiring potential visitors during the global pandemic.
Perthshire Tourism Partnership chair David Smythe said: “I am often asked when the best time is to visit Perthshire.
“Taken in autumn and winter, the top three wonderful Perthshire images perfectly illustrate the awesome landscape ready to be explored and enjoyed.
“Perthshire is a terrific visit at any time, but the light and drama in the off-season, as shown in the images, often astonish our visitors who treasure the wide-open space.”
VisitScotland launched its global marketing campaign Scotland is Calling last year, aimed specifically at overseas visitors who, research suggests, spend longer planning and researching their trips.
VisitScotland regional leadership director Caroline Warburton said: “As these images demonstrate, Perthshire is a fantastic source of inspiration for photographers throughout every season.
“Whether it is awe-inspiring views, stunning scenery or all the colours of the forests, these images have captured some of the many reasons visitors are drawn to the region.
“VisitScotland’s social media channels have played an important role in the last two years in continuing to keep Scotland front of mind and offering inspiration to our global audiences.
“We know there is pent-up demand for travel and we want to ensure that we inspire potential visitors with what Scotland has to offer and make it their first-choice destination when they can travel.
“Our marketing activity reflects our drive to attract visitors to Scotland throughout the year.
“By adopting a regional and geographic approach, we are showcasing the diversity that Scotland has to offer and ensuring that tourism brings benefits to communities right across the country.”