Tourism Secretary Fiona Hyslop announced the funding on a visit to Doune, where the castle has seen an increase in visitor numbers as a result of it featuring in the Outlander TV series and in the pilot episode for Game of Thrones.
A partnership between Stirling Council, Historic Environment Scotland and Kilmadock Development Trust, its £239,560 award will help deliver improved paths and facilities to encourage visitors to the castle to explore the wider village, benefitting local businesses.
It is one of 13 projects across Scotland benefiting from a share of nearly £3 million from the second round of the Rural Tourism Infrastructure Fund (RTIF) which is aimed at helping meet the demand of growing visitor numbers. Other successful projects include:
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• £273,632 to create new toilets and showers along with signage at An Laimhrig pier, Eigg
• £184,506 to enhance visitor access and protect iconic landscapes and internationally important habitats at the Old Man of Storr on Skye
• £80,500 to provide new car and coach parking spaces, toilets and a seating area to deal with increased visitor numbers to Pluscarden Abbey in Moray
Ms Hyslop said: "Scotland's breathtaking natural scenery and rich historical sites are attracting a growing number of visitors from around the world. While this is great for bringing jobs and investment, it can also put pressure on communities, services, transport and facilities – particularly in rural areas.
"This funding will help the tourism industry keep pace with the upsurge in interest by developing and maintaining much needed infrastructure such as new pathways, car parks and facilities at some of our most iconic rural and natural attractions, benefiting local communities and visitors alike. This investment is crucial so that visitors from home and abroad can continue to enjoy our fantastic landscape, culture and hospitality for years to come."
