A SCOTTISH island has been named in a top travel guide's list of the “best epicurean regions” in Europe.
The Isle of Skye was listed alongside famed European destinations such as Tuscany, Piedmont, and Copenhagen in the Lonely Planet guide.
The book of “Gourmet Trails” in Europe reports: “While there's long been a fine dining undertone on Skye, a new wave of no-frills sheds, trucks and restaurants slinging oysters, pizzas and pastries keep it affordable for most, with dining establishments often headed up by local people, for local people.
“You'll often find restaurateurs who've never left the island relying on their childhood friends, multi-generational fishermen, to supply produce, while distillers craft small batch spirits inspired by the nature around them.”
Oysters, scallops, venison, seaweed, and wild garlic were among the local foodstuffs highlighted by the guide.
On the island, the Lonely Planet guide recommended, among others, the Isle of Skye Baking Company near Portree (above), the renowned The Three Chimneys restaurant, and the croft produce at An Crùbh.
Red Skye, Edinbane Lodge, and The Oyster Shed are also among the outlets mentioned in the “gourmet” guide.
In June, Calum Montgomery, from Edinbane Lodge, was named Scottish Chef of the Year at the Scotsman Scran Awards.
In a marketing pitch for its latest food book, Lonely Planet says it will “take you on a tour of the best epicurean regions”.
It says the gourmet trails will help travelers to “unearth unforgettable experiences around Europe that will take you to bustling farmers' markets, rustic taverns, innovative restaurants, decadent chocolateries, revolutionary eco-distilleries, vibrant pop-up bars and beyond”.
Founded in Australia in 1973, Lonely Planet is perhaps the most recognisable travel book brand on earth.
The first edition of the firm’s “Gourmet Trails Europe” can be purchased online with a recommended price of £17.99.
