June 2008 and throughout the year, Loch Rannoch Watersports Centre, Kinloch Rannoch. A multitude of activities are available to groups and individuals. Taster sessions for beginners are available all week, while those with more experience can benefit from further training or simply hire one of their boats. All activities are under the supervision of qualified staff, and all necessary equipment can be provided for a safe and enjoyable day, weekend or week away. You can choose from Sailing, Canoeing, Kayaking, Fishing, Boat Hire, Mountain Biking, Quad Biking, Off Road Driving and Safari’s, Climbing, Abseiling, Archery, and multi-activity courses. www.goforth.co.uk

14th to 15th June 2008, Loch Lomond Get Active Festival, Loch Lomond Shores, Balloch. With lots of outdoor activities on offer, which include canoeing, mountain biking, wakeboarding, a 10k race and even an invitation to join an evening canoe trip, there is something for all the family to enjoy. Not only does this event allow people to try a new activity for the very first time, it also makes full use of some of the UKs most incredible scenery. Full details can be found at www.getactivelochlomond.co.uk

18th to 23rd June 2008, Shetland - Bergen Races, Lerwick, Shetland. These ocean yacht races between Bergen in the Hordaland region of Western Norway and Lerwick, the capital of Shetland, are the most challenging and spectacular event of the North Sea. www.visitshetland.com lists full details.

19th to 22nd June 2008, Royal Highland Show, Ingliston, Edinburgh. Scotland's foremost farming and food event promises to be even bigger r and better this year. Held over four days, with over 4,000 livestock on show and 1,000 stands selling everything from speciality foods to 4x4s. There is a wide range of entertainment and demonstrations in skills such as cookery, crafts, falconry and fashion. Further information can be found at www.royalhighlandshow.org    

19th to 22nd June 2008, Borders Book Festival, Melrose. The creme de la creme of the literary world return to the beautiful Borders town for another lively programme of author talks, signings and book events. www.bordersbookfestival.org list the full details.

21st to 22nd June 2008, Scottish Traditional Boat Festival, Portsoy, Aberdeenshire. This is one of the largest gatherings of traditional boats in Scotland, where visitors can discover, enjoy and join in maritime activities. Other items on the itinery are craft demonstrations, a programme of music, dance, drama, food fair and other on-shore family activities. www.stbf.bizland.com

21st June 2008, La Fête de la Musique, French Institute, Edinburgh. For the 26th edition of the Fête de la Musique, the French Institute will host more than 100 musicians, professionals and amateurs alike. They will present many kinds of music, from all around the world. In keeping with the spirit of the event, entrance will be free! Please visit www.ifecosse.org.uk for program listings.

29th June to 5th July 2008, Mendelssohn on Mull Festival, Isle of Mull. A program of open rehearsals, recitals and concerts given by a group of young musicians on the brink of starting their professional careers. The week-long festival plays to packed houses on the island Mendelssohn himself admired so much. www.mullfest.org.uk lists full details.

Throughout the year to 16 Nov 2008, The Local Word and Image 500 Years of Printing in Scotland, Aberdeen. 2008 brings with it celebrations of 500 years of printing in Scotland. As part of these wider celebrations this exhibition will examine the history of printing in Aberdeen. Full details of venues are found at www.aberdeencity.gov.uk