Residents in a tiny Scottish village with an unfortunate name have been invited to the capital of Austria in a tongue-in-cheek gesture by its tourism board. The entire population of Dull in Perthshire, estimated to be around 100 people, have been invited to Vienna free of charge in the new year to assess whether the famed European city “falls flat” in the months after Christmas.

The Vienna Tourist Board described the “cultural initiative” as an opportunity to “settle the pressing question” of whether the Austrian capital becomes “dull” in January, in spite of its UNESCO treasures and world-renowned cultural and culinary scenes.

“Who better to judge whether Vienna is ‘dull’ than the citizens of Dull themselves?” a spokesperson asked. Representatives for the board hand-delivered wax-sealed invitations to each home in the hamlet last month, alongside Viennese goodie bags, inviting recipients to stay at the iconic Hotel Imperial and enjoy a tailor-made itinerary based on their interests.

While other major cities wind down post-Christmas, January in Vienna marks one of its “liveliest seasons”, including the reopening of one of the world’s largest ice rinks, according to the board.

Other activities in the cards for Dull residents include attending the Vienna Ball of Sciences, receiving dance lessons and exclusive tours of the Kunsthistorisches Museum and the Vienna State Opera.

It will signal a dramatic change of pace for Dull locals, whose homes are dotted around a hilly and remote part of central Scotland with an ancient Christian monastic history.

Norbert Kettner, CEO of the Vienna Tourism Board, said: “We’re proud of our museums, our concerts, our balls and our winter magic – but we also enjoy a good sense of humour.

“January is often considered the dullest month of the calendar, which is exactly why we wanted to bring Dull to Vienna.

“It’s the perfect opportunity to show how vibrant this season can truly be. We hope many residents will join us, and we’re eager to hear their expert judgement.”