YOU’LL NEVER WALK ALONE
Stunning images celebrate the unique friendships which are built and cemented for years to come while walking in the wilds of Scotland
Stunning snaps capturing the pure joy of walking in Scotland
Scotland is a walker’s paradise. From those hardy souls who are determined to bag all 282 Munros and 222 Corbetts while they still can, to those of us who are dragged reluctantly from the sofa into the hills on a chilly Sunday afternoon by our furry four-legged friends, we all experience the benefits of getting outdoors. But the euphoria of reaching the summit of a hill or completing a walk is made all the more sweet when it’s shared with friends or family.
The stunning images that make up this feature are just a selection from ‘Walking Pals’, a Ramblers Scotland photographic competition aimed at celebrating the special friendships enjoyed while walking in Scotland. I’m sure you’ll agree that they are an inspiration to even the most reluctant hikers.
The winning shot is by Glaswegian hillwalker Alan Watt (see page 49). ‘This was taken in May 2016 when Glasgow Ramblers were climbing Cruach Ardrain,’ says Alan. ‘It was a perfect day out – clear skies, great views and a good mix of friends in the group.
‘Getting our group to stand in the right place for a photo is challenging, but I got myself to the far side of the lochan before the group arrived. Amazingly, they stopped in the right place. Someone was doing their first Munro, but our novice Munro bagger got the bug and has done lots since then. How satisfying to be instrumental in that.
‘It’s a real honour to have won, especially as there were so many other excellent entries. My picture shows what for me is the perfect day out walking in Scotland – with clear skies, great views and a good mix of friends.’