The Courier & Advertiser (Fife Edition)
Norman explores hidden gems in Angus Glens Walking Festival
After decades of walking through some of Scotland’s most beautiful scenery, countryside ranger Norman Greig still enjoys getting out and sharing the view with as many people as possible.
“I started hill walking around the time I began working in Scotland in the late 1980s,” he says.
“The first Munro I climbed was Ben Nevis with a few friends and as time went by I ticked off a few more.
“But it hasn’t been all about ‘bagging Munros’ – coastal walks, forest trails, country parks, glens and river paths have all been an enjoyment in their own way.”
Norman is the chief countryside ranger with ANGUSalive’s countryside adventure team, the organisers of the Angus Glens Walking Festival. For the past three years he has been responsible for planning the walks covered by the festival.
“The Angus Glens Walking Festival was launched 16 years ago and I very quickly volunteered to lead the walks,” Norman explains.
“My experience has grown over the 10 years and I have gotten to know the glens of Angus pretty well, including Glen Isla, Glen Doll, Glen Prosen and Glen Esk.
“The walking festival has introduced thousands of folk from all over Britain to what I have called in the past, the hidden gems of the Angus.”
Norman goes on to say that visitors can experience all the things he enjoys about walking, scenic landscapes, solitude (if that’s what you’re looking for) and, of course, wildlife.
“I very much enjoy being out on the hills, particularly to enjoy the tranquillity of the countryside and to observe the wildlife and scenery,” he continues. “I am very enthusiastic about the walking festival and being a part of the team getting people out into the hills and glens of Angus.
“The glens are no longer one of Scotland’s hidden gems, on account of the hundreds of walks promoted by the festival over the years, as they are now better known and enjoyed by visitors and residents alike.”
The walks, which are led by experienced mountain leaders and countryside adventure rangers, meet up from the base camp at Kirriemuir Town Hall where buses take walkers to the start of the walks and bring them back to base at the end of the day.
“I hope the weather will be kind, so that everyone can enjoy the scenery, wildlife and landscapes with a degree of comfort,” Norman adds. “If not – and you get wet and cold – well isn’t that the challenge?
“You will perhaps get an even bigger sense of satisfaction from recovering from the discomfort of that good old Scottish weather!” The Angus Glens Walking Festival runs from May 31 to June 3. www.angusalive.scot