Time To Reflect

OUR cover story is based on a fantastic adventure I had exactly a year ago. Writer Fi Russell and I had the idea of a midsummer camp on Suilven – one of Scotland’s most iconic mountains.

To add to the sense of adventure, we decided to travel by raft along Loch Veyatie, and paddle with all our gear as close to the hill as possible. You can read about it on p110.

We enjoyed perfect weather, and watching from the summit – dram in hand – as the summer sun dipped briefly below the horizon is a memory I’ll cherish forever.

I decided I’d plan similar midsummer adventures every year. Looking back, from the midst of a nationwide lockdown, that now seems naïve. Perhaps even arrogant.

The Covid-19 pandemic has reminded us what’s important – health and the people we love – and that we can’t take anything for granted.

Usually, a big part of what we do at The Scots Magazine is to encourage readers to get out and about to enjoy adventures big and wee – whether it be climbing a mountain, a family trip to the seaside, or spending time at the fun events, festivals and shows that make up

Scotland’s vibrant cultural calendar. We will enjoy all these activities again.

During lockdown, we’ve searched to bring you content that will continue to inspire, entertain and inform you… but just a bit closer to home!

We’ve also temporarily replaced our popular online hashtag – #Outandaboutscotland – which in normal times you use to share your adventures.

Instead, we recently launched #Inthistogetherscotland. You’ve used it to share pictures and messages about how you’ve coped during the toughest period most of us will have known. Some of the posts are amusing – readers climbing stairs instead of mountains. Others are touching – how communities are coming together to help their more vulnerable members. All are inspiring.

You’ll find a selection of the best from p15 in an issue of your favourite magazine that’s packed with big reads, stunning imagery and loads of uplifting features.

Stay safe.