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We’re delighted to be back with a new ‘Hidden Scotland Weekly’. We really hope that you enjoy reading.

Have a great Sunday!

Gift someone the Hidden Scotland Magazine this Christmas

With this service you can place your order and we will send it direct to the recipient, just don't forget to add a note at the checkout so they know who its from. Or just have it sent to yourself.

The A5 print and bookmark is back just for this service so if you missed out first time around.

The magazine will be gift wrapped by hand in burgundy tissue paper, sealed with gold foil stickers, closed with a reindeer gift card and finished with twine.

Isle of Staffa

The Isle of Staffa, located off the west coast of Scotland, is celebrated for its unique geological formations, including the famous Fingal's Cave. Composed of hexagonal basalt columns, a result of volcanic activity, the island's rugged landscape and the cave's naturally arched roof create haunting acoustics that inspired Mendelssohn's "Hebrides Overture." Staffa's uninhabited and protected status makes it a sanctuary for various seabirds, offering visitors a chance to witness nature's artistry both in its geological marvels and its thriving birdlife. Accessible via boat, it's a prime spot for those seeking the raw beauty of Scotland's natural heritage.

Isle of Barra

The Isle of Barra is a serene outpost in Scotland's Outer Hebrides, famed for its breathtaking beaches, particularly Cockle Strand, a beach doubling as an airstrip. Barra's landscape is a tapestry of rugged hills, tranquil lochs, and white sandy shores, reflecting a quintessential Hebridean beauty. The island's community is anchored by the village of Castlebay, overlooked by the medieval Kisimul Castle. Visitors to Barra can indulge in local seafood, explore the island's Gaelic culture, and enjoy outdoor activities like kayaking and cycling in a setting that feels worlds away from the hustle of modern life.

Isle of Eigg

The Isle of Eigg is an enchanting part of the Small Isles, with a diverse environment that ranges from dramatic cliffs to moorland and woodland. Its most recognizable landmark is the towering pitchstone ridge, An Sgurr, a haven for hikers seeking panoramic views. Eigg has a pioneering community-owned electricity grid, reflecting its residents' commitment to sustainable living. Rich in cultural heritage, from Norse and Gaelic influences to tales of clan rivalries, Eigg also offers a vibrant music scene. The island's wildlife, archaeological sites, and a welcoming community make it a captivating destination for travellers.

The Treehouses at Leckie

Set amongst ancient woodland and overlooking the magnificent Gargunnock Hills, it is the perfect spot for those looking for a rural escape whilst staying in Treetop paradise.

Follow them here

Other accommodation options worth a mention this week.

• Airship 002 (link)

• Portamaggie Cottage (link)

• Tiny House (link)

• Cottiscarth Orkney Cottages (link)

• Ainster House (link)

• Bothan Dubh (link)

Escape with Natalie Biggs

Explore some of Scotland’s most beautiful locations and hidden gems in our Escape With series where we ask people about their connection to a favourite place.

Having launched her artisan homewares and lifestyle store Village Green during the pandemic, founder Natalie Biggs has grown and evolved her business in the three years since. Based in East Lothian, Natalie recognised the potential for a business that would showcase the wealth of craft and design talent that’s available both locally and across Scotland, and along with her online store, Village Green also has a new retail space at The Mart in East Linton.

In the summer of 2022, Natalie launched Village Green Makers Market, a curated market bringing together local artisan makers, artists, designers and small independent businesses, and the event has grown throughout this year with monthly markets at The Mart along with additional markets held at different venues in East Lothian. Information on forthcoming events is shared on Instagram at @villagegreenmakersmarket and you can keep up to date with news from the shop at @villagegreenhome. When asked to share her favourite place, Natalie stayed local with a spot in East Lothian that she’s visited since her teenage years.

Tell us about your favourite place - where is it?

Oh goodness, there are so many to choose from and my favourite spot tends to vary on a daily basis. I count myself very lucky to live in East Lothian surrounded by splendid natural landscapes that I can readily explore. Whether I'm in the mood for the coast, the hills, or the woodlands, they're all within easy reach. If I had to pick just one, it would be Yellowcraig Beach. Its breathtaking view of Fidra and over the Firth of Forth to the Fife coastline is truly special.

Why does this place mean so much to you? Why are you always drawn back there?

I have been visiting this beach for almost 30 years and every visit holds a unique charm. It might be the shifting light across the water or the sense of adventure when exploring new paths through the adjacent woodlands. On warm, sunny days, it's delightful to witness the beach bustling with happy people, while on blustery autumn days, you can have the entire beach to yourself.

The woods here hold special memories, including birthday parties for both of my children. During one of these, we had to huddle under picnic blankets for shelter when an unexpected hailstorm hit.

Do you have a first memory of visiting this place?

I relocated to Scotland from Warwickshire with my mother when I was 18 and I was quite resistant to the move. However, my mum, being from Edinburgh and knowing Yellowcraig, took me for a walk there on one of our first days here, and my perspective swiftly shifted. I developed a deep affection for the place. It turns out, she knew exactly what she was doing.

Has it changed over the time that you’ve visited?

Fortunately, this part of East Lothian has largely retained its natural charm. The trees have matured, and, just like the trees, my children have grown taller over the years. The trees they used to attempt to climb are now easily scaled. However, there's still a tree with a knotted trunk on the path from the car park to the beach that continues to puzzle me

How does this place inspire you?

How does this place inspire you?I wish I knew what the magic of this place is but I think it’s a bit of everything: the walk through the woods leading to the beach, the grass- covered dunes, the view opening up before you as you reach the shore, the view of Fidra island and its lighthouse and the beautiful light across the water – this all contributes to a unique experience.

Without fail, this place has a remarkable ability to leave me feeling better than when I first arrived.

If someone was thinking of visiting this place, what’s the one thing they should know?

It's worth noting that there is a parking fee. However, for those considering becoming regular visitors to the beaches of East Lothian, it's possible to apply for an annual parking permit from the council. Additionally, there's a scenic coastal walk connecting Yellowcraig to North Berwick, offering another opportunity for some exploring.

What’s the place you’d most like to explore in Scotland, that you haven’t yet?

I would love to visit the islands. It's somewhat embarrassing to admit that, despite nearly 30 years in Scotland, I've only managed to visit the Isle of Lewis and Arran. It's something I hope to rectify soon. Browse Village Green here or visit the shop at The Mart, Haddington Road in East Linton.

Interview By Fiona Reid

Would your business like to feature in the Hidden Scotland Weekly? e-mail [email protected]