Argyll April

Loch Lomond from Firkin Point

Almost

Early April in Scotland is a bit too soon for big-vista landscape photography; the mountains are still the orangey-brown of late-season deer stalker tartan - flat and otherwise colourless. A couple of months ago there was at least a little snow and frost to add drama. Early Spring skies are pale and hazy as warming sun liberates water vapour from the mossy undergrowth. Up here, the lambs are still new and wee compared to their chunkier cousins down South.

Fire

We’re moving into hill fire territory, where wispy dry grasses, crispy bracken and heather catch at the slightest encouragement. Such fires sweep across the tops of otherwise damp vegetation until the heat becomes intense enough to drive deeper, sometimes into the underlying peat. It’s hard work for firefighters, who must trek up the hills (the fires are rarely at low altitude, unless caused by thoughtless campers or smokers), chasing the fire in full, heavy fire kit, carrying beaters and whatever drinking water they can manage. I’m too old for this game now, but wince whenever the sirens sound and local volunteers throw themselves into the fray.

This is living

But soon the Bluebells will be out and the hillsides carpeted in grey-blue flowers. Woodland walks will become sensory havens with Wild Garlic, Wood Anemones, Bluebells and Bilberry (ignoring the completely sterile Sitka Spruce plantations for now). We’ll be out on our electric mountain bikes, exploring and exercising, with camera bag slung over my shoulder, stopping every now and then to capture what just might be a keeper. What a way to make a living…