There's something about the Highlands and Islands of Scotland that draws you in.

At least, it does us.

The easy image is of deer stalking, ghillies, gothic castles, kilts, and bagpipes. And those are good. But there is so much more to the life of the Highlands and Islands today.

There is a food revolution going on, with high quality innovative food being served in towns and villages, deep in the forest, and on cliff tops. Thurso is becoming an international destination for cold water surfing. A radical increase in green energy production is changing the economy and the landscape. There are plans for several spaceports in the far north (spaceports!), and a robust debate around the pros and cons. Alongside the whisky, gin distilleries are springing up, and microbreweries are winning awards for their beer. People are using social media to reconnect with traditional livelihoods. Regenerative agriculture is reshaping the landscape. Small publishers and dedicated individuals are creating a vibrant linguistic space for Gaelic and Scots literature. And as a tourist destination, the Highlands and Islands are undergoing changes that could make or break the future of the region.

We want to explore all this. As outsiders ourselves, but with some access and curiosity, we can share what we find. We hope that in doing so, we can make something that contributes to the region we love.