Having graduated from university with a law degree, my first job was in environmental policy with the civil service, and a career in adventure travel seemed like a pipe dream. I’m now the Managing Director of Wilderness Scotland and have 20 years of experience working in the adventure travel industry. I still need to pinch myself sometimes to make sure it’s real!

I love adventures in the outdoors so I think that I have the best job in the world. Having spent countless days exploring Scotland’s wild and not-so-wild places on foot, by bike, by kayak, by canoe, on skis and by car, I feel that I know my way around Scotland better than most people. I’ve climbed most of Scotland’s mountains and given up counting how many islands I’ve visited. I also have my black book of top hotels and special accommodations around the country!

I got my first pair of hiking boots (against my will!) when I was 14 years old. After an accidental epic on the Isle of Arran on their first outing, I was hooked and I’ve been exploring Scotland’s wild places ever since. I’ve climbed most of the Munros (and lots of other peaks too), ridden my mountain bike and road bike all over the Highlands and Islands, paddled sea kayaks on the west coast, and canoed over many beautiful lochs in the morning mist.

Having lived in several Scottish cities, I now live in the Cairngorms National Park with my family – what a treat for someone who loves the great outdoors. While I used to guide our trips, these days, I’m based in the office.

Families should be sure to include the Cairngorms National Park in Scotland as it’s a hotspot for wildlife, and the beautiful landscape makes it ideal for lots of different activities.

Exploring anywhere in Ireland is a joy – the strong culture and friendly locals is in many ways more important than where you visit.

In England, I love the charming villages of the Cotswolds, as well as a good hike in the Yorkshire Dales followed by a pint in the local inn. And on the subject of drinks, for stunning coastal walks and the best whisky in the world, a trip to Islay – the Queen of the Hebrides, located off Scotland’s west coast – is a must!