Spirit: Discovering the Highlands and Islands

High Life Highland

What comes to mind when you think of the Scottish Highlands and Islands? Is it the land? The people? The sights, sounds and smells?

In this series, join first-time visitor Peter Knowles as he discovers the region, speaking with the rich tapestry of people who live and work here. From families whose local roots go back generations, to others have moved here more recently, from every corner of the world. Together, their stories, experiences, loves, and losses help us discover what the Spirit of the Highlands and Islands is today.

The Spirit of the Highlands and Islands project is supported by a grant from the Natural and Cultural Heritage Fund (NCHF), led by NatureScot and funded by the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF).

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Society & CultureSociety & Culture
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Nature and Nurture
Jun 26 2023
Nature and Nurture
The Highlands and Islands have some of the most beautiful and remarkable landscapes to explore. From mountainous heights to lush green valleys, and from golden sandy beaches to vibrant towns and villages, every mile has something to delight visitors. More than scenic views, however, our landscape is vital to our wellbeing. This episode considers the unique landscapes of the lower Highlands, and meets some of the people who are harnessing their revitalising properties. Let our landscape leave an impression on you through the stories of local communities.

Episodes

Nature and Nurture
Jun 26 2023
Nature and Nurture
The Highlands and Islands have some of the most beautiful and remarkable landscapes to explore. From mountainous heights to lush green valleys, and from golden sandy beaches to vibrant towns and villages, every mile has something to delight visitors. More than scenic views, however, our landscape is vital to our wellbeing. This episode considers the unique landscapes of the lower Highlands, and meets some of the people who are harnessing their revitalising properties. Let our landscape leave an impression on you through the stories of local communities.
Music: An Tinne
Jun 19 2023
Music: An Tinne
Music is an important part of life in the Highlands and Islands with both a rich heritage of traditional Gaelic song and a plethora of contemporary talent. Music, song and language connects us to the landscape and the people of the region. This episode explores the importance of music across the Western Isles, focusing on the An Tinne project of 2022 and the crucial role music plays connecting the past to the present.
Hospitality
Jun 12 2023
Hospitality
The Highlands and Islands of Scotland are famous for their warm, welcoming communities made up of individuals from all over the world. In this episode, discover a real flavour of what it is like to visit some of the most stunning landscapes and vibrant communities in Scotland. Listen to stories from people who live, work and travel in the region to inspire your next adventure.
Episode 1: Expectation vs Reality
May 26 2023
Episode 1: Expectation vs Reality
In this series, join first-time visitor Peter Knowles as he discovers the region, speaking with the rich tapestry of people who live and work here. In this episode, we explore how the Highlands and Islands live up to expectations (or why they don't!). Listen in to discover the real spirit of the region through the voices of those who know it best.