CHRIS FORBES, COMEDIAN AND ACTOR
Where is it?
Gairloch, Wester Ross.
Why do you go there?
It’s where my family comes from, so I’ve always had the connection. My gran still lives in Poolewe and that gives us another great reason to visit. She makes the best soup known to man. I’ve always felt intrinsically drawn to the area.
There’s a Gaelic word, “Cianalas”, which means, “a deep-seated sense of belonging to the place where your roots lie”. And I think that helps explain my feelings.
How often do you go?
It’s been harder to make regular trips the last few years but two to three times a year at least. More if I can. It’s a long way to go with a young family but well worth the trip.
How did you discover it?
It’s always been part of my life, but I discover new things every time I go.
What’s your favourite memory?
Hiking up to the Poca Buidhe bothy every summer as a teenager with my brother, dad, uncle and family friends. We’d spend two days and nights fishing at Loch Na h-Oidhche and the smaller surrounding lochs.
In the evenings, we would be thoroughly entertained by rude old folk songs our parents would sing after a few drams. It's such a secluded, magical spot. It felt like we were the only people in the world when we were there.
Who do you take?
I’ve always gone with family. These days my wife, daughter and dog are the latest family members to have fallen in love with the place. I try to encourage all my friends to visit if they can.
What do you take?
Midge nets. I’ve seen a few places claim to have the worst midges in Scotland, but Wester Ross is surely up there. Midge nets, midge spray, midge anything that might help. And although it’s gorgeous in the sunshine, you’re probably best packing your wellies and outdoor gear.
Gairloch also has one of the nicest beaches in Scotland, so it is worth bringing buckets and spades and a big, thick towel if you want to take a dip.
What do you leave behind?
Stress, fast-paced living and, depending on your network provider, a phone signal.
Sum it up in five words.
Beautiful. Peaceful. Friendly. Historic. Calm.
What other travel spot is on your wish list?
Although probably the complete opposite to Gairloch, I’d love to visit Japan someday. I love everything I’ve seen and read about the culture and so I’d like to experience it first-hand.
As a keen mountain climber, I’d love to climb Mount Fuji. For a rush of high-speed excitement, I’d take the Tokyo to Kyoto bullet train. And, with it being such a technically advanced country, I’m sure I’d enjoy all the high-tech wonders that Tokyo has to offer.
Chris Forbes: Court Jester is at Monkey Barrel Comedy (The Hive), Edinburgh, until August 13; The Duncan and Judy Murray Show is at The Stand’s New Town Theatre, Edinburgh, on August 19 and 20. Visit edfringe.com
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