Second Best? No Way

Nick Drainey finds Fife’s East Lomond easier going – but more fun

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FOR me, this hill always had a feeling of being in someway inferior to its higher neighbour, West Lomond.But when icy roads meant the intended destination for my friend and I was cut off, an alternative – up East Lomond from Falkland – made me realise there is no such thing as second best.

There was snow on the ground and the low sun was illuminating the winter wonderland above the treeline. If that couldn’t stimulate the senses, then nothing would.

Sometimes hillwalking can encourage an attitude that higher, steeper and longer is always the preferred way. But we go hillwalking to escape the competitive, modern world and return to nature – to have fun and relax.