Highland Hops

Laid-back, scenic and full of flavour, FyneFest provides the perfect blend of Scotland's brewing and musical talent

- by MAIRI HUGHES

OVER the last weekend in May, Glen Fyne in Argyll is brimming with activity. Every year, locals and tourists gather in the magical surroundings to enjoy craft ales, live music, pottery classes, yoga workshops, ceilidh dancing and much more.

FyneFest launched in 2010, when Fyne Ales Brewery hosted a couple of hundred guests in their courtyard for a smaller-scale event. The family-run brewery is based at Achadunan Farm near the picturesque coastal hamlet of Cairndow. Historically, the farm was dedicated to growing corn and rearing livestock, but in 2001 the Delap family installed a brewery in an old farm building, and Fyne Ales was born.

The brewery's first ever ale, Highlander, is named in honour of the beloved Highland cows who still roam the Achadunan Estate.

Today, Fyne Ales has a huge repertoire, releasing a new ale every few weeks.

FyneFest has grown significantly in recent years, with 3,000 people expected this year. But it's not your typical beer festival. Children are welcome, and the festival is as much about enjoying the outdoors as it is about beers.