From Issue Three of Hidden Scotland Magazine

Behind the Lens with Virginie Chabrol

A photographer’s first visit to Arran.

Printed in Issue Three of Hidden Scotland Magazine, Winter 2021.

Arran is said to be Scotland in miniature. It is crossed by the Highland Boundary Fault and, like the mainland, is divided between flat and fertile areas and mountainous landscapes. This was my first visit to the isle, despite several years spent in Scotland and its proximity to my adopted home town of Glasgow. Yet, I had felt compelled to explore the tumultuous slopes and rocky ridges of the Goatfell range since I had seen a photo taken from its highest peak.

It was in autumn. James – my partner and fellow photographer – and I knew that rain was coming but according to the weather forecast we had a clear window of a few days. We took our chances. Our plan was to climb Goatfell and to camp on its summit to make the most of the light.

Goatfell was hidden in the clouds when our ferry reached Arran and the weather did not improve during our walk up the mountain. We pitched our tent in a sea of thick clouds and hoped for the best. At least, it was not raining...