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Liathach, Sutherland (Credit: VisitScotland/Kenny Lam)
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Scotland’s Majestic Natural Landscapes

By Alice Nicaudie

A homage to Beinn Alligin and the majestic landscapes of the Highlands
Image provided by Alice Nicaudie

My journey stone shows the view of Beinn Alligin I see from home. The mountain is inspiring, both to look at and to climb. Hill walking has always been a passion for me and I feel lucky to be able to enjoy this spectacular view every day. I found the tapestry threads naturally matched the colours of the wildflowers, grasses and rocks. Being new to embroidery, it was encouraging to build my design up in stages over time, while adding to the larger tapestry panel and learning from other people in the group.I will keep on with stitching, I enjoy it and I really value being part of this project.

The hill’s true name in the Gaelic is Beinn Àilleagan, meaning jewelled hill or the mountain of beauty; it is one of the classic peaks of Torridon, a region which represents the enduring spirit of the Highlands. Close-by you can find the last few untouched areas of Scottish coastal temperate rainforest, incredibly rare on a global level - with ancient Scots pines supporting an amazing biodiversity of animals, birds, insects, mosses and lichens. My journey stone celebrates Scotland’s majestic natural landscapes.


Many thanks to Alice Nicaudie for sharing with us the story behind her journey stone, created as part of the Tapestry of the Highlands and Islands.

WHAT IS A JOURNEY STONE?

Prior to the beginning of the stitching of each tapestry panel, each stitcher of the Tapestry of the Highlands and Islands was tasked with telling their interpretation of the 'Spirit of the Highlands and Islands' within a blank outline of a stone. The possibilities were truly endless - is it represented in the land? The people? A historical site? A favourite memory?

In any case, each journey stone represents the connection between each individual stitcher, their story, and their own sense, or 'spirit', of place. Discover more of the stories behind the journey stones of the Tapestry of the Highlands and Islands here.