In which we explore the Cairngorm Snow Roads

I'm delighted to report that we had the most wonderful outing on Sunday. Such a good idea of Yam-Aunty’s to go exploring the newly designated ‘Snow Roads’ in the Cairngorms. (Although Gail wishes to point out that the roads are not new, and neither is the fact that they are snow prone. Fans of Jim Naughtie and BBC Radio 4 will already be familiar with hearing that the snow gates are closed on the notorious A939 Cockbridge to Tomintoul route).

I digress. What is sort of new is that art installations have been places at key locations along the roadside, adding extra spice to what are already spectacular viewpoints.

For quality images of these sculptures, and of the surrounding landscape, I refer you to the superior photography on our dear friend Yam’s blog, although we gather you will have to wait a few more days before the Snow Roads are featured there.

Long time readers know that science is my forte. Hitherto I have declined to venture into the precious world of art criticism.  Brian Sewell I am not. I would however like to point out a particular feature of ‘Still’* (a square sculpture with mirrored internal surfaces, located by a quarry just north of Tomintoul) - a feature which I suspect a more conventional art expert would have missed.

You might think nothing could be better than a picture of yours truly, looking adorable against the sparkling Cairngorm whiteness.

But you would be wrong.

Let me explain. Posing inside 'Still' allows you to see my fine jaunty tail and well-toned rear end, and the magnificent scenery in the background, not once but twice over in the same photo. A sort of artistic ‘buy one get one free’ deal!

Quite a result, I’m sure you’ll agree.

*Note we are in whisky country here, just a stone's throw from the Glenlivet and Glenfiddich distilleries, hence 'Still'?