Cool Camping

It seems as though the Guardian/Observer newspaper is suffering from a "groundhog" phenomenon. The headline was unequivocal:

Cool Camping (The Observer, Sunday April 16 2006)

but something about it was eerily familiar, a quick search of the Guardian website threw up no less than 177 results. All though I didn't find the identical headline from last year there are a slew of identical articles, most advertising the same venues and the bespoke/hip campsites. Now just how unimaginative is that?

So here is the Terramar Organics guide to camping with style.

Rule one: Forget home comforts, but remember creature comforts. Camping does not stand for lower standards so take a good bottle of whiskey. Neither does it stand for designer tents. (Those daft ones with integrated lighting systems - OK if you really want to know they're available at Blacks referenced as "Constellation" however, appear in the catalogue as "Cygnus"). A good sleeping bag and camping mat (or thick wool blanket) are all you need.

Rule two: Wherever you may think of going the one true camping hotspot (at least in the UK) is the Cairngorms or Sutherland. Why? Beautiful landscape (sheltered valleys and wide open hills) and not many people make for ideal wild camping.

Rule three: Camping by your car doesn't count. You will find the most beautiful spot within a half hour walk from your car. Don't be lazy, the effort is worth it.

Rule four: Don't leave a mess, even if you have found the most remote and isolated spot other people have a right to enjoy it too! Follow the SAS principle, everything you bring in, needs to be brought out.

Rule five: Pick a spot near running water, it's the best way to keep the G & Ts cold.

And the best place to go? If you promise to keep it a secret I'll tell you. In the meantime here's some pictures from the Easter weekend.

easter camping trip 1
The perfect spot
easter camping trip 2
At the river
easter camping trip 3
 

How to: Perfect camp coffee

how to make coffee 1
You'll need: paper filters, (organic) ground coffee, empty juice carton, mug/cup.
Cut the juice carton to shape, ensure paper filter rests on side of carton. Add coffee grounds followed by water while holding over receptacle. Mmmmmmmmmm.

how to make coffee 1

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