The Midge Menace
Ah, the joys of camping in the Scottish Highlands – the breathtaking landscapes, the crisp mountain air, the… swarms of bloodthirsty midges? Yes, my friends, if you’re planning a camping adventure in this rugged, beautiful corner of the world, you’ll have to contend with one of nature’s most relentless pests – the infamous Scottish midge.
These tiny, vampire-like creatures are the bane of every camper’s existence. With an estimated 21 billion midges in the Highlands and Islands, you can’t swing a tent peg without hitting a cloud of the annoying critters. And they’re not just a nuisance – their bites can leave you itching and miserable for days.
But fear not, fellow adventurers! I’m here to share my hard-earned wisdom on how to outsmart these miniature menaces and enjoy your camping trip bite-free.
Arming Yourself Against the Onslaught
The first line of defense against the midge onslaught is, of course, good old-fashioned insect repellent. Spraying down with a DEET-based repellent is a tried and true method for keeping the midges at bay. But if you’re not a fan of the chemical smell or potential skin irritation, there are also natural alternatives like citronella candles or essential oil-based sprays.
Another essential item in your anti-midge arsenal? A good quality mosquito net. As the Two Blondes Walking team discovered, a roomy, well-secured mosquito net can provide a safe haven from the biting horde, allowing you to enjoy your camping experience without the constant fear of getting swarmed.
And let’s not forget about the humble midge-proof clothing. Investing in a set of lightweight, long-sleeved and long-legged “camping pyjamas” can be a game-changer, as the bugs simply can’t reach your skin through the protective fabric.
Outsmarting the Midges
Of course, prevention is only half the battle – you’ll also need to learn how to outsmart these persistent pests. One key tactic is to time your activities carefully, avoiding dawn and dusk when the midges are most active. And if you do find yourself surrounded by the swarming horde, don’t panic – remain calm and move slowly to avoid attracting more attention.
Another helpful tip? Set up camp in an area with a gentle breeze, as the midges struggle to fly in anything more than a light zephyr. And when it comes to choosing a campsite, look for high, exposed areas that are less prone to midge infestations.
Finally, don’t be afraid to get a little creative with your campsite setup. As the Two Blondes Walking team discovered, a well-placed tarp or even a simple ridge line can provide an extra layer of protection, keeping the midges at bay while you enjoy the great outdoors.
Embracing the Midge-Filled Adventure
Now, I know what you’re thinking – all this talk of midges and midge-prevention might make it sound like camping in the Scottish Highlands is more trouble than it’s worth. But let me tell you, with the right preparation and a little bit of midge-battling know-how, you can absolutely have an amazing, bite-free adventure.
In fact, Loch Ness Shores is the perfect place to put these midge-busting techniques into practice. This stunning campsite, nestled in the heart of the Highlands, offers breathtaking views, endless hiking opportunities, and – most importantly – a midge-free oasis where you can truly relax and soak in the beauty of your surroundings.
So don’t let the midges scare you off – embrace the challenge, outsmart the little buggers, and get ready for a camping adventure you’ll never forget. Who knows, you might even find yourself grateful for the opportunity to test your midge-battling skills. After all, what’s a little bit of itchiness when you’ve got the majesty of the Scottish Highlands as your backdrop?
