If you're at a loose end this weekend you should head up to the Highlands of Scotland, for the Outsider Festival. It will be set in the Cairngorms National Park, which is one of Britain's most stunning areas of natural beauty, with ancient pine forests, a range of spectacular mountains, lochs, rivers and moorland. It's home to over a quarter of the UK's most endangered species, including the lovable red squirrel. This weekend it will also be home to the likes of KT Tunstall, Crowded House, Idlewild and a host of other musicians and comedians.
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The festival is not only about the sounds, however, it's also an opportunity to discuss pressing environmental issues, with BBC's Kirsty Wark and Lord David Steele hosting several debates and presentations over the weekend including climate change, sustainable building, and alternative energy solutions
If that's not enough you can also take part in a mountain bike race, which has courses suitable for both novices and the hardcore veterans, or a 12k run, which has been named 'the most beautiful run' due to it's setting in the stunning Rothiemurchas Estate. There is an organic food tent, which will showcase some of the delicious organic fayre from the surrounding areas, a kid's zone with fun activities and acoustic music sets, and an environmental village run by Friends of the Earth Scotland.
Tickets can be purchased online for each individual day's events (£35 for Saturday or Sunday and £25 for Friday evening), or you can get a weekend pass for £65. Unfortunately the camping allocation has been sold out, but there are some fabulous places to stay nearby. You can check Visit Scotland for last minute accommodation.
From: BEST OF 2008: Eco-friendy and sustainable shoes