StAnza 2014 The StAnza festival (5-9 March) is famous for its friendly atmosphere and international focus, the place to hear favourite writers and enjoy the beautiful town of St Andrews in the East Neuk of Fife and StAnza’s lively festival hub, and readings, performances, talks, exhibitions and workshops.  Tel 01334 474609www.stanzapoetry.org

Last Spring I tramped along some great paths in preparation for Maggies Monster Hike. I walked in many different parts of Scotland getting the legs, feet and mind ready for the monster.

I was supported and accompanied by friends and family and together we discovered some great tracks and enjoyed re-visiting some old favourites.

What became clear is that we have a great network of disused railway lines, they are now being put to good use as walking and MTB tracks.

The old line from Crail to St Andrews is a classic example, it is a really good path between Crail ( Hammer Inn) and Kingsbarns.

Check out this and other routes collated by Tom of Collective Training. Photo www.collectivetraining.co.uk

http://www.outdoorfife.com/content/cycle-routes/5-crail-to-kingsbarns/

Caiplie has seen a few transitions over the years;

From bakers and tea-room in Victorian times through  to B&B Guest House. The change  to B&B happened in 1977 after almost a century of being first Duncan the bakers then Fisher and then Fisher and Donaldson bakers.

Many locals still remember the bakers shop here with the bakehouse out on the back lane. There was also a time when ice cream was sold from the front window!

A number of owners offered meals to residents and non residents. Dinner at Caiplie and Caiplie Bistro saw a seasonal restaurant appear and most recently John McFetridge of Mountain Relish offered Coastal Relish @ Caiplie

Yet again this grand old lady has had a transformation....now back to the original dimensions of the Victorian house and available to let as one holiday house. It is a cracking house if we say so ourselves.

In this latest transition we added a gas central heating system. This will make the house comfortable for groups all year round. With the two open fires totaly toastie actually!

We had to get into the heart of the old house, floorboards up doors off etc but the result was worth it!