Scottish Bothy Walks

Synopsis

Using the bothy as the reference point, Geoff Allan guides the reader on a mix of day walks and multi-day adventures to his favourite bothies. He highlights the incredible wildlife, geography, history, and culture that you will find along your walk.

Summary

Chapter 1: Introduction to Bothy Walks

* What are bothies? Unstaffed, rustic shelters designed for mountain travelers.
* Benefits of bothy walks: Affordable accommodation, solitude, and nature immersion.
* Planning a bothy walk: Selecting the right bothy, preparing for conditions, and respecting wildlife.

Chapter 2: The Central Highlands

* Region known for its towering peaks, deep glens, and sparkling lochs.
* Bothies: Corrour Bothy, Glen Doll Bothy, Auchreoch Bothy
* Example: Walk to Corrour Bothy from Loch Ossian (12 miles, 6-8 hours)

Chapter 3: The Cairngorms National Park

* Largest national park in the UK, renowned for its subarctic landscapes.
* Bothies: Corrour Bothy, Shenaval Bothy, Ben Alder Cottage
* Example: Walk to Corrour Bothy from Loch Treig (8 miles, 4-5 hours)

Chapter 4: The Northwest Highlands

* Area of rugged mountains, pristine lochs, and remote islands.
* Bothies: Inverie Bothy, bothies on Knoydart Peninsula (Sourlies, Barisdale)
* Example: Walk to Inverie Bothy from Kinlochourn (14 miles, 6-8 hours)

Chapter 5: The Torridon Hills

* Picturesque region of towering peaks, dramatic ridges, and stunning lochs.
* Bothies: Torridon Youth Hostel (converted bothy), Shieldaig Hill Bothy
* Example: Walk to Torridon Youth Hostel from Inveralligan (6 miles, 3-4 hours)

Chapter 6: The Isle of Skye

* Known for its Cuillin Hills, dramatic coastline, and fairy pools.
* Bothies: Glen Brittle Bothy, Sligachan Hotel (bothy-like), The Barn
* Example: Walk to Glen Brittle Bothy from Elgol (6 miles, 3-4 hours)

Chapter 7: The Southern Highlands

* Area of rolling hills, peaceful glens, and historical sites.
* Bothies: Benhall Bothy, Bruach na Frithe Bothy, Forest Lodge
* Example: Walk to Benhall Bothy from Loch Tay (9 miles, 4-5 hours)

Chapter 8: The Galloway and Southern Uplands

* Region of gentle hills, picturesque coastline, and ancient forests.
* Bothies: Culsharg Bothy, Kirroughtree Bothy
* Example: Walk to Culsharg Bothy from Loch Trool (10 miles, 4-5 hours)