The Scottish Bothy Bible

Synopsis

This first ever complete guide to the Scottish bothies reveals the country's unique and often hidden network of bothy cabins and mountain huts. Scattered across Scotland's most beautiful landscapes, these evocative abandoned crofts and farmsteads are free to stay in and offer a chance to experience the ultimate in wild adventure living.

Summary

Chapter 1: Introduction

* Introduction to bothies, their history, and how to use this book.
* Real example: "Culag bothy in the hills above Ullapool"

Chapter 2: The Bothies and Their History

* Overview of different types of bothies: club bothies, estate bothies, and independent bothies.
* Historical background on the development and use of bothies.
* Real example: "Glen Brittle bothy on the Isle of Skye, a former hunting lodge"

Chapter 3: The Scottish Region

* Overview of the different regions of Scotland where bothies are found, with specific examples.
* Real example: "The Northwest Highlands: from Cape Wrath to Glen Shiel"

Chapter 4: Regional Accounts

* Detailed accounts of bothies within each region, including location, facilities, access, and history.
* Real example: "Invergarry Bothy: a former stables in Glengarry"

Chapter 5: The Bothying Code

* Essential principles for ethical and responsible use of bothies.
* Topics covered: respect for the environment, leaving no trace, sharing space, and maintaining the facilities.
* Real example: "Respecting the right to quiet enjoyment in a shared bothy"

Chapter 6: Safety and Planning

* Planning considerations for bothying, including route choice, weather forecasting, and emergency preparedness.
* Real example: "Planning a multi-day bothying trip in the Cairngorms"

Chapter 7: Equipment and Supplies

* Essential items for bothying, such as sleeping bag, sleeping mat, cooking equipment, and toiletries.
* Real example: "Packing a lightweight backpack for a weekend bothying trip"

Chapter 8: Wild Camping

* Information on wild camping in Scotland, including legal considerations, tips for choosing a suitable site, and minimizing impact.
* Real example: "Wild camping beneath the summit of Ben Nevis"

Chapter 9: Bothy Etiquette

* Guidelines for sharing and respecting bothies with other users.
* Topics covered: communication, noise levels, cleaning up, and leaving the bothy in good condition.
* Real example: "Negotiating a quiet night's sleep in a crowded bothy"

Chapter 10: The Future of Bothy Culture

* Discussion of bothy preservation and the role of volunteers and organizations.
* Real example: "The Mountain Bothies Association and their work to maintain bothies"