‘The Highlander’s Return’ – One Week in April

Seeing me off from Milngavie



A 325km off road adventure from Glasgow to Aultbea, Wester Ross, Scotland. 23 – 29 Apr 2023

The following account is a kaleidoscope of experiences and feelings all concertinoed into 7 days in April. As such there were times when my short term memory was confused. There may therefore be an incident or two that is not strictly chronological. For this I apologise but can do nothing to amend this. In one way the week feels like one continuous experience.

Day 1 – Sun 23 April 2023.     Milngavie – Inversnaid    55.4 km 1,289 m Ascent

After months of preparation the day had finally come. The main feeling was ‘let’s get going’. The days beforehand had felt stressful. As if ready to start but waiting. It left the mind to ruminate and go over things needlessly. Had I this or that with me and many ‘what ifs’. Amongst the more irrational decisions I guess was to take my concessionary bus pass.

I was starting at the official start of the WHW in Milngavie to the north of Glasgow. As the adventure was to be ‘off road’ I didn’t fancy starting off with 6km of busy city roads from home. 

It was encouraging to have a group from our church see me off. They joined in prayer for a safe journey ahead.

Elisabeth was coming out to Balmaha (after 32km) with a picnic lunch which was great. It also meant that I could travel light initially and pick up my main rucksack there. Good also at the beginning to have the company of 2 friends, Andy M and Jamie R. 

The 3 of us set of at 8:01 am to the cries of well-wishers. It sounds like every minute of the next week counted but  psychologically I needed to know I was ‘on track’ from the start. Our pace was good. Being fresh and excited and not carrying anything much meant that this would be the fastest for whole of week. And so it proved. Good to chat with my intial companions and settle nerves. Jamie left us after about 10km for his home nearby. Thanks Jamie for your banter. Andy and I continued on together to Balmaha where he would get a lift back home with Elisabeth. 

It was a cool, dry morning. Good conditions and time passed pleasantly. At some point midway between Drymen and Conic hill 2 figures appeared ahead of us. As we caught up they turned out to be people we knew. Incredibly they had first hand knowledge of the remote bothy and the Cape Wrath trail area I planned to be later in the week. It was reassuring and a sign to me that God was going before. I just needed to put in the effort. 

Conic hill ahead

Our pace to Balmaha was so good that we arrived 1220, 40 mins before planned meeting with Elisabeth at 1pm. Time for a coffee in the little shop and then a welcome picnic brought by Elisabeth. Got to keep up the calorie intake! I would be running a calorie deficit for whole week and burning my fat reserves so eating was vital. It was time to say goodbyes to both Elisabeth and Andy. I was now on my own, That would be the case for next 2 days. 

Andy and I looking a bit silly at Balmaha

The trail along the east side of Loch Lomond is very familiar to me. It was still hard going especially between Rowardennan and Inversnaid. Lots of tree roots and undulations. At least during the first 3 days the trail would always be well marked. My pace was settling down to a fast hike. Good in some ways but in other ways made it a bit lonely. There were plenty of walkers but as my pace was faster I would only usually pass with a greeting and move on. 

A quick stop at Rowardennan where I got water from the tap outside the toilets. For fluid intake I was mainly using electrolyte tablets with the water. Normally I make a drink that uses carbohydrates but didn’t want to carry powder. Arriving at Inversnaid my hoped for plan was to get a meal at the hotel there. However they said they were only catering for bus groups. I therefore had to make do with some snacks from the hotel bar and get my phone and satellite tracker charged. 

It was then out into a chilly evening to continue about another 1 km north. There I found my bed for the night. Whatever warmth was in the air was quickly dispelled by the light northerly wind which was often the case throughout the week. 

My rest for the night was near the loch side with a stream nearby. I was not alone whilst setting up camp. Two other tents were within 50m. Camping as such is not really my thing. Brick and mortar accommodation did not provide the flexibility for early starts and late arrivals each day. Also on most days there was nowhere to go for shelter anyway. Got my bivvy bag and sleeping bag sorted and boiled water for the 2 dehydrated meals I had. Think it was chicken tikka and beef bolognaise. Sounds exotic. Add water to a bag and spoon it out. Importantly it was 1,200 cals. Topped off with a powdered cappuccino mix. 

Dwelling for the night

Thought at close of day – For the only time all week I managed to listen to a podcast on my phone. An inspiring testimony by Bishop Sentamu answering the question ’what makes us human’. As a persecuted former judge in Idi Amin’s Uganda he knew what it means to suffer. I am feeling weary after just 12 hours of effort. Lord, what about 11 year old children in Pakistan denied an education. Some do back breaking menial work making bricks for 12 hours, just for pennies. I am weary this day by choice, they by force. I feel overwhelmed by the injustice of it all. Lord, have mercy.

Day 2 – Mon  24 April 2023.    Inversnaid  – Glencoe 58.7 km  1514m ascent

Inversnaid to Glencoe

This would be my longest day distance-wise so determined an early start. I was up and going after a hot drink and snack. My plan was to get a full cooked breakfast at the campsite at Bein Glas about 2 hours and 10km away. On the way to breakfast I passed many campers seemingly blissfuly asleep. Terrain was quite tough going. There is a 4km ‘technical’ section where at times you are clambering on all fours. Even when racing this route all but the elite can traverse the 4km in under an hour. At many points on this journey I would envisage how things would be. Like expectations in life, though, there can be disappointment. However this time I was wonderfully surprised. I had the big full cooked breakfast including haggis and black pudding. As much coffee and juice as I could ingest. All in a warm, cosy environment. The hour there passed in a flash. It was time to move on. 

North of Loch Lomond the terrain was more conducive to hiking and made reasonable progress. Stopped for a moment at the Kynaston bridge. The late John Kynaston first inspired me to get into ultra distance running. Family, friends and runners had rebuilt this bridge in memory of him. His was a remarkable life of service in the UK and overseas as well as a physical education coach. His example also encouraged many to push their limits physically. A life well lived – thank you John. 

My next stop was in Tyndrum. The heavy breakfast meant that I had no stomach for anything fried so made do with sandwiches at the ‘Green Welly’ restaurant. It was then on up the gentle rise out of Tyndrum. About 500m out suddenly realised I had no gloves. These were the only pair I had with me. I had to return to the ‘Green Welly’. To go through Rannoch Moor later in the day I would need gloves. The staff were helpful and even put out a ‘glove alert’ over the tannoy throughout the complex. However nothing transpired. Only thing for it was to buy another pair in the outdoor shop.

As I returned to the trail I was bemoaning the fact that 40 mins, 1km and the purchase of a pair of gloves had been ‘wasted’. Only then I realised that where I had lost my gloves was probably the only place between Glasgow and Fort William where you could buy gloves. I carried on towards Bridge of Orchy thankful. Setbacks often have silver linings.

Leaving Bridge of Orchy there is a fairly steep ascent over the hill towards Inveroran. As I descended towards there a familiar figure appeared. Martin had been following on my tracker and it was great to then have his company for a few km. He had been helpful in giving advice on my route for north of Fort William. Got some fruit from him. Just as helpful was to have someone’s company for a while. As we approached Rannoch moor area he turned back to Inveroran.

Meeting Martin above Inveroran

My initial plan for the evening had been to arrive in Glencoe and make use of the facilities in both the ski resort and the Kingshouse hotel. Time wise I was running late. I had phone reception and discovered that the ski resort restaurant closed at 8pm. Kingshouse was nearly 2.5km further and would be too late to avail myself of their food. It was a push to arrive at the ski resort a few minutes before 8pm. Unfortunately no hot food or drink was being served. They managed to boil water for an instant coffee which refreshed my chilling body. Also grabbed some snacks and powdered porridge which thought would be handy for the morning.

It was then out to the campsite in the rapidly dropping temperatures. I found a spot beside 2 Israeli campers. Not that a bivvy bag needs much space. The real advantage was the toilet / shower block. Its warmth was mesmerising. Didn’t have energy to shower but determined that a plan B was to warm up in the toilets or even stay there all night. Temperatures were plummeting and later heard it was -5C that night at Loch Tulla which I had passed earlier. In the event I managed to bivvy the whole night but with little sleep.

Thought for the day – I think of the many in our world for whom there is no room in the inn. People displaced by war and famine. No choice but to lay their head on whatever piece of earth they could find. Hopes for the future all but destroyed. Lord, do you care? Of course you do. You have given mankind responsibility for our actions. Actions that cause others to suffer. Your heart is broken by their pain. Lord, again I am here by choice. I have a plan B if pain or discomfort are too much.

Day 3 – Tue  25 April 2023.    Glencoe – Fort William 48.7 km  1198m ascent

Glencoe to Fort William

In the morning decided plan was to boil water for the powdered porridge sachets I had bought the night before. That would have to do me to Kinlochleven. Shivering trying to boil my water a couple Antony and Lindsay from a neighbouring tent noticed me. Think it must have looked like I had had a rough night. She came over with a very welcome mug of hot coffee. The kindness of strangers. 

It was then off down into the valley to a slowly warming sun. Hauntingly beautiful in any weather the valley is the stuff of legends.

Buachaille Etive Mòr ( between Kingshouse and Altnafeidh)

Passing Kingshouse hotel it was on to Altnafeidh. Then the trail headed up the Devil’s staircase. Reassuringly I was still passing walkers. At the top of the staircase I stopped for a moment and met two young women walkers going in other direction. They were doing an ‘off road’ JOGLE (John O’Groats to Lands End). Taking 3 months to do it. Continue to be amazed at the number of people who take considerable ‘time out’ to be outside. 

I made it to Kinlochleven around lunchtime and headed to the small supermarket there where I devoured a welcome cold lunch. 

My next stop would be in Fort William. This sector held many memories of late night/ early morning trudges as nearing the end of the traditional West Highland Way (WHW) Race. This time it felt a bit easier as I ascended up to and along the Lairig Ghru. Still it took a long time and once again found myself facing a later than expected end of day. 

Descending into Fort W. I followed the WHW into the town but then left to traverse across town and join with the Great Glen Way. Tonight would be luxury. Staying at a bed and breakfast. Elisabeth came walking to meet me and lead me through the urban housing of FW. Eventually we reached our accommodation neatly situated beside the Caledonian canal and 30m from the Great Glen Way. The start point for day 4. Meanwhile a shower and a hot meal. It was a curious sleep that night. After 2 nights in the cold it felt very stuffy. As if my head had got used to outdoor, overnight conditions.

Thought for the day – Lord, am touched by the kindness of people. The compassion of a welcome hot drink. There is goodness in your world.

Day 4 – Wed  26 April 2023.   Fort William – West of Loch Loyne 37.5 km. 1318m ascent

Fort William to Achnacarry

Breakfast was a bit rushed but otherwise welcome. Plan was that Cammie Kennedy would motor up to Fort W. Elisabeth would pick him up from town and take him to day 4 start point. Cammie very generously took several days leave from his work to accompany me on this the more challenging and arduous second half. It was fantastic to have him. He kept me company, he was strong, super fit and knows the mountains and bushcraft much better than me. We had spent many hours together in the mountains previously in all conditions. Crucially he could also navigate – I have trouble finding my way round retail parks. He was also fresh and ‘ready to go’.

According to plan Cammie (hereafter known as ‘C’) arrived. After some last minute preparations we set off about 0900 saying goodbye to Elisabeth who was returning to Glasgow. Going along the canal it was still dry and cool. It was, as you’d expect on a waterway, flat and not at all difficult. A gentle introduction to what was coming.

We followed the Great Glen way and canal for a few hours. Then departing from the trail to go through Achnacarry. The village is unusual in that the land and road in the village is private and owned by the chief of the clan Cameron. Both C and I have connections to the Camerons. It felt an interesting diversion to visit the clan museum shop. More interestingly and to the point was that they sold ice cream and coffee. We thought there would be no food available from Fort W. that day. This was a blessed, unexpected bonus.

Achnacarry to west of Loch Loyne

We then proceeded through the estate and followed a road for a few km before heading north initially on a forestry type path. We were now entering wild, remote terrain. Apart from a brief stop in Cluanie we would not really return to civilisation till Kinlochewe 2 days later.

We climbed with the beautiful loch Arkaig behind us. Before it disappeared I reflected how many years before I had spent a week near there with a hill walking group. It was past the western end of the loch in Glen Dessary. Once quite populated the valleys are now largely silent. Many had emigrated to escape remote rural poverty. I wondered how many of the remote valleys we were about to visit were once populated.

Looking back to Loch Arkaig

Anyhow, pressing on we reached Poulary where there was a couple of houses. If I was to finish in 7 days we would have to go further today. And so we continued. For the first time on the whole trip it started to become quite damp and misty. A change from our original route meant we could cut out what seemed an unnecessary detour round the head of a valley. However it also made for boggy terrain.

Eventually we made camp for the night in the middle of a moor by a stream. Again the north wind was chilling as we made bed for the night. Then a frantic effort to heat some food before dark. For me, it was probably the roughest night outside. It got very cold but also wet. I almost said to C during the night that I needed to move and would need to force march myself up the impending hill to keep warm.

Evening meal.


Day 5 – Thu  27 April 2023.   West of Loch Loyne – Maol Buidhe bothy 43 km. 1506m ascent

At 5am I told C I must move and get some body heat on my torso. I was on the border of shivering and fortunately had the presence of mind to do something about it. As we set off C noticed a certain type of moth. To me it seemed it was watching our predicament with its false eyes.

Brighter prospects were ahead of us. Our plan was to move for 2 hours and once again try to catch a full cooked Scottish breakfast. This time at Cluanie Inn where our path would intersect the road to Kyle of Lochalsh and the island of Skye. To avoid disappointment it was important not to over visualise good things to come. We arrived at the Inn just as they started to serve breakfast. We were blessed beyond expectations. The waiter A let us join the hotel guest breakfast clientele. We must have looked a bit strange to the guests in our damp attire as we charged phones and power banks and devoured down the hot food. When A learned what we were doing he very kindly proferred small food boxes for us to take food away with us from the buffet. The kindness of strangers.

West of Loch Loyne to Maol Buidhe bothy

Though the weather remained damp our feelings were lighter. So on fuller stomaches we headed off into the hills again. It was going to be a long day to get to our bothy for the night. Often there were faint tracks which I am convinced some of which were made by animals. Either deer or sheep. Sometimes we would come across some old road which we would follow for a bit. Danger was that a relatively nice road was easy to remain on. Perhaps for too long and only to discover it is not going the way we want.

A word about safety and navigation. We were using Ordnance Survey (OS) online maps on our phones backed up with paper maps if needed. Neither C nor I were on the best phone network. It meant that for much of 3 days we were without phone signal or clear online maps. Throughout the trip either C or I carried a GPS tracker and emergency transponder. It meant that those following and supporting knew where we were. Should there be a need for it pressing one button sent signal and location to emergency services. Not so high tech was a 10m mountaineering cordelette ( a 3mm thick but v strong rope). There were quite a number of rivers to cross. Had the earlier part of April been wet (which it wasn’t) many of them could have been torrential and very fast moving. Having a rope in such cases would have been essential. In the event most of the time the rivers were not that high. However on one occasion I was wading across a fairly fast flowing river at knee height. About 2m from the far side the water got deeper. Testing depth with my poles discovered that it was probably 1.2-1.5m deep with a clamber up the river bank. I am so thankful I had presence of mind to not attempt. Immersion and swimming in a chilled state would have been foolish. With nothing warm to change into in a remote place would be dangerous. Believe someone must have been praying at that moment. I retreated and found another point to cross.

Cammie always happy to take the hard way. I was content to just wade through.

Our anticipated refuel station was the Glen Affric youth hostel. I had called the Inverness youth hostel the week before enquiring about picking up food as we passed through. A super friendly guy Mark was on the end of the line and said he was going there for 2 weeks. He assured me of plenty supplies. It felt reassuring as there would be nowhere else to get them for the day.

Located at Allt Beithe the hostel was a welcome sight with smoke coming from the chimney. Upon entering sure enough Mark was there in a nice, cosy room with stove. Wonderful. Shortly after arrival a figure appeared. My cousin Ewen! He had come in to meet us on his mountain bike. He also offered food and fruit. Ewen was a great help and appeared on 2 other occasions. He had offered to help if we needed anything after Fort William. He had our tracker info. so just appeared without our help.

After being plied with food and tea from Mark he also generously supplied us with some camping food for a donation. Ewen took a video of us for about a km after leaving the hostel.

From time to time C’s knowledge of the natural world would appear. Once this was combined with a lyrical flourish. Upon hearing the dulcet tones of the cuckoo he was excited. This was an endangered species and it was nearby! He then declared…

The cuckoo comes in April, In May it sings all day, In June it changes it’s tune and in July it flies away.”

Our destination for the day was Maol Buidhe bothy, one of the remotest lodgings in the UK. The main attraction for the 2 of us is that it would have 4 walls and a roof. I could not imagine another night outside in the cold, boggy, damp conditions. Mile after mile of bog passed. At one point C pointed to some distant object and declared it was the bothy. Turned out to be a mirage. Bogs are as bad as deserts for conjuring up wishful thinking.

At long last a white object appeared in the distance. This time it was the real thing. However the shelter was not about to give up its comforts easily. The sting in the tail was a substantial river to cross.

Upon entering the bothy we found there were already 4 occupants for the night. Two were in the room upstairs and two downstairs. The downstairs couple Peter and Andrea were from Hungary. I think it might have been something to do with our appearance. Almost immediately they started offering us food which we eagerly consumed. Nuts, chocolates, even a risotto we cooked on their frying pan. All adding to the food we had brought. They could not have been kinder or more attentive. The kindness of strangers. At one point I said to Peter that he was an angel. Gave him the Starfish QR code which he promised he would look up once back in phone contact. They were carrying loads of gear, I think 19kg, compared to our 7kg. Their food apparently was being sent ahead to drop off points. We apparently were helping them as there had too much food to carry. Always happy to assist in this way! The bothy had a fireplace but nothing to burn. With no trees or dead wood for many miles around it was probably little used.

As the daylight faded the rain grew more intense. Was so thankful we were inside. I was looking forward to going into my sleeping bag and imagined a night of luxury not inside a wet bivvy bag. Beware of visualising the future too much. As I settled for the night I felt it was quite damp but hoped my weapon against the cold would kick in. There was no fire but there were hand warmers! Little bags that when outer packaging is opened and rubbed give out about 50C heat for up to 10 hours. You can off course use on hands but also feet etc. However something was not right. Suddenly realised that water was dripping inside my bag. I was lying under what was a very leaky roof! Before it got too bad managed to move to a drip free area for rest of night.

Day 6 – Fri  28 April 2023.   Maol Buidhe bothy – Kinlochewe 42.9 km. 1149m ascent

Goodbye Maol Buidhe

Next morning the rain had stopped and the air felt clearer. A brief brew for a hot drink and also eat most of our remaining rations. Saying goodbye to Peter as we left. As said the bothy required a river crossing to arrive and on our departure another river needed to be crossed. It was as if there was a special entry and leaving requirement. Starting day 6 seemed to have a nice ring about it. Might I, dare I, think a 7 day target was now possible? No, could not entertain that thought till the end of day if we made it to Kinlochewe. Every day had its unique challenges, hardships and blessings. Beware the mind games of doing anything other than living in the moment.

Our aim was to end the day at the campsite in Kinlochewe. C was concerned for me not to spend that night in a bivvy. At a time when phone coverage worked he got in contact with Ewen and wondered if he had a spare tent he could get to Kinlochewe. No problem – it seemed nothing was too difficult for him. It was arranged that Elisabeth would pick up from Ewen’s home near Inverness. She was travelling north to Aultbea by car from Glasgow that day. A dry tent to look forward to. Once again blessed.

Some of the valleys we entered were stunningly beautiful and unspoilt.

Each day there was a continual interplay of the physical and the mental. When stopped it felt mentally stressful as then had to organise food, clothing and shelter needs. Of course it was physically easier when stationary. When moving it felt mentally easier. I was making progress, the km were passing, I was getting nearer my daily and week’s goal. However the 12 -13 hours of movement was physically demanding. Although we were not running we were going about twice the speed of the few Cape Wrath Trail walkers we met. We could call it a fast hike.

Our only possibility of food on the way that day was at a hostel near Craig. Bit of disappointment as we couldn’t find anyone around. Nothing for it but to press on. C looked a bit disbelieving as the route now pointed to a barely visible path rising steeply through the bushes.

Once we had gained a bit of height we determined to use our lightweight stoves to get a hot drink and eat a little of what remained of our diminishing supplies. There was still about 16km left to go before day’s end.

For the last few km we wearily joined the single track road from Torridon heading for Kinlochewe. Probably the most dangerous time of the whole day. We nearly got knocked off the road by a speeding camper van which seemed unaware of our presence. It feels vulnerable to be unsteady on your feet with a rucksack on the road.

Arriving at the campsite we were soon joined by Elisabeth who brought food as well as a tent and warm clothing from Ewen. It was a 3 man tent so it felt like a mansion. Elisabeth was going to motor on to Aultbea. Great to get a shower that evening and contemplate that there was only 1 day left and we were on target.

Tucking in to some very welcome supplies.

That evening we realised that the earliest breakfast in Kinlochewe would be 0830. It would mean a late morning start to what would be a long and challenging day. A call to Ewen and it was sorted. He would come along for 0730 in the morning, pick up tent and any excess gear we wished to shed as well as bring breakfast. Fantastic, thank you Ewen.


Day 7 – Sat  29 April 2023.   Kinlochewe – Aultbea 38.85 km. 1776m ascent

A new day but with a spring in my step. Enthusiasm however was dampened as C shared how he felt the blisters he had been trying to manage were getting worse. Studying the map he realised there was no easy way out if he had difficulty continuing. Not wanting to cause me problems on the last day he decided to not join me. It was hard. We had shared the meat of the whole journey for these past 3 days. Ewen arrived with our breakfast and took our gear as promised. Cammie got a lift with him to Aultbea so would see him at end of the day. I would be alone but it had only been possible to come this far with Elisabeth, Cammie and Ewen’s help.

So I set off through the village to eventually join the rather faint track along the east of Loch Maree. At times it was very hard going. My feet had been swollen and nearly always wet for some days. Could have done with a shoe size larger. The path to Letterewe was very hard to follow and at times seemed to be just animal tracks. Passed some amazing waterfalls with caves. At one point the path became quite clear but ended with what was probably a 4m drop into a deep pool in front of a waterfall. Maybe many decades ago there had been a bridge.

The path to nowhere.

At last the well tended buildings of Letterewe estate came into view. It was accessed by boat from the other side of loch Maree.

Letterewe estate buildings

I was now leaving loch Maree with a very welcome and fresh looking sign saying ‘Poolewe’. Poolewe was the coastal village about 10km south of Aultbea. Although not headed for there it signalled that the end was within reach. A steep climb but on a fresh looking 4 wheel drive trail. It tempted me to think that this was going to be the terrain all the way. A long journey on 2 feet is prone to many false imaginations. About half way up in the warming sunshine I decided to have a hot drink courtesy of my micro stove. Also ate some of the snack bars I had left and been carrying for emergencies.

Pressing on upwards along this wide and clear path I reached the mountain pass. I was then greeted with two shocks. Firstly the path stopped and completely disappeared. More disconcertingly I was crossing over into the Fionn loch area a few km south east of where I should be. Was later told I also climbed an extra 300m needlessly. I should have borne left on another path just after having my hot drink.

The path that disappeared. The southern end of Fionn loch is shown.

The one saving grace was the sheer beauty of Fionn loch. To think that my maternal grandfather had spent decades as gamekeeper in this area. I was a mere tourist passing through. He lived off the land.

Slioch and Loch Maree.

There was nothing for it but to continue contouring along north west until I would hit the trail. Once on the trail it was not long before another surprise. My cousin Ewen again. He had come to meet me by mountain bike. There, in the middle of the trail, was a frying pan, stove and 2 gigantic hot dogs with trimmings cooked for me. They tasted fantastic. I only managed one but gladly took the remaining one for later. It would be needed as energy levels were later to dwindle.

Hot dog on the trail.

Continuing on Ewen followed me for a bit taking photos until he took his leave into the distance on his bike. Back with my own thoughts I realised there was probably almost 20km left.

Following the trail would lead me to Poolewe. My destination was Aultbea so in time I had to depart from the Poolewe track and enter what was labelled ‘Bad Bog’ on maps. It couldn’t be worse than I had been through surely? I was wrong. It was also featureless and to add to a slight sense of peril I lost my paper map. Still only a blank tracker on OS with no features and no phone service. It also started to chill with the ever present north wind. It all made for what was for me very challenging navigation. At last a familiar track appeared 8 -10 km south of Aultbea. At one point I could even see the sea! I was going to make it.

On approaching Drumchork on the outskirts of the village I heard the sound of bagpipes. Played by a local piper Anndra it was a great welcome to be greeted by Elisabeth, my parents and Cammie. I had determined to go all the way to my parents’ home so there was still another 2km or so to go. And another bagpipe welcome!

Elisabeth, Cammie and I
Happy feet!

A week had passed (actually 157 hours); 421,397 steps; 325.15 km; 9,750m climbing (approx. 9,800m descent).

I am thankful and conscious of the prayers and support of many. As said before I could not have done it without Elisabeth’s support. Psychologically in encouraging me when doubts arose and of course practically. She has loads of experience in all my endurance events! Cammie coming on board for the second half was crucial. I doubt very much if I could have done that on my own. My cousin Ewen was also a critical help at strategic points – thank you.

Several times during the week I was moved by the solitude but was not alone.

“The heavens declare the glory of God; the skies proclaim the work of his hands. Day after day they pour forth speech; night after night they reveal knowledge. They have no speech, they use no words; no sound is heard from them. Yet their voice goes out into all the earth, their words to the ends of the world.”

Psalm 19 verse 1-4.NIVUK

Related blogs

‘The Highlander’s Return’ – Vision

The Highlander’s Return – Preparation

‘The Highlander’s Return’ – Ready

As with previous endurance runs I am fund-raising for Starfish Asia. They help disadvantaged and impoverished children from mainly Christian families in Pakistan get an education. A solar panel system for an average school costs about £2,000. Generous donors have given over £6,500. This will equip at least 3 schools – this is way beyond my expectations, thank you so much! For most of the Starfish schools a lack of power is an increasing problem. Solar panels being installed provide stable electricity, especially for lighting and fans during the summer. There is a dedicated fund-raising page set up with Starfish for this purpose. If you would like to help you can donate here If the page has closed you can also donate at starfishasia.com

‘The Highlander’s Return’ – Vision

A 325km off road adventure from Glasgow to Wester Ross, Scotland

23 – 29/30 Apr 2023

Red line = ‘The Highlander’s Return’ (very roughly drawn!)

Over 65 years ago my parents moved from their Highland coastal villages in Wester Ross in North West Scotland to Glasgow for work. Many thousands of Highlanders have done the same migration. Glasgow was where I grew up. However I spent many long and happy summer holidays on Scotland’s north west coast. Often meeting with cousins and other relatives. It left fond memories of that time of life. Upon their retirement my mother and father moved back there to where they had grown up.

From 23 – 29/30 April 2023 I have set myself the challenge of doing an off road 7-8 day trail run/ fast hike from Glasgow to Aultbea, Wester Ross in the North West Highlands of Scotland. The idea has been in my mind for several years but have kept putting it out of my mind.

It’s not an immediate yes. It takes a while for all parts of me to get onboard. I may even dance with the idea for years before I finally commit to it.

Nimsdai Purja, ‘Beyond Possible’

Finally deciding to do it now feels like a kind of pilgrimage. Travelling to my family roots on two feet. Other feelings include fear, anticipation, excitement, a sense of impending adventure and the unknown, all in equal measure.

The plan is to take 3 days from Glasgow (Milngavie) to Fort William following the 155 km of the West Highland Way. This route is familiar to me, and is a marked trail. After Fort W. the next 4-5 days will be partly on the Great Glen Way, Cape Wrath Trail and my own variation. A rough estimate of the total distance from maps is about 325 km (203 miles). As the terrain is rugged in the second half the route planned may have to be adjusted.  

From Fort William it will be all new territory with several sectors of it trackless. Think bogs, moors, hillsides, valleys and streams in off grid, remote areas. Trying to go around mountains rather than over. For me this will be the first time doing several long-distance days in a row and resting during the nights. Weather conditions could be a factor. It will be very different from the 24-36 hour continuous runs I have been doing previously. It requires an additional skill set in addition to endurance.

‘Accommodation’ along the way will be a mixture of several nights wild camping (bivouac), staying in at least one bothy (basic remote shelter), maybe youth hostel and even a bed and breakfast. Idea is to travel as light and fast as possible. Trying to pick up food along the way and/ or eat wherever it is possible. Aiming to carry no more than 6-7kg. I am deeply grateful to Cammie Kennedy, a regular running buddy, for being willing to accompany me for the 4-5 days from Fort William to the end. His experience and skill in mountain running and wild camping is much appreciated. He has helped me to keep focussed and think through practical and mental issues. At Fort William and at the end my wife Elisabeth will also be helping. A consistent encourager in all my endurance endeavours.

Recent training run in Arrochar Alps

Related blogs

The Highlander’s Return’ – One Week In April – This is the account of my journey 23 – 29 Apr 2023

‘The Highlander’s Return’ -Preparation

‘The Highlander’s Return’ -Ready

As with previous endurance runs I want to fund raise for Starfish Asia. They help disadvantaged and impoverished children from mainly Christian families in Pakistan get an education. A solar panel system for an average school costs about £2,000. It would be great to raise enough for 1 school, but if 2 (£4,000) that would be fantastic. For most of the Starfish schools a lack of power is an increasing problem. Solar panels being installed would provide stable electricity, especially for lighting and fans during the summer. There is a dedicated fund-raising page set up with Starfish for this purpose. If you would like to help you can donate here

‘The Highlander’s Return’ – Preparation

A 325km off road adventure from Glasgow to Wester Ross, Scotland

23 – 29/30 Apr 2023

Red line = ‘The Highlander’s Return’ (very roughly drawn!)

A previous blog outlined the idea behind this big run/ fast hike. I use both terms to describe. In my heart I would love to ‘run’ all 325 km or so. For the organised ultra runs I have participated in previously that has been the priority though often you were reduced to walking. However I know in my head that in the Highlander’s Return running will only be for some of the time. This is not a race and the planned distances each day are self imposed. The fact remains that trying to do this in 7, maybe 8, days means a marathon a day in sometimes gruelling terrain. Whatever you call it it involves endurance. In the end I would like to enjoy the journey and have time to smell the proverbial roses and reflect along the way.

Gear and safety

I am new to the world of ultra light wild camping. Here lighter means more expensive! Otherwise the kit performs well and saving weight means more energy to move. I am starting to like my…

75g gas stove; 220g gas canister; 500g bivvy; 500g sleeping bag; 500g air bed

A recent trip trying out the cooking gear.

A key category of gear are safety items. Navigation apps and mobile phone for communication as well as a power bank. For second half of route old fashioned printed/ laminated maps and compass should electronic equipment fail. Something I have use of but hope to never use is a satellite GPS transponder and tracker for emergencies. Other items that will hopefully be redundant include a mountaineering cordellete (for crossing streams) and some first aid items. Above all for me a great reassurance is to have a travelling companion Cammie Kennedy with me in the second half of the route. Joining in the second half also means that he will be stronger and fresh where I will likely be feeling the effects of fatigue.

Food

At the most am hoping not to carry more than a few dehydrated meals with me. Rest of the time the plan is to buy food in stores or eat heartily in the few establishments along the way. Estimated daily calorific requirement about 4,000 cals. For fluids it will be water. Don’t want the weight of energy drink powder but am using isotonic drink tablets as well as tablets to purify water taken from streams. Also some emergency food consisting of gels and energy bars. Hot water for tea / coffee and rehydrating meals courtesy of my minimalist ‘kitchen’ set. 

Portable kitchen containing pot/mug, mitt(!), stove and gas canister.

Clothing

Mainly what I wear throughout the day. Change into dry base layers for end of day and sleeping. 

Altogether the plan is to carry no more than 7kg. 

Physical and psychological 

Have been maintaining my usual running pattern of 3-4 times per week. Find that that frequency works for me. At my age and stage of life I need to prioritise time to recover. A key element over the winter months is that usually I am in the hills twice a week. Living in Glasgow I am blessed with lots of destinations less than an hour away. In Scotland the winter conditions at 700-1,000 metres and mountain tops can be radically different from that at sea level so it is good preparation. My days of getting faster are unlikely but going up and down mountains also help to maintain strength in the legs. I am thankful for running buddy Cammie who pushes me beyond my comfort zone.

The mental side of things is the hardest to control. The other things I can do something about. 

Related blogs

The Highlander’s Return’ – One Week In April – This is the account of my journey 23 -29 Apr 2023.

‘The Highlander’s Return’ – Vision

‘The Highlander’s Return’ – Ready

As with previous endurance runs I want to fund raise for Starfish Asia. They help disadvantaged and impoverished children from mainly Christian families in Pakistan get an education. A solar panel system for an average school costs about £2,000. It would be great to raise enough for 1 school, but if 2 (£4,000) that would be fantastic. For most of the Starfish schools a lack of power is an increasing problem. Solar panels being installed would provide stable electricity, especially for lighting and fans during the summer. There is a dedicated fund-raising page set up with Starfish for this purpose. If you would like to help you can donate here

Gumption in the Forest?

A new day

Whilst in Sweden visiting family my wife planned to visit a relative in another town, Ulricehamn. It is situated at the north end of Åsunden lake, about 100km east of Gothenburg, Sweden’s second largest city. The idea popped into my head that rather than jump in the car what about running there instead and then get a lift back. 

Up to the day before my plan had been to follow part of Sjuhäradsrundan, the cycle route along the disused railway. However it would mainly be covered in tarmac. I didn’t like what would effectively be a road run. A last minute suggestion persuaded me to instead join part of Sjuhäradsleden, a long-distance forest trail. It would make it easier on my feet but not for navigation. I have got lost in the forests of Sweden several times before. It was difficult to ascertain the distance on this new route but it looked like marathon distance which turned out to be right. 

So last Monday at 0630 I set off from where we were staying in the forest. Initially on a gravel road to Gånghester, a village on outskirts of Borås town. Plan was to join the former railway track there and then link in with the forestry trail from Dalsjöfors.

A short way into run I passed a place where several years ago I bumped into 2 elks whilst rounding the corner. All 3 of us were equally surprised. Despite them being strongly associated with Sweden they are elusive creatures and I have only seen a few times. On that occasion I carefully backed away. They are big and not to be messed with. Had I been running a few weeks later in October the elk hunting season begins. Then it wouldn’t be elks but people to watch out for. It is not advisable to enter deep forest when groups of hunters are out and about.

On this occasion I was thinking not so much of elks but more of elk fleas (‘älgloppa’). They are hard to get rid off once on your skin but thankfully don’t bite. Same can’t be said about the ticks. Nasty, infectious bites with even nastier potential disease. Plenty of them especially in long grass. In this there was some similarity to Scotland! 

Known to me as elk corner.

On the former rail track from Gånghester to Dalsjöfors I met a few early morning cyclists on their way to work. Also a guy running much faster than I at about 10 km/hour pace pushing a child’s buggy. I was not going to be tempted to keep up and kept to my modest 8km/hr as he moved ahead.

Runner and buggy receding into distance.

Arriving Dalsjöfors instructions from family were ‘turn right and join the forest trail when you see Toarps State church up on hill to the left‘. I couldn’t see church for trees but thankfully saw the sign. Interesting that all over rural Europe directions to finding your way are often given in relation to the church of a village or town. Maybe a message there. Eventually after gaining some height I did see the church.

Toarps church peeking through the trees

The route I was now on was Sjuhäradsleden which I would follow all the way to Ulricehamn. Where I joined it was well marked and was so for most of journey. An orange diamond or painted line seen clearly on trees, poles etc. The only gripe I have with Swedish orientation signs are that there are often markings 50m or so after a fork in the trail, rarely at the fork itself. For me, it can mean carefully checking some way up each arm of the fork. However I think Swedes know what they are doing as orienteering is very popular with all ages in Sweden. They are very good at it. On second thoughts maybe looking some distance ahead rather than focussing close at hand gives better awareness of where you are. There might be a life lesson there. You the reader can decide.

Spot the sign!

Terrain was frequently changing from gravelled roads to thick forest. The latter required concentration and awareness of where I was. Also the occasional meadow but the overall sense was of trees everywhere. At more open farm steadings the route would often deviate from the farm road to make a detour into a field. I guess the farmer wanted privacy. That said one landowner told me enthusiastically that I go through her house front gate as that was the route.

Field detour

A few times the trail was ‘booby trapped’ with electric fences requiring an inelegant sliding along the ground. I guess the safety of grazing animals takes priority over the ease with which two legged travellers can pass through.

Over, in-between or under?

Mostly it was quiet and at times even felt lonely. For about 25km think I only met one person and quite a number of contented horses and sheep.

The final 10km or so of the route felt hard. Few pictures of this last section, too pre-occupied. I was getting weary and adopting a run-walk strategy. The forest terrain was more difficult to traverse, the trail underfoot becoming fainter and mixing with other tracks. However what made it most difficult was that suddenly the trail stopped being marked. No more welcome orange diamonds or lines giving reassurance of progress. I now had to follow the map downloaded the night before and which I had not studied. Ended up getting lost.

This is what lost looks like!

When lost on a trail my usual experience is of mild panic and a sense of wasted time and energy. I blindly strike out in whatever direction seems best. This time I decided to be calm, go slowly and patiently retrace my steps back to where I last knew where I was. No second guessing my location and trying to make up time with ‘shortcuts’. 

My strategy paid off and gradually I was ‘free’ of the last forested area. I now had the wider perspective of lush fields. A few more km of this and I was on a cycle path leading to Ulricehamn’s town centre and my destination.  

Cycle track into Ulricehamn.

42.3km, 640m climb, 693m descent. 6hrs 2mins.