Acknowledged as a classic of mountain writing, this book takes you into the bothies, howffs and dosses on the Scottish hills as Fishgut Mac, Desperate Dan and Stumpy the Big Yin stalk hill and public house, evading gamekeepers and Royalty.
A guidebook celebrating the bothies of England, Scotland and Wales: a network of huts, cottages and shelters – often in remote mountainous locations – that are completely free to use. The author presents a selection of 26 of her favourite bothies, with notes on access, water, facilities, history and wildlife-spotting opportunities. Includes advice on how to use bothies and bothy etiquette Routes (with mapping) to all of the 26 bothies featured, plus suggestions for what to do when you get there (including nearby hills you might climb) A history of bothies Personal recollections of visits to the 26 bothies Taigh Seumas a' Ghlinne (Glen Coe), Ben Alder Cottage, Ruigh Aiteachain, Ryvoan, Shenavall, Warnscale Head, Greg's Hut and Nant Syddion The majority of bothies are in the Scottish Highlands, but the guide also includes bothies in Dumfries and Galloway, Northumberland, the Pennines, the Lake District, Snowdonia, Mid-Wales and the Brecon Beacons
'Bothy Culture' focuses on exploring the rich subculture that can be found at some of the remotest locations throughout the Scottish wilderness; however, it is much more than that for it is primarily one man's scathing social commentary on what he interprets as "a world gone mad." Often funny, controversial and brutally provocative, Mortimer takes no prisoners in explaining his need to regularly get off-grid and escape the urban/suburban sprawl.
Cairngorms: A Secret History is a series of journeys exploring barely known human and natural stories of the Cairngorm Mountains. It looks at a unique British landscape, its last great wilderness, with new eyes. History combines with travelogue in a vivid account of this elemental scenery. There have been rare human incursions into the Cairngorm plateau, and Patrick Baker tracks them down. He traces elusive wildlife and relives ghostly sightings on the summit of Ben Macdui. From the search for a long-forgotten climbing shelter and the locating of ancient gem mines, to the discovery of skeletal aircraft remains and the hunt for a mysterious nineteenth-century aristocratic settlement, he seeks out the unlikeliest and most interesting of features in places far off the beaten track. The cultural and human impact of this stunning landscape and reflections on the history of mountaineering are the threads which bind this compelling narrative together.
This comprehensive book is an excellent planning resource for those who wish to venture into the Scottish mountains. Whether you are planning a walk, scramble, climb or ski tour this larger format guide has all the information the independent mountain lover needs. The guide covers all the mountainous areas of Scotland from south to north, divided into seven regions. Each regional chapter covers individual glens important for mountain-goers, groups of hills that form coherent massifs and individual hills of significance. However, this is not a route guide and detailed descriptions are not provided. The aim of the book is to inspire and entertain as well as inform; to show first-time visitors just what the Scottish mountains have to offer and provide a new perspective for those who have been before. In the descriptions author Chris Townsend has given his opinions as to the relative qualities of the walks, glens, lochs, mountains and the landscape in general and highlighted those he thinks are the best the area has to offer. Includes: Descriptions of all the Scottish mountains, area-by-area from south to north, to help you identify the best locations for hill walking, mountaineering, climbing and ski touring Classic ascents and walks described, from scrambles up Ben Nevis to ski tours in the Cairngorms A planning tool for long-distance treks
Here is the astonishing blow-by-blow account of how, against fearful odds, freedom-fighter Bruce led the Scots to win their greatest victory ever in the War of Independence. The trail takes us to Bruce sites in Scotland and beyond, over 70 in all, with fully detailed maps. Elaborate illustrations help set the scene on the Bruce's story, which is one part blood and gore, two parts love and laughter. Ross proves himself a master of writing hands-on history with attitude.
Stunning backpacking routes in the Scottish Highlands and Islands are covered in this inspiring, large-format guidebook. 30 routes are described, ranging from 1-4 days, with most suitable for a long weekend. The routes are divided between the Western Highlands and Inner Hebrides, the Central and Eastern Highlands, the Northwest Highlands, the Far North and the Outer Hebrides. They are suitable for those with the experience and self-reliance to navigate proficiently and stay safe in an environment which can easily become inhospitable. Although some routes visit bothies, most call for at least one night's wild camping. Each walk includes overview data, route description and 1:100,000 mapping and they are illustrated with stunning photos. An introduction offers background information about the Highlands' rich geology, plants and wildlife and the historical and cultural context of Scotland's 'wilderness'. There is also practical information on preparing for an incursion and advice for those looking to expand their experience of wild-country backpacking. The Highlands and Islands of Scotland are home to the most ruggedly beautiful, expansive and challenging backpacking country in the British Isles. This is a land for those who love open spaces, vast horizons, and the domination of nature.
The Rough Guide to Scottish Highlands and Islands is the ultimate travel guide to this spectacular region. Written in Rough Guides' trademark honest and informative style, the guide features detailed practical advice on what to see and do and how to get about, plus up-to-date reviews of the best hotels, B&Bs, pubs, activity operators and campsites. This guide covers everything from hiking in the Cairngorms to whale-watching on Mull, plus where to find the best local produce from fresh oysters to fine malt whiskies. There are also features on the area's unique wildlife and where to watch it, plus outdoor activities from mountain biking and climbing to surfing and skiing. With clear maps and detailed coverage of Scotland's islands, national parks and mountain areas, The Rough Guide to Scottish Highlands and Islands will help you make the most of your trip. Make the most of your time on earth with The Rough Guide to Scottish Highlands and Islands. Now available in epub format.