Beinn Alligin from Forsinard (9 days)

[Collaciotach]

Glé mhath a bhalaich cord ruim gu dearbh .... great stuff I enjoyed that

There is a book in your adventures ille there really is

[Klaasloopt]

Glad you all liked it. It's a challenge and an honor to turn a walk into a good read.
I admit, it cost me some energy to avoid being grumpy about the weather and see the beauty all the same.

Out of interest why did you decide you do this expedition in April, more challenging?

What made you do a long trek so early in the season? Are you terrorised by the wee beasties???

Actually, this trip was done later than the last three trips. Snow is beautiful and fun, but I wanted to avoid the crampons, deep snow and last years cold, which was at my limit for camping and climbing. I liked the longer days, but yes, would like to avoid midges and especially ticks which I pick up easily tramping through ferns and shrubs. (worse: woollen socks, worn all day, in your sleeping bag)

There's some appeal to that northern bog. I have a couple of routes planned, but haven't been brave enough to do them yet. Did you start or finish on the 1st?

Ah, come on Malky, you've climbed Ben Armine haven't you?

And for the shoes: the answer is 'no stitching'. One piece leather boots with a rubber rand, or one piece mesh trainers (with a very strong mesh). I will place my bet on AltBerg Fremingtons for walking 1500 miles in one go.

[Scotjamie]

Pure Klaas...as always
Even the eggs get a mention as usual

Inspiring

[weaselmaster]

Ah - I enjoyed reading that even more than last year's report - truly wonderful, inspirational writing and travelling.
2016 is too long to wait for another instalment!

[Essan]

Excellent! And what an eccentric route Just imagine it in good weather (sorry )

[londonwalker]

Loved the report Klaas and photos, some wild country and weather you experienced there. Shame you missed the meet in that corner of the world too

On the footwear point I have a pair of lightweight boots from Brasher - superlite model. not the best in the world but they could be a compromise, the sole is not very deep so wear out a bit quick, however you can get a decent Vibram sole put on as a replacement from a company called LSR in Burnley, as long as the midsole is in good condition

[Klaasloopt]

Excellent! And what an eccentric route Just imagine it in good weather (sorry )

Thanks, I take the 'eccentric' as a compliment. And most important: the route is good, even in bad weather, luckily.

Londonwalker: I've set my eye on a pair of Altberg Fremingtons. Heavy, yes, but build to last.

[Klaasloopt]

In 2015 I plan to walk to Rome (totally abstract thing to me right now).

Yup, it is still very abstract, but I am actually going on this 100-day walk to Rome. Will leave from my doorstep this february 23. The route will take me along the Rhine into Germany, across the Alps in Austria, down into Italy by way of South Tyrol and Garda, over to Bologna, through the Apennines to Assisi and the final 250k to Rome.

No need to say there's lots of things that could prevent me from finishing the trip. I'm spooked allright.

[ere1]

In 2015 I plan to walk to Rome (totally abstract thing to me right now).

Yup, it is still very abstract, but I am actually going on this 100-day walk to Rome. Will leave from my doorstep this february 23. The route will take me along the Rhine into Germany, across the Alps in Austria, down into Italy by way of South Tyrol and Garda, over to Bologna, through the Apennines to Assisi and the final 250k to Rome.

No need to say there's lots of things that could prevent me from finishing the trip. I'm spooked allright.

Good luck Klaas! Peter