The simple shelter of Ryvoan stands short but stout at the eastern foot of Meall a’Bhuachaille. I took this photo shortly after I had emerged from unpacking my bulging rucksack. In my eagerness to be prepared for anything, I had stuffed it with many unnecessary items that I was sure I would need for my first night in a bothy. I promised myself to pack more frugally in future! #scotland #bothy #bothytales #outdoors #hiking #backpacking #travel #landscape #photography #nature #writing #mindfulness

How about a new tag for outdoor tales: the #BothyTales. And here is one to kick it off:

Some years ago, perhaps dozen or so, myself and my pal Iain decided to do one of the classic Cairngorm bike tours, the one that takes in Faindouran, the Fords of Avon and Glen Derry. We used to do quite a few trips like these back then, and on this particular occasion were joined by Iain’s dad and one of his pals (both founding members of the MBA), and a lady friend of theirs. 1/x