Author Archives: victoria hoffer

Over on the left, there, is Alistair, to whom we are indebted for his outstanding hosting skills. He was gracious, delightful and especially efficient, which is a lot, when on top of that, he is a dead ringer for George Clooney’s twin brother. On the right are Emily and Crystal + parents (from Arizona), withContinue reading “Blackfold to Inverness”

The final segment of the GGW, from Drumnadrochit to Inverness, 18-21 1/2 miles, depending on how you measure the distance, is done by the hearty in one day. Depending on how you measure the distance? Yes. For example, our B and Bs, in both locations were some distance form the measuring points, and even thoughContinue reading “Blackfold to Drumnadrochit”

But we made it longer. More of that in a minute. First some emoting about the wee cabin in which we stayed in Fort Augustus. It was the best stop yet. Other places have been luxurious and tasteful, and had wonderful breakfasts, but this B and B was unique. Out of every window—and there wereContinue reading “A Short Day”

“Pleasant” aptly describes the GGW. Rarely dramatic and almost tediously flat, the scenery is almost always pleasing. Its one bad, frequent feature is the walking surface; very hard on the bottom of one’s feet, even through hiking boots. We were ambling along, enjoying the bird song, when all of a sudden, a creature, too smallContinue reading “Two Days on the GGW”

One would think that on a Saturday, every ferry would be running to every little island, but such is not the case. We had a choice: Skye or Knoydart: Knoydart is not really an island but it is accessible only by boat: First one takes a train from Fort William—assuming one is in Fort William—toContinue reading “R and R between The WHW and the GGW”

Our climb up The Ben was scheduled for Saturday, but after much equivocation, very very much, we opted for Friday, originally our rest day. Neither day promised great weather (there are clear views from the top only a few times a month), but, among several weather variables, the deciding factor was the temperature. It wasContinue reading “Ben Nevis”

Our top-of-the-line B and B, provides not only fluffy-spa-like robes, but dinner, if one desires. Of this offering we took advantage last night. Fresh trout (Jerry Anne) and salmon (me), certainly beat pub food. An extravagant breakfast that surpassed the deliciousness of dinner, fortified us well for the Devil’s Staircase. First, another quiz. (Answer atContinue reading “The Devil’s Stiarcase”

Three nights at Ewich House, from which place we were taxied to our starting point for the morning’s walk, or picked up in the afternoon, were lots of fun. The owner, whose affect made you want to salute and say, “Yes, SIR!” was actually most accommodating, efficient, and thoughtful. While there, we had dinner aContinue reading “Bridge of Orchy to Kings House, sort of”

Nine miles in fine weather, through gorgeous scenery feels like a short stroll, and in fact, today’s walk was essentially a half day. No drama, but still, much prettiness to see on the way. For example, this bridge: And whoa, what a tunnel! Shamrocks in flower: And here are some dancing on a log: SnowContinue reading “A Short Day-Make That Two- and Off The Trail”

After a beautiful breakfast, as we were about to leave, packs on our backs and all, the B and B proprietress asked, quite sweetly, “Now which of you ladies is going to pay the bill?” “Why that would be me!” A quick run back to the room to pick up the money, inadvertently left onContinue reading “Rowardennan to Inverarnon”