Hi all,

I'm putting together a plan for a trip to Scotland in 2009. I plan on hiking/backpacking most of it, with a occasional bus or postbus ride.

I would like to spend at least 3 weeks, maybe a month. Probably start out in Edinburgh, then by bus to Oban or Fort William, then set off on foot, spending most of the time on the west coast highlands and isles.

This will probably be the only time I'll ever have to do this. I'm getting older and life gets in the way so I won't be able to do this forever. I'll go back, but in much more comfort in my later years.

Ok, on to the questions. I plan on staying at a hostel occasionally, even a B&B along the way for a rest for a day or two, but mostly I'm planning on camping, or wild camping as it's referred to there. Basically, I'm pitching a small tent or even just throwing out a bag and snoozing. From what I understand, the Scottish Outdoor Access Code allows one to pretty much camp anywhere, within reason and respect. Is this true? Some of my travel will be totally off roads. I HOPE to spend a lot of time not seeing anyone...experiencing the country itself. Eating in small pubs and such. Not that I don't enjoy the people, not at all, I will have plenty of time for that.

Any feedback on the plan or ideas much needed and appreciated.

Kilt reference? I plan on doing all of this kilted of course. I'm traveling fairly light and a kilt should allow me to omit at least two pr. of pants, and underwear!

Any ideas on the best time of year? I don't want to go at the height of tourist season, but reasonable weather would be nice, and out of midge season too!

I plan on at least one kilt, probably a heavyweight, maybe, just maybe, a great kilt, given the nature of my travel.

Most likely I'll be alone, as my wife isn't keen on the idea, unless there are some x-markers who might wish to join me, however the group would be very small, say 3 or 4 maximum. I'm sure I'll make a few stops to say hi to some of our x-markers in Scotland as well.

This'll give me enough time to get back into hiking shape. It's been a few years.

Thanks in advance for the input.

T.