Globetrotter and TV presenter Alice Morrison has completed a solo, self-supported hike of the Affric Kintail Way in the Scottish Highlands. The 44-mile (71km) trail was undertaken over four days, with Morrison wild camping and carrying a 12kg pack.
Morrison, who previously became the first recorded person to walk the full length of Saudi Arabia, described her latest adventure as a cheaper, less organised endeavour closer to home. She chose the Affric Kintail Way after researching options on Walk Highlands, noting its accessibility by bus from Edinburgh and its reputation for beauty.
Her journey began with rain through conifer plantations near Drumnadrochit. Along the route, she encountered historical sites such as Comar Wood Dun, a former fortified house dating from 400BCE to 200AD. The hike also took her through ancient natural woodlands, over 10,000 years old, dominated by Scots pines and birch.
During her four days on the trail, Morrison reported meeting only eight other people. She spent her third night camping beside a loch, describing it as her best night so far. On her fourth day, she visited the remote Glen Affric hostel for provisions, where she shared stories for a sound art project being run by Chrissie, who manages the hostel.