There are not many choices for the challengers after Ruigh Aitechain Bothy, the most obvious one is to walk alogside the river Feshie and Geldie Burn in Braemar’s direction. The most popular overnight stops at this section are newly reopened Red Bothy and the White Bridge further along the Geldie Burn. So, almost all of us was headed that direction, leaving the camp one after another.
Walk alongide Feshie was just perfect, couldn’t ask for more. It was like a feast for all my senses. Spectacular views of the glen and the mountains. Songs of all the birds interlapping with the gentle flow of the river. Warm caressing of the sun on my face. Smell of the bird cherry hanging above the valley. Oh, what a heavenly smell that was, at the moment my favourite in the whole world.
And then, all of a sudden, something run just past me, bringing me back from the daydream. Ruby! She stopped for cuddles. Ruby was a highlight of my stay at Glen Feshie. Young border collie hiking with her owner, Ian. Stunning girl who stole hearts of all of those who camped at the bothy the previous night. Oh yes, there is one thing about the challenge that makes it not as perfect- dogs are not allowed. Dogs, doggos, pups, poochies- I love meeting them on my walks, they just brighten up my days. If only they were allowed- the challenge couldn’t be any better! At least there are some dogs you can still meet on the path (and get a kiss or two).
Following the river I soon came across the stunning waterfall, crossed the bridge and left Feshie behind. Heat was becoming too much. It was over 20 degrees and full sun. It wasn’t gently touching my skin anymore. It was burning. And there was nowhere to hide, no woods, no shade. I was taking little breaks by the small river. The Red House wasn’t far away. I’ve had another easy and short day. Despite slowing down and taking my time to enjoy the walk, I already reached the bothy at 4pm. Dropped my backpack and took a look inside. You could tell it has only been opened the previous year, still so fresh. Would love to spend the night there. But not that night. After a short break I decided to carry on towards the White Bridge.
Why have I decided to do that, I don’t know. It was hot, way too hot. I took the tshirt off (I did have the sports bra underneath!). So hot. All of a sudden, I have lost all my energy. I found a tree and sat in the shade. Drank some water, Ate a chocolate bar. I was feeling weak and tired. I walked past the White Bridge. There were many tents there but it was quiet. Guessing everyone was struggling with the heat. I walked for maybe a half a mile more and spotted the perfect camp by the river. How peaceful and serene it was!
I pitched my tent feeling absolutely exhausted. I was struggling, my brain stopped working. My evening routine took me way longer than it normally does, I couldn’t focus. Made my dinner and walked towards the river, ate my food with my feet in cold water. It felt good. It felt so good.
When I came back to my tent I couldn’t do anything but lie down. It was too hot to sleep. I was just laying there waiting for the sun to disappear behind the mountains. I was so tired. And weak. Feeling a little bit dizzy. Then I realised I was experiencing a mild heatstroke. I drank some more water. Took paracetamol. Unable to move, just laying on my mat.
Sun finally went down. But the night didn’t bring me the much needed rest. Cold and shivering. Nauseous. Bowel cramps. Worried about the next day.
Route taken: Ruigh Aiteachain- River Feshie- Geldie Burn- Red Bothy- White Bridge (27km)
Outdoors with Karolina 