Southern Upland Way: Scotland's Coast to Coast trail

The Southern Upland Way is Scotland's longest Great Trail, stretching 215 miles from Portpatrick to Cockburnspath. It traverses remote moorland, including the Galloway Hills, Carsphairn range, Lowthers, Ettrick Hills, and Lammermuirs, requiring competence, fitness, and self-reliance. This guide provides planning advice, trail descriptions, mapping, accommodation options, and practical tips for a successful journey. The trail showcases Scotland's wild beauty, historical sites, and local attractions, making it a challenging but rewarding experience.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 192 pages
Publication date: 12 July 2018
Publisher: Cicerone Press

The Southern Upland Way, a remarkable coast-to-coast trail in Scotland, stands as the longest and most renowned among the nation's Great Trails. Spanning an impressive 215 miles, this awe-inspiring journey connects the picturesque harbor village of Portpatrick on the west coast with Cockburnspath, nestled slightly south of Dunbar, in the east. The Southern Upland Way presents a formidable challenge, requiring a high level of competence, fitness, and self-reliance as it traverses the remote and rugged high moorland of the Galloway Hills, Carsphairn range, Lowthers, Ettrick Hills, and Lammermuirs. This comprehensive guide aims to assist adventurers in planning and conquering this arduous yet immensely rewarding expedition. Presented in fourteen stages, each ranging from 9 to 19 miles, the trail is meticulously waymarked, offering a clear path for hikers. Additionally, suggestions for a rest day exploring the charming town of Moffat and its surrounding areas are included, providing an opportunity to recharge and immerse oneself in the region's beauty. Whether travelers opt for a backpacking adventure, taking advantage of five bothies and unlimited wild camping possibilities, or prefer to stay in towns, hill villages, B&Bs, and inns (facilitated by vehicle pick-up to avoid excessively long walking days), this guide covers all the practicalities. Detailed tips on planning, transportation, accommodation, luggage transfer, and vehicle support services are provided, ensuring a seamless and enjoyable journey. Clear step-by-step route descriptions are accompanied by 1:50,000 OS mapping, along with notes on local history, points of interest, and recommended attractions. The appendices offer a trek planner and useful contacts, further enhancing the convenience and accessibility of the Southern Upland Way. As one embarks on this remarkable trek, the Southern Upland Way unveils the awe-inspiring wild beauty of southern Scotland, encompassing rugged moorland, rolling hills, wooded river valleys, lochside trails, and breathtaking coastal vistas. Along the way, hikers encounter charming border towns, each with its unique charm and rich history. The trail also offers numerous historical sites, providing a glimpse into a fascinating past. From ancient cairns to bastles, Covenanters' memorials, and literary connections, the Southern Upland Way offers a treasure trove of insights into Scotland's rich heritage. Additionally, there are opportunities to explore local attractions, such as Castle Kennedy Gardens, Wanlockhead Lead Mining Museum, and Traquhair, adding an extra layer of excitement and discovery to the journey. The Southern Upland Way is a testament to the enduring spirit of adventure and exploration, offering hikers a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to immerse themselves in the breathtaking landscapes, rich history, and cultural heritage of southern Scotland.

Weight: 236g
Dimension: 157 x 136 x 12 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781852849931
Edition number: 2 Revised edition