Even before the Royal Mail cutbacks, there wasn't a postal service there so the warden had to carry in all his stuff. I suspect he wouldn't take too kindly to carrying someone else's food.

I think if you wanted to leave a food parcel there, you'd have to deliver it yourself.

I have been to Alltbeithe hostel . Iam amazed at the uncomplementary comments and lack of knowledge ( EASILY available)of this beautifull hostel. Do you deserve acceptance on this crossing even as a first timer who are given allowances ? ( i am only a six timer and did not ask these questions on my first ). Has the original thought lost its way ie Hamish . Just a thought !.

Thanks all for your comments. It looks like all roads lead to Cannich for resupply.

In theory I could lose 1kg of body weight before the trip and then carry an extra day's worth of food without doing more damage to my back.

On the otherhand I just calculated that at this rate I'll miss my dinner in Montrose. So I'll probably replan a less winding route and arrive there a day earlier ...

Hi Paul , Thats the idea be self relient as far as possible i lost 7 lbs on every crossing . i will go again when i can . enjoy .

Oh, Bill, don't start!

Hi Judith , Hope you agree with my responce . If you're a member of the Youth Hostels Assoc. i'm sure you will agree the Assoc. needs support .

Bill, your two comments (so far) in this thread have been contradictory - to me, at least. Yes, I agree that YHs should be supported. (I'm a Life Member of YHA(E&W)).

My comment hoped to put a swift end to any potential sniping at first timers, or at anyone who asks a reasonable question about something they were unsure about.

Maybe I misunderstood the tone of your first response.

Hi Judith , sniping was never my way . I question entrants understanding of the original ideas set down by " Hamish Brown " .

Welcome to the Challenge- all first timers- Scotland's friendliest event.

Alltbeithe is a magical place; to support such places is part of the reason Hamish started the Challenge. But you do need to book these days.

As to Hamish's philosophy on hill-going? It's only a game for which you make up your own rules....

Walk your own walk, folks

Thank-you Val , much better put than my attempt ( with O.A.P. syndrome) .