Having done the Ghru several times and stayed at Corrour Bothy, I can heartily recommend Glen Feshie and RA bothy- the Glen is stunning!! Last years challenge was my first trip to Feshie and I cannot wait to go back- the bothy too is splendid and is more than a worthy stand-in for Corrour!

Good luck- I will be applying again as soon as I've paid off my wife for the 2 weeks holidays she had to use to look after the kids- might be a while right enough ;)

Glen Avon to Ballater is a good route - Ballater is a very sociable place to visit - then over Mount Keen to Tarfside would be good for a first timer. NB beware camping outside Ryvoan Bothy, the lecking grouse may keep you awake.