I am also starting at Torridon.

My travel details are much the same as yours only I arrive at Inverness from Aberdeen.

Hope to see you at Inverness.

Hi Martin,

Good to see you're on again this year.

I started from Torridon last year.

There were a fair few starting from there and Dave Wood organised a mini-bus/taxi to Torridon from Inverness - for those who were interested - I think we had 8-10 altogether. Can't remember the exact cost, but, it was around £10 - £12 a head.

It's by far the easiest way and I'm sure you could get enough folk interested to organise a mini-bus/taxi for this year.

Get the bus from Strathcarron, if the train is a bit late it waits. There is a camp site adjacent to the YH, a bit basic but much better than you'll have for most of the following two weeks!

Hi Martin

When I started from Torridon, I got the minibus from Strathcarron to Shieldaig then (after a pint in the pub) walked to Torridon. Some buses went all the way to Torridon and some only as far as Shieldaig. That was in 2011 and I had my nicest weather of the whole two weeks in that 7 mile walk between Shieldaig and Torridon!

I found a group of like minded folk, back in 2007. We met at Inverness, and got a minibus that I had previously arranged all the way to Torridon. Worth considering.

All things being equal I'd go for the train/bus combo. Why? Well, the train journey from InverBubbly > Strathcarron is a joy, as is the bus up to Torridon. And the train/bus connection is secured. When you get on the train, be sure that get into the correct carriage. The train splits after a short distance. And take a seat on the right-hand side of the carriage - this way you'll have a mighty view over Beauly Firth.

I do like a period of de-compression before starting the Challenge, and prefer to make my own way. But each to her/his own!

I'm starting from Shiel Bridge this year - first time from that locale - and am training it down to Kyle of Lochalsh and then a short bus trip east simply because the train trip is so fine.

But Gordon and Andy's suggestions re taxi are also excellent.

Thanks for the advice everyone, think I'm going for the train/bus combo.
De compression prior to the challenge is to be recommended! I remember last time spending the first 2 days with dreadful headaches as my body rid itself of the various toxins! This time I'm taking coffee and whiskey so will hopefully avoid a cold turkey this time.