I divide my walk into the same sections as Jeremy. In fact, I think of it as 4 walks, each lasting about 3 days. For me this is an important part of managing what goes on in my head. The Challenge is not just physical or navigational but also tests resilience and staying power when it's cold and wet and I'm tired and wondering why I set out on this thing in the first place. Saying to myself at moments like that: "I'll be somewhere with lights and warmth the day after tomorrow, so I'll just carry on till then and then I can stop if I want to" stops me feeling overwhelmed. Then when I get there, I say: "well, I'll just do the next bit" and so I fool myself to getting to the east coast!

On the social vs wilderness question, there are as many answers as there are Challengers and that is one of the joys of it. Personally,I like to walk alone and wild camp alone. I am always pleased to meet people on the way, but rarely hook up with anyone for any length of time. When I come down to the crossing points, though, I head straight for the pub and seek out the Challengers. But the walk tests me physically and so I can't drink heavily one night and still walk the next day. I wish I could, though! :)

And, Michael, a pup is a baby dog (seal, elephant, ....). A pub has the beer! :)

Trying to post for the second time .....

Very impressed by Jeremy's comprehensive geography lesson. But may I gently remind folks that the lovely highland village of Kincraig also has a crossing across the Spey (where you might see ospreys), and where you will definitely get a warm welcome.

Hello Michael

As a fellow would be Challenger from Denmark. I am curious as to how you know, that you and your group are already accepted for the Challenge.

Myself I have not heard anything yet, so I guess that unfortunately I am not in.

Best of luck to you and your group.

Regards
Niels

First of all, thanks for all the replies.

And to you Niels.
We don't know. Sorry if we gave that impression. That wasn't intended. Of cause we are all hoping... and 'frustrated', waiting to hear something from Ali and Sue.

Hope to see you in May. Speaking of May and you being a fellow dane. How are you planning to travel to Scotland? Just curious. We have looked at flying and driving (through the tunnel), since the ferry from Esbjerg to UK aren't an option anymore.

Have a look at driving to IJmuiden (15k west from Amsterdam) and using the DFDS night ferry to Newcastle. You'll be in the Highlands at noon next morning.