Today has been the day when I figured out the route. It will take about 13 days and be something like this:

Montrose - Edzall - Glen Clova - Braemar - Glen Feshie - Kinguissie - Laggan - Fort Augustus - Glen Garry - Glen Dessary - Camusrory - Inverie

On the way there will be wild camping, bothies, and maybe the occasional more luxurious accommodation. At present count the route also passes two pubs.

Introducing you to some of the team

Here's a picture of Bonnie (aka Butternut beyond Belief) looking up at the sky. I reckon with four legs she has the advantage although she would say hers are smaller. Total length of walking apparatus is roughly comparable.

So Bonnie will carry her own food in saddle bags which we need to get her used to over the summer.

So, the plan is to walk from Montrose to Knoydart, finishing at Inverie, with Bonnie the retriever. Concerns are as follows:

• It will be very wet and the wind will be strong southwesterly
• Lots of ticks
• What is it like sleeping with a damp dog?

On the other hand, looking forward to

• Unexpected meetings
• Having great days in the outdoors
• Finishing at the Forge Inn
• Getting really fit
• The sense of achievement
• Raising money for Alzheimers Scotland

So, on balance the pros outweigh the cons. A good start.