Scotland 2015 So Far……

Buachaille Etive Mor

It has been a busy few months but everything has been made worth it by the last few weeks in Scotland. I have been kayaking for sixteen years and I have been to a lot of different places. I have recently worked out that I have made twenty three kayaking trips to Scotland each with varying lengths of time. There is a reason for this:

Flying on the West Coast

I have spent the last two weeks on the West Coast travelling from Loch Lomond to Lochaber. I have paddled with many different people and been fortunate enough to have had the opportunity to have a go at some of the steepest creeks in the area.

The Brave Heart Burn

The more time I spend exploring Scotland the more time I want to spend here. I cannot rate it highly enough and I think it is hugely under rated. The local paddlers are very friendly and are some of Britain’s best white water kayakers.

About three hours into a hike in along way from the A82

Fort William is the area most paddlers aim for as a base for a Scottish kayaking trip. It is easy to see why. The Nevis River that flows into Fort William is my favourite river I have ever paddled and that says a lot. However you do not need to venture far from the Fort to be paddling rivers that very rarely get kayaked.

Gleann a Chaolais Burn

The effort is definitely worth the reward. I have found myself in many amazing places. It is worth taking some time to have a look around and appreciate how old and remote the Highlands are.

Scottish kayaking is hard on the paddler and on kit. Especially when exploring rivers that do not have put on’s and take outs that can be driven to. These places often miles from the nearest road require equipment that is 100% reliable. Peak UK gear is my equipment of choice and always will be.

Taking a minute to breathe high up in the Highlands

Time to get back out there……

Report by Matty Nicholas

Photos by Matty Nicholas, Adam Ramadan, Chris Nias and Jack Gibbs