My Scotland: Make the most of the great outdoors with Highlander Katie O'Donnell

Katie O'Donnell is based in Inverness. Image: Katie O'Donnell

In order to push through the disappointing spring weather, you might already be planning some summer adventures.

Based in Inverness, Katie O’Donnell is a hiker who loves getting out into the great outdoors and enjoying nature.

We asked for her top three spots to visit so you can add them to your list for when the sunny days finally make an appearance.

Glen Affric Youth Hostel

Come prepared for the midges. Image: Katie O’Donnell

If you really want to ‘get away from it all’, there’s nowhere better to stay in Scotland. This remote hostel has no mobile phone signal or Wi-Fi and can only be reached on foot or by bike.

The accommodation is basic and you have to bring in everything you’ll need (and take it back out again!) but it’s a magical experience spending the evening around the fire with a handful of interesting strangers – and 10,000 midges.

There are several routes in but the best is a 14km hike through the beautiful Glen Affric. Over the last 30 years, over two million native trees have been planted here in an effort to restore the natural biodiversity lost over decades of poor land management. A journey to Glen Affric Youth Hostel is both a glimpse into the past and the future of what the Scottish Highlands could be like if we look after it more responsibly.

The Greenock Cut

You could run, walk or jog this route. Image: Katie O’Donnell

Only 40 minutes from Glasgow and easily accessible by public transport, the Greenock Cut is a bit of a hidden gem. It’s well-known among locals but so much quieter than the usual haunts of city day-trippers.

The views are incredible, on a sunny day you can see from Arran to the Arrochar Alps and even the urban sprawl of Greater Glasgow. The loop is 11km, the path is wide, clear and not too steep. I would recommend starting at Overton (parking available and close to Drumfrochar station) and going clockwise as the climb is more gradual and you save the best views for last.

Pittenweem Tidal Pool

Get your dry robe ready. Image: Katie O’Donnell

Fife’s ‘infinity pool’ is the ideal introduction to outdoor swimming: stunning views, seabirds for company and easy access via well-maintained steps with plenty of dry, sheltered space to leave your clothes.

The surrounding wall keeps you mostly shielded from the waves and current, and the pool is deep enough for a proper swim but the depth increases gradually (no sudden drop-off!) so it’s perfect for paddling too.

There are countless swim spots around the East Neuk of Fife but this one is my favourite because you can warm up afterwards with a hot chocolate from the Pittenweem Chocolate Company café nearby.

For more travel tips, follow Katie at @_katie.outdoors on Instagram.