Exploring Free Hiking Shelters: The Story of Remote Bothies
This is a hotel that you can't book, but maybe when you get there you'll find someone, or maybe you won't.Most importantly, it is a completely free hotel.
What Are Bothies?
Picture trekking through the serene, untouched landscapes of Britain and coming across a simple yet inviting shelter hidden among the wilderness. These structures, known as bothies, are free-to-use shelters scattered across the secluded areas of Northern England, Wales, and Scotland. Managed by a charitable organization, the Hikers’ Shelter Alliance (HSA), bothies are a haven for adventurers seeking a quiet escape in nature.
How Do Bothies Operate?
Bothies are not your typical accommodations—you can’t book them or guarantee privacy. It’s first-come, first-served, and there’s no way to know who might be sharing the space. Groups of fewer than six are encouraged, and all visitors must adhere to the Hiker’s Code, which emphasizes leaving no trace and protecting the natural surroundings.
Locating These Hidden Shelters
While the grid references for these bothies are available online, finding them often requires a detailed map and a lot of patience. These shelters are tucked away in some of Britain’s most untouched areas, where mobile signals are rare.
A Glimpse Into Bothy History
Many of these shelters were once homes or workspaces for shepherds, miners, and farmers. When remote living declined during the 20th century, these buildings were abandoned. In the mid-1900s, hikers started using them for shelter, and the HSA stepped in to restore and maintain these historical sites for future adventurers.
Expect Basic, Not Luxury
Bothies are minimalist. They usually lack running water, electricity, and toilets. Some come with a spade for digging a temporary latrine far from the building. Many offer stoves, though you’ll need to bring your own fuel and gear for cooking and sleeping. Think of bothies as “stone tents”—basic but functional.
Why Bothies Are Unique
The charm of bothies lies in their unpredictability. You might find yourself alone, basking in solitude, or surrounded by fellow hikers eager to share stories. This sense of community, combined with the adventure of seeking out these remote shelters, makes bothying an unforgettable experience.
My Adventure to a Hidden Bothy
While hiking in the secluded valleys of Wales, I searched for the Trefynnydd bothy, hidden deep within a forested area. After hours of navigating uneven trails and forestry tracks, I finally spotted its weathered stone walls. Once a miner’s humble dwelling, the shelter now provides refuge for hikers. Inside, I met two cyclists exploring nearby trails. That evening, we shared stories by a crackling fire, creating memories to last a lifetime.
How Bothies Are Maintained
The upkeep of these remote shelters is no small task. Volunteers are the backbone of the HSA, dedicating their time to repair roofs, fix doors, and even transport waste from sites with compost toilets. Each bothy has two maintenance leaders who ensure the shelters remain in good condition for future visitors.
Tips for Using Bothies
- Pack wisely: Bring camping gear, food, and water.
- Learn camping basics: Comfort depends on your skills.
- Carry a tent: If the bothy is full, you’ll need an alternative.
Shelters Worldwide
While Britain’s bothy system is unique, other countries offer similar experiences:
- New Zealand: More than 950 huts managed by the Department of Conservation.
- United States: Shelters in areas like the Appalachian Mountains provide accommodation for hikers.
- Alps in Europe: Alpine clubs maintain over 1,300 mountain huts.
- Patagonia: Refugios in Argentina provide food and lodging for a fee.
The Future of Bothies
As these shelters grow in popularity, the HSA continues to adapt. Compost toilets are being added, and new bothies are under development. While some worry about misuse, the HSA remains dedicated to preserving these shelters as places of refuge and community.
Bothies offer a rare chance to reconnect with nature and people in a simple, authentic way. If you’re planning your next outdoor adventure, consider seeking out one of these hidden gems. You might leave with not just memories but new stories to share.
0 Comments