Finding Friendship and Adventure: My First Bothy Stay Experience
- Stef Harding
- Jun 18
- 3 min read
When I first heard about bothies, I was intrigued but hesitant. The idea of staying overnight in a simple shelter deep in the wilderness sounded exciting yet daunting, always wanted to give it ago but want to share the experience with someone. This year, my outdoor journey took a new turn when I finally experienced my first bothy stay. It wasn’t just about the adventure; it was about the connection and friendship that made the experience unforgettable.
How It All Began: Meeting Laura and the Power of Community
Back in April, I travelled three hours to Yorkshire to celebrate the 90th anniversary of trig points at Whernside. The walk was organised by Emily, an inspiring outdoor leader and founder of a women's hiking community based in the Peaks. Emily and I completed our Mountain Leader training together last year, so joining her event felt like a natural step in my outdoor journey.
A few weeks ago, I joined a community hike in the Lakes, organised in partnership with Dare2b and Grace Adventures. There, I spotted Laura in the car park, heading out on the same walk. We connected over Instagram as fellow solo van lifers, sharing stories of life on the road and love for the outdoors. Laura mentioned another community hike nearby, just 40 minutes from my home, partnered with Blacks and Crag Hopper, with Emily leading again. I jumped at the chance to join.
From Wild Camp Plans to Bothy Stay
After signing up for the hike, I asked Laura if she fancied a wild camp afterwards. The weather forecast showed strong winds, so we decided to change plans and try a bothy stay instead. Bothies had been on my bucket list for a long time, but I never wanted to do it alone. Meeting like-minded people through community hikes creates opportunities to share new experiences safely and joyfully.
What to Expect from a Bothy Stay
For those unfamiliar, a bothy is a basic shelter found in remote areas, usually free to use and maintained by volunteers. They offer refuge from the elements but come with no running water, electricity, or heating. Staying in a bothy means embracing simplicity and nature, often sharing the space with other hikers.
Here’s what I learned from my first bothy stay:
Pack smart: Bring a warm sleeping bag, a sleeping mat, and enough food and water for your stay.
Prepare for the elements: Bothies can be cold and damp, so layering clothes and waterproof gear is essential.
Respect the space: Bothies are shared community resources. Leave no trace, clean up after yourself, and be considerate of others.
Enjoy the company: Bothies often bring together hikers from different backgrounds, creating a unique social experience.
The Bothy Experience: Connection and Friendship in Action
Arriving at the bothy after the hike felt like stepping into a different world. The shelter was small but welcoming, surrounded by rolling hills and open skies. Laura and I settled in, sharing stories and laughter as the wind howled outside. The simplicity of the bothy stripped away distractions, allowing us to focus on the moment and each other’s company.
This experience deepened my appreciation for the connection that outdoor communities foster. It’s not just about the physical challenge or the scenery; it’s about building friendships that encourage you to try new things and feel supported in the wild.
Why Community Matters for Solo Adventurers
Solo travel and hiking can be incredibly rewarding but also isolating or intimidating at times. Being part of a women's hiking community offers a safety net and a source of inspiration. It creates spaces where women can share knowledge, encourage each other, and build lasting bonds.
Community hikes led by passionate leaders like myself provide structure and support, making it easier to step outside your comfort zone. Whether it’s a day hike or an overnight bothy stay, the shared experience strengthens friendships and makes adventures more meaningful.
Embracing New Adventures Together
My first bothy stay was more than just a night in a remote shelter. It was a milestone in my outdoor journey, made possible by the friendship and connection found through community hikes. Sharing this experience with Laura reminded me how important it is to seek out like-minded people who inspire and support you.
If you’ve been thinking about trying something new outdoors, consider joining a community hike or planning a bothy stay with friends. The memories you create and the friendships you build will enrich your adventures far beyond the trail.
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