One of Scotland‘s most cherished traditions is the right to roam – a freedom enshrined in law which means anyone can roam the glens, vanquish snow-dusted mountains and make camp in the wilderness. It’s just as well, because this country offers some of the most extraordinary hiking in the world, its stirring scenery matched by an abundance of trails and a network of remote shelters (known as bothies – see our round up of the best bothies in Scotland for more). Though the place is rightly famous for its long-distance routes, bear in mind that these can often be broken down into shorter sections or easy day walks: public transport makes it possible to dip in and out of the West Highland Way (buses and trains) and also the Great Glen Way (buses). If you’re heading into the Highlands, always be prepared: even well-trodden paths can require mountaineering kit during the depths of winter, while summer days can also be dreich (damp and dull) and see clouds of pesky midges.