This is Team WHW. We're four people embarking on a 96-mile walk, and only one of us knows all the others. Should be fun - right? Well, we'll soon find out. We've set up this blog to introduce ourselves, and to share some of our special moments along the route.

West Highland Way, here we come!

How it all started...

It all started with a throwaway comment made by our Norwegian compadré, Gry, to Sharon, about how she fancied doing the West Highland Way. Sharon, the 'only person from the west of Scotland never to have walked the West Highland Way' (apart from Julie). Sharon mentioned it to sometime walking companion, Sam, and we were all set. Another throwaway comment, this time from Sharon, on a family WhatsApp group, and Julie was in! It all seemed so far away when we started planning back in January / February. Then, all of a sudden it was June, and we were all headed for Milngavie!

An Inspiration!

A big shout out to Sam (Heughan), aka Jamie Fraser from TV's Outlander. A few years ago, Sam decided to walk the West Highland Way. Much more adventurous than us, he planned to do it in 5 days (we're taking a week) AND to camp. After getting soaked, Sam sensibly decided to ditch the tent. He and wrote a book about his experience. If you're thinking of walking the WHW and haven't read Waypoints, it's hugely enjoyable and should give you a few pointers about the route. Sam - you're an inspiration!

About us

Here's a little bit about us all:

Gry

I'm from Bodø in northern Norway, but live in Bergen with my Scottish partner and son. I studied naval architecture at Glasgow Uni, which is where I met Sharon. I love spending time outdoors walking Archie, our Jack Russell, or hiking in the mountains around Bergen. I also sail and play volleyball. When not outside, I enjoy a good book and a nice glass of wine.

Julie

Hi, my name's Julie. I turned 40 this year and have always enjoyed the Scottish outdoors. The WHW was a no-brainer for me when asked, especially when I didn't have to put in any effort to book anything as it was all taken care of by my mum's cousin. I have a 2.5 year old and have lost myself and body - so here's to the future and what better way to begin than the legendary WHW!

Sam

After walking the WHW 25 years ago I'm back for more! I'm a keen walker, but with zero mountains in Oxfordshire it's not the best practice... Other interests include improving the public rights of way network in the UK (especially footpaths), helping out with the Woodland Trust, and trying to keep up with teenage slang (I have a 15 year old daughter!)

Sharon

I'm the one who knows everyone in the group – but how well? We'll see. I know Gry from way back, and I taught Sam's daughter and go walking with him. Julie and I are actually related, though we're not sure what that relationship is (my cousin's daughter?). Free cake for anyone who can tell us. I'm a freelance writer, tutor and editor, living in Oxford.