It was early in the season and one or two hosteling options were not so great this time around but I suspect other venues open as the season progresses. The highland walks were fantastic!
The John Muir Trail is a delightful walk across Scotland. Walkers enjoy very contrasting landscapes, towns and weather. From the views, the engineering in the lock systems on the canals, to the art, and the architecture the walk is a very pleasant experience. There is a fair amount of hard surface walking so come prepared with well cushioned shoes for those days.
Excellent daily walking, with options for the degree of challenge. The barge is really accommodating, comfortable, and well organized (salon and dining area were perfect, staterooms also very pleasant and fully equipped and clean), and the crew (chef, captain, guide, bosun) was knowledgeable and helpful and a lot of fun. We rented the full barge as a group of cousins mostly in our latter 60s and earlier 70s, and we all considered it a great experience, for being outdoors, seeing Scotland coast to coast, getting exercise, and spending time together, with everything thoughtfully arranged by the company and flawlessly implemented. We couldn't recommend it more highly. After months of expectation, all expectation were exceeded.