McCooks Bothy, also known as Ben Alder Cottage, is often cited as one of Scotland’s most haunted bothies. Folklore speaks of strange noises, slamming doors and even the ghost of the stalker who once lived there. Over the years, these stories have drawn walkers and climbers to the shores of Loch Ericht, curious to spend a night…
The man behind the legend was Joseph McCook, a Stalker on the Estate in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. McCook was remembered as a resilient and skilled stalker, guiding guests through the hills until the family left the cottage in the 1920s. Far from the tragic figure of folklore, he lived a long life and died peacefully in Newtonmore at the age of 85.
Today, the stories continue, adding mystery to a place already steeped in history.
To honour that heritage, we have carefully renovated and preserved the cottage, retaining its traditional character while making it safe and welcoming for visitors.
The Bothy is a simple yet comfortable retreat, thoughtfully equipped for an off-grid luxury bothy stay.
Amenities include a log-fired cooking stove with logs provided and full cookware for self-catering, along with privacy providing bunk beds pods, comfortable sofas, and fresh, luxury linen complete with rechargeable electric blankets.
The cooking facilities also feature a mini fridge and a sink with running water.
McCooks Bothy also features a private outhouse with a composting toilet and wash stand.
Most visitors approach from Dalwhinnie, following the long, mostly level estate track along the loch. Many choose to cycle the track and walk the final stretch, which keeps the journey enjoyable and leaves time to settle in before dusk.
Guests can also access the Bothy by canoe on Loch Ericht or by horse through the pony tracks.
McCook’s Bothy is a remote, self-supported stay. Please ensure you’re experienced in long-distance hill walks and confident navigating on rough tracks and stalkers’ paths in changeable Highland weather. Phone signal is limited and approaches typically take several hours.
You should be comfortable planning and completing the route in daylight, carrying your own supplies, using a wood-fired cooking stove, and managing a composting toilet.
What you’ll need: a map and compass (and the skills to use them), a charged GPS/phone, warm waterproof layers, sturdy boots and sufficient food and water. In winter or poor conditions, winter skills and equipment are essential.
Please note: The estate does not provide transport or guiding. Leave your route and return time with someone you trust, and be aware that assistance or rescue can be delayed due to the location.
