Launching a Modern Web App for Hillwalkers: A Beginner’s Journey with Tech Stack Insights
Embarking on a new side project can be both exciting and daunting, especially when looking to expand your development skills. If you’re a burgeoning developer aiming to create a user-friendly platform for hillwalkers—specifically those who are passionate about Scotland’s legendary Munros—this blog post is tailored for you.
Understanding the Context
You’ve gained valuable experience in web development through tools like Squarespace, Webflow, and basic JavaScript. While comfortable with vanilla HTML and CSS, you’re eager to challenge yourself further by building a more sophisticated web application—one that combines your love for hillwalking with modern tech.
The Inspiration
Scotland’s Munro Bagging culture involves conquering over 280 peaks exceeding 3,000 feet. Although some existing websites offer tracking and informational resources, many feel outdated or lack a polished user experience. Your goal is to craft a sleek, single-page application (SPA) that provides not just information but also social features, enabling users to compare their progress and plan trips collaboratively.
Proposed Tech Stack
You’re considering a tech stack that balances modern functionality with scalability:
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Frontend: Next.js coupled with Tailwind CSS. This combo is excellent for building SEO-friendly, performant SPAs with rapid development and a clean, responsive design.
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Mapping Library: Mapbox GL. Ideal for interactive, customizable maps, it will help plot Munro locations and user routes seamlessly.
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Backend & Authentication: Supabase. As an all-in-one backend solution, it offers authentication, databases, and serverless functions, streamlining the development process.
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Hosting & Deployment: Vercel. Perfectly suited for Next.js applications, offering fast deployment and scalable hosting.
Assessing Your Approach
Your choice of technologies aligns well with industry standards for modern web apps. Next.js’s server-side rendering and static generation capabilities will serve SEO needs, especially when indexing individual Munro detail pages. Mapbox GL provides rich mapping features essential for a geographic-based app, and Supabase’s backend services simplify data management and user authentication.
While this stack represents a significant step up from your previous experience, it’s a proven combination for building professional-grade apps. Be prepared to learn more about how these tools interact, and don’t hesitate to leverage the extensive documentation and community support available.
Additional Tips
- Start by building a minimal viable product (MVP)—perhaps just static pages with basic map integration
