West Highland Way

The West Highland Way, Scotland's premier long-distance hiking trail, spans 154 kilometers from the outskirts of Glasgow to Fort William near Ben Nevis. Along this renowned route, you'll encounter famous lochs, rugged moors, and mist-shrouded mountain vistas. Take a leisurely break at Loch Lomond to enjoy breathtaking views and relaxation.

While the West Highland Way offers awe-inspiring natural beauty, it can also pose challenges due to the ever-changing weather conditions. Nevertheless, it leaves a lasting love for Scotland and its magnificent landscapes.

This ancient long-distance trail beckons you into the untamed world of the Scottish Highlands. In the past, this region was a desolate land, sparsely populated by merchants and shepherds. Battles unfolded here, and it served as a hideaway for robbers and gangs of thieves.

Today, this area remains largely untouched and offers incredible diversity. The paths meander along the tranquil shores of Loch Lomond, only to reveal sweeping views of towering peaks a few kilometres further. The West Highland Way has earned its status as one of Europe's most popular hiking routes, attracting adventurers from around the globe. Explore this extraordinary journey and immerse yourself in Scotland's untamed beauty.

Details about walking holidays on Scotland's West Highland Way

From Milngavie, the first attraction of the tour is the Glengoyne whiskey distillery. On a guided tour followed by a tasting, you will learn a lot about this typical local speciality. Stop off in Drymen in one of the rustic pubs - do you dare to try a portion of the Scottish national dish haggis? With the stage to Loch Lomond, the area becomes increasingly lonely and the hikes even more pristine.

On day 4 you walk in the footsteps of the bandit Rob Roy, Scotland's Robin Hood. The natural scenery at Rannoch Moor, Loch Tulla and the "Devil's Staircase" will amaze you. You will hardly be able to miss the attraction of the last stage to Fort Williams: Ben Nevis - the highest mountain in Great Britain.

The highlights of the West Highland Way walking holiday at a glance:

• Loch Lomond: The largest, most beautiful and most romantic loch in Britain? Quite possible! If the weather is good, you can not only enjoy the view of the loch but even take a plunge into the cool water.

• Ben Nevis: 1,345 metres high and around 400 million years old - this mountain exudes that certain something. The Ben" is particularly popular with hikers and mountaineers, but due to the unstable weather conditions, among other things, you should pay it the respect it deserves.

• Fort William: Considered the "Outdoor capital of Scotland". Adventurers get their money's worth here. How about quad biking, white water rafting, caving or animal safaris?

• Unspoilt nature: This corner of Scotland is particularly beautiful, but also wild, barren and rugged. Although the West Highland Way attracts visitors from all over the world, you are on your own in many places.

Interesting facts about hiking along the West Highland Way

The route is mostly flat and climbs are the exception, but the daily stages are up to 24 kilometres long. The weather here is also unpredictable and can quickly change from sunny to windy and wet. You can relax in cosy accommodation, where you will be served typical local breakfasts.

This tour has been graded as Challenging. Find out more about our walking holiday difficulty levels.