West Highland Way

The West Highland Way is Scotland's most famous and beloved long-distance trail, a journey that charts a course from the rolling lowlands near Glasgow into the dramatic heart of the Highlands. Established as Scotland's first official long-distance route, it offers a perfect introduction to the country's iconic landscapes: serene lochs, vast and empty moorlands, deep glens, and rugged mountains. The trail follows a logical progression, with the scenery becoming wilder and more spectacular with each northward step.  

What makes the West Highland Way so unique is its accessibility combined with its genuine sense of wilderness. The path is well-waymarked and the stages are manageable for any reasonably fit walker, supported by a network of welcoming villages, pubs, and B&Bs that provide a taste of Highland hospitality. Yet, it delivers truly world-class scenery, particularly as it skirts the shores of Loch Lomond, crosses the epic expanse of Rannoch Moor, and passes by the entrance to Glen Coe. It is a social trail, where camaraderie is built in shared bunkhouses and over a pint at the end of the day, but it also offers moments of profound solitude and connection with Scotland's wild and storied past.  

The West Highland Way is a linear trail running from Milngavie, a suburb of Glasgow, to Fort William in the heart of the Scottish Highlands. The start in Milngavie is easily reached by a short train ride from Glasgow's city center, which has a major international airport (GLA) and excellent rail connections. The terminus in Fort William is also well-serviced by train and bus, with connections back to Glasgow and other parts of the UK. The trail's popularity has given rise to a robust baggage transfer industry, allowing many hikers to walk each day with only a light daypack.

Accommodation must be booked well in advance, as certain locations are famous bottlenecks with very limited capacity.

• Kingshouse Hotel (Glen Coe): An iconic and historic hotel in a spectacular, remote setting at the head of Glen Coe. It is a critical and highly sought-after overnight stop.  

• The Drovers Inn (Inverarnan): One of Scotland's oldest licensed pubs, famous for its eccentric, taxidermy-filled decor and lively atmosphere. It offers a unique and memorable overnight experience.  

• The Oak Tree Inn (Balmaha): A lovely inn located on the shores of Loch Lomond, providing comfortable rooms, excellent food, and a convenient stop after crossing Conic Hill.