Average rating Walk the West Highland Way

Scotland’s most popular walking trail, the West Highland Way passes through what is arguably Britain’s most spectacular landscape. The 95 mile route from Milngavie to Fort William is ideal for self-guided walking, with itineraries tailored to suit any requirements.

Loch Lomond, the Trossochs, Rannoch Moor - many of Scotland’s most famous and enigmatic natural wonders can be found along the West Highland Way. The route encompasses a huge array of landscapes - from lowland moors and dense forests to mighty mountains with sheers cliff faces - that are home to an abundance of plant and animal life. Starting at Milngavie on the northern outskirts of Glasgow, the West Highland Way weaves northwards, past the shores of Loch Lomond, through Strathfillan and across Rannoch Moor before reaching Glencoe and climbing the Devil’s Staircase. The Way ends in the bustling town of Fort William, the self-proclaimed “Outdoor Capital of the UK”, from which walkers can tackle Ben Nevis, Britain’s highest mountain.

A self-guided West Highland Way walk gives you the opportunity to explore this spectacular route under your own steam. Trips can last anything between four to nine days, depending on which sections of the trail you want to see and how quickly you want to walk. You’ll be supplied with a detailed map and comprehensive guidebook, and there are also plenty of historic landmarks en route where you can learn more about the region’s fascinating history (don’t forget to stop for a pint at the famous Drovers Inn or try a wee dram at Glengoyne Distillery, Scotland’s most beautiful!). Then at the end of the day you can relax and enjoy some fine dining in the hand-picked bed and breakfasts, country inns and guesthouses dotted along the trail – your bags will be waiting for you when you arrive.

The West Highland Way is a classic trail but can be tough-going in places, with rugged terrain and varied weather. You can stretch your trip out to last anything up to nine days – we think seven or eight is optimal - but if you’re intending to do the whole trail you’ll still be looking at around 10 miles (five hours) per day, so a decent level of physical fitness is essential. As long as you’re in pretty good shape you’re bound to enjoy the West Highland Way, rightly considered one of Britain’s most spectacular long-distance paths. A self-guided walk gives you the freedom to experience the landscape at your own pace, allowing you time to indulge hobbies besides walking, like bird-watching and photography. You’ll meet fellow walkers from all over the world, enjoy some fantastic local cuisine and experience first-hand the legendary hospitality of the west coast. All this and the unique feeling of accomplishment that comes from completing a world-renowned passage!

Getting there

The walk starts in Milngraive which can be reached by air (Glasgow or Prestwick airport) by rail (Glasgow) or by car. The walk ends in Fort William (return transport not included) from where there is a Citylink bus (3 per day) or a First Scotrail train service (2-3 daily).

Price includes

B&B accommodation as close as possible to the trail (en-suite wherever possible), baggage transfer, transfers to your accommodation if necessary, detailed map, guidebook and information pack are all included. Travel insurance, transport to the start or from the finish of the walk, lunches, dinners, snacks, drinks and walking equipment are not included.

Price details

Prices are per person sharing and depend on the itinerary chosen.

Comfort level

Reasonably comfortable (Inns, B&Bs, luxury camping etc.)

Experience required

A reasonable level of fitness and interest is all that is needed

Travellers should bring

The way is fully waymarked and easy to follow, you will need a reasonable level of fitness and standard walking kit including walking shoes or boots, waterproof clothes and a daypack.