The West Highland Way - Hiking
Country
Scotland
Region
Highlands
Theme
Iconic Journeys
7
Days
6
Nights
Accommodation
3*
An alternative crossing of Scotland's most storied long-distance trail.
This is the West Highland Way – one of Scotland’s Great Trails – carefully reimagined. A classic Scottish long-distance walk, yes, but delivered with a few well-judged shortcuts that keep the experience excellent rather than exhausting. From the gentle shores of Loch Lomond to the wild sweep of Rannoch Moor and the final stride into Fort William, we shape each day for the best walking, but crucially, there’s enough time to see, feel and taste the real Scotland. Our handpicked accommodation is characterful and welcoming, and each day builds naturally towards the journey’s end in Fort William.
Highlights
- A symbolic start on the West Highland Way combined with the most scenic sections of the route
- Conic Hill ascent with panoramic views across Loch Lomond’s islands
- Entering the true Highlands beneath the Munros of Ben Lui and Beinn Dorain
- The vast solitude of Rannoch Moor and the drama of Glencoe
- The Devil’s Staircase climb and the final march into Fort William
- Handpicked hotels that reward the walking day with warmth and comfort
Handpicked Accommodation
Nevis Bank Inn, Fort William
A smart, modern inn close to the river and within easy reach of the West Highland Way finish point.
Why we chose it
A relaxed and celebratory final night, close enough to stroll to the statue and toast the achievement properly.
The Glencoe Inn, Glencoe
The name says it all! A characterful inn in one of Scotland’s most dramatic valleys, combining contemporary comfort with a strong sense of place.
Why we chose it
Few locations capture Highland drama like Glencoe. This is a night where scenery does the storytelling.
Muthu Ben Doran Hotel, Crianlarich
Set beneath the slopes of Beinn Dorain, this traditional Highland hotel feels properly rooted in the landscape, with mountain views and a welcoming lounge for tired legs.
Why we chose it
Positioned at a natural crossroads of the Highlands, it allows us to shape the route for maximum scenic reward.
The Winnock Hotel, Drymen
A historic coaching inn at the gateway to Loch Lomond and The Trossachs. Timber beams, crackling fires and a genuine village atmosphere create a relaxed Highland welcome.
Why we chose it
Drymen sits perfectly for accessing the most rewarding early sections of the West Highland Way, particularly Conic Hill and the eastern lochshore.
Itinerary
Day 1 – Arrival in Stirling and Transfer to Loch Lomond
The day begins with a transfer west towards Loch Lomond. As the lowland scenery gives way to wooded hills and open water you start to get a feel of the Scottish landscape. This afternoon offers the chance to stretch your legs along the lochshore or simply settle into the rhythm of Highland hospitality. Tomorrow, the walking on the West Highland Way begins in earnest.
Day 2 – Conic Hill and the Eastern Shores of Loch Lomond
For those keen to begin at the official trailhead, a short transfer takes you to Milngavie – the official start of the West Highland Way – before walking north to Drymen. Alternatively, we focus on one of the most iconic stretches of the entire route. Starting near Drymen, climb Conic Hill as the land falls away behind you, and Loch Lomond opens out in a scatter of islands and silver water. The descent towards Rowardennan is every bit as rewarding. A private transfer returns you to your hotel for a well-earned evening by the fire.
Day 3 – Into the Highlands
After breakfast, a private transfer bypasses the most rugged lochside section and places you directly at the threshold of the Highlands. From Tyndrum or Crianlarich, the route follows an old military road north, framed by wide skies and the hulking presence of the Munros. Ben Lui rises to the west and Loch Tulla glimmers nearby. Your walk ends near Inveroran or Bridge of Orchy. An evening back in Crianlarich awaits.
Day 4 – Dramatic Glencoe
Today features the most remote and arguably most breathtaking section of the West Highland Way. A short transfer returns you to the trail before the landscape opens fully onto Rannoch Moor. The views of Buachaille Etive Mòr, the iconic mountain guarding the entrance to Glencoe, are unforgettable. From Kingshouse, your private transfer will take you through the dramatic Glencoe valley to your accommodation for the night.
Day 5 – The Devil’s Staircase and descent to Kinlochleven
Enjoy a hearty breakfast before a short private transfer takes you back to the Kingshouse Hotel. Today’s hike involves climbing the famous Devil’s Staircase, a challenging but manageable ascent that rewards you with incredible panoramic views. From the high point, the path descends into Kinlochleven, once an industrial village and now a quiet walkers’ haven. The shorter distance allows time to unwind this afternoon, either lingering in the village or returning to Glencoe for a restful evening.
Day 6 – A final push to Fort Wiliam
Take a private transfer back to Kinlochleven. The final stage of the West Highland Way traverses the ancient military road, Lairig Mòr, through quiet glens and forestry. As Fort William approaches, the path descends gently to the official finish line. A photograph with the weary walker statue marks the completion of your ‘West Highland Way’. Tonight, celebrate properly, with good food, raised glasses, and the satisfaction of many a mile in your legs.
Day 7 – Farewells and onward travel
After a final Scottish breakfast, your private transfer returns you to Stirling. The scenery rolls by with a new familiarity now that you have crossed it on foot. Arrival in Stirling brings the journey to a close.
Itinerary Designer
We’ve shaped ‘our’ West Highland Way magic to be all about the magic of this part of Scotland.
Harvey
Featured Experience
Crossing Rannoch Moor
With the weather and light constantly shifting, crossing Rannoch Moor, one of the last great wildernesses in Britain, is a walk to a remember.