Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
WHERE TO WALK
West Highland Way
This classic hike - the country's most popular long-distance path - stretches for 96 miles
through some of Scotland's most spectacular scenery, from Milngavie (mull-guy), on the
northwestern fringes of Glasgow, to Fort William.
The route begins in the Lowlands but the greater part of the trail is among the mountains,
lochs and fast-flowing rivers of the western Highlands. After following the eastern shore of
Loch Lomond and passing Crianlarich and Tyndrum, the route crosses the vast wilderness
of Rannoch Moor and reaches Fort William via Glen Nevis, in the shadow of Britain's
highest peak, Ben Nevis.
The path is easy to follow, making use of old drovers roads (along which Highland cattle
were once driven to Lowland markets), an old military road (built by troops to help subdue
the Highlands in the 18th century) and disused railway lines.
Best done from south to north, the walk takes about six or seven days. Many people
round it off with an ascent of Ben Nevis. You need to be properly equipped with good
boots, waterproofs, maps, a compass, and food and drink for the northern part of the walk.
Midge repellent is also essential.
It's possible to do just a day's hike along part of the trail. For example, the Loch Lomond
Water Bus allows you to walk the section from Rowardennan to Inversnaid, returning to
your starting point by boat.
The West Highland Way Official Guide
by Bob Aitken and Roger Smith is the most
comprehensive guidebook, while the Harveys map
West Highland Way
shows the entire
route in a single waterproof map sheet.
Accommodation shouldn't be too difficult to find, though between Bridge of Orchy and
Kinlochleven it's limited. At peak times (May, July and August), book accommodation in
advance. There are some youth hostels and bunkhouses on or near the path, and it's pos-
sible to camp in some parts. A list of accommodation is available from tourist offices.
For more information check out the website
www.west-highland-way.co.uk
.
TOP 10 SHORT WALKS
Quiraing
(
Click here
; Isle of Skye) One to two hours; bizarre rock pinnacles.
