Great Glen Way: 7-Day Challenging Hike

DAY 1: Arrival in Fort William

From your point of arrival, use the public transport information we provide to make the journey to Fort William.

DAY 2: Fort William to Spean Bridge

Distance 23km • Approximate Walking Time 5 - 7 hrs • Ascent (↑) 60m

From Fort William, follow the shoreline as far as the Caledonian Canal – the coast-to-coast canal through Scotland. Look out for Neptune’s Steps – a series of canal locks – before continuing next to the canal as far as Gairlochy. At this point, you follow a quiet country road into the small town of Spean Bridge.

DAY 3: Spean Bridge to Laggan

25km/29km • 6 - 9 hrs • (↑) 100m/150m

Return along the quiet country road from Spean Bridge to the Caledonian canal at Gairlochy. From there, quiet forest tracks lead you close to the shore of Loch Lochy as far as Laggan/Invergarry. A short detour en-route will afford you the chance to visit the Clan Cameron Museum where you can learn about the fascinating history of the clan.

DAY 4: Laggan/Invergarry to
Invermoriston

29km/25km • 6 - 9 hrs • (↑) 300-890m

The trail now meets the second of the three lakes on the Great Glen Way – Loch Oichy.

The dilapidated remains of an unsuccessful attempt to link Inverness and Fort William by train are clearly visible and the old railway line serves as an excellent walking trail. Climbing out of Fort Augustus, you soon catch your first glimpse of Loch Ness. Have your camera ready – if you manage to capture a picture of the Loch Ness Monster you could make yourself a lot of money!

DAY 5: Invermoriston to Drumnadrochit

High Route: 22km • 6 - 8 hours • (↑) 740m
Low Route: 24km • 6 - 8 hours • (↑) 495m

Stunning views over Loch Ness are your reward today for some steep climbs along forest tracks on the north-side of the lake. If you still have enough energy, we recommend a 4km detour to Urquhart Castle. Or perhaps a pint of the local brew sounds more appealing?

DAY 6: Drumnadrochit to Inverness

31km • 7 - 9 hours • (↑) 480m

The last day and, in terms of length, also the most challenging. Good thing your legs will be perfectly toned after the last few days of hiking! Good variety between forest paths and open moorland on this hike – a nice way to finish your Great Glen experience.

DAY 7: Departure from Inverness

There are regular bus and train services from Inverness to Edinburgh and onwards to Glasgow. Full details provided upon booking.