Great Glen Way: 9-Day Gentle 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 Gairlochy

Distance 17km • Approximate Walking Time 4 - 6 hrs • Ascent (↑) 40m

From Fort William, follow the shoreline as far as the Caledonian Canal – the coast-to-coast canal through Scotland. The path continues next to the canal as far as Gairlochy. Look out for Neptune’s Steps – a series of canal locks – en route.

DAY 3: Gairlochy to Laggan/Invergarry

19km/23km • 4 - 7 hours • (↑) 85m/135m

Today’s hike follows forest tracks close to the shore of Loch Lochy as far as Laggan/Invergarry. A short detour 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 Fort Augustus

17km/13km • 4 - 6 hours • (↑) 10m/160m

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 on today’s route and the old railway line serves as an excellent walking trail.

DAY 5: Fort Augustus to Invermoriston

High Route: 12km • 4 - 5 hours • (↑) 480m
Low Route: 15km • 4 - 5 hours • (↑) 120m

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 6: Alltsigh to Drumnadrochit

18km • 4 - 6 hours • (↑) 380m

Transfer from Invermoriston to Alltsigh in the morning. A steep climb along a forest track soon reveals stunning views over Loch Ness. If you still have enough energy as you approach Drumnadrochit, we recommend a 4km detour to the ruins of Urquhart Castle. Or perhaps a pint of the local brew sounds more appealing?

DAY 7: Blackfold to Drumnadrochit

17km • 4 - 6 hours • (↑) 120m

This morning, you will be transferred to a remote location called Blackfold from where you will hike back to the village of Drumnadrochit. Hiking the Great Glen Way in reverse, there is a lovely variety between open moorland and forest paths.

DAY 8: Blackfold to Inverness

14km • 4 - 6 hrs • (↑) 50m

Transfer from Drumnadrochit to Blackfold in the morning. From here, a peaceful descent along forest paths will lead you all the way down into Inverness. As you reach the outskirts of the city, you will cross over the Caledonian Canal one last time. A gentle hike meaning you’ll have plenty of energy left to explore the attractions of Inverness.

DAY 9: Departure from Inverness

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