Scottish Highland Dream

During the course of the day, you arrive at Kinlochleven in the heart of the Scottish Highlands. Kinlochleven is situated in a dreamy highland glen on the eastern edge of Loch Leven. If travelling by public transport you could take the train to Fort William and the local bus or taxi to Kinlochleven.

Today you can do a short loop walk around Mamore Lodge. You will first pass by the mighty Grey Mare’s Tail waterfall. After a climb, you can then decide to follow the short route or detour to Loch Eilde Mor before heading back. You will then descend back into Fort William along the West Highland Way.

Today you take the public bus a short journey along the shores of Loch Leven to Ballachulish where you walk shall begin. Your walk begins through the pretty highland village, soon you cross an ancient bridge and turn walking upwards. Soon you shall reach the open countryside along an easy to follow the path as you ascend the through the valley looking across to the river Laroch and Gleann an Fhoidh. You shall be surrounded with peaks up 900m. The walk ends at a Cairn where you can descend to the river for a picnic before returning back the same way you ascended. Now you shall have wonderful views of Loch Leven and maybe the mighty Ben Nevis Mountain in the distance.

Today you have the chance to walk the last section of the famous West Highland Way walking trail. Ascending out of Kinlochleven you shall soon reach an altitude of a few hundred metres. The route follows an old Military road famous in the Scottish Highlands, these were trails built by General Wade in the 1700’s as a means of getting Government forces to parts of Scotland quickly during the Jacobite risings.  They were indeed only the first roads to be built after the Roman’s.  Soon the trail descends to the Nevis Valley and onto Fort William where you shall stay for a further four nights.

a) Cowhill 7 miles 11km, up 455m, 3-4 hours walking time.

Cow Hill is the summit that blocks the view of Ben Nevis from Fort William and is a lovely circular circuit. Back in the day, crofters use to graze their cattle on the slopes. In recent years to help with conservation work a herd have been reintroduced to the slopes. There are a few steep sections but well worth the climb for the view of Fort William and the surrounding area.

 b) Nevis Glen 7.8 miles 12.6 km, up 50m, 3-3.5 hours walking time. Option to increase by 5.5 miles 8.8km to the Steall Falls.

This is a lovely walk around the Nevis Glen, the walk starts from the base of Ben Nevis and follows the Nevis water upstream on a well-marked path. You have a few streams to cross as you follow the Nevis water upstream. At the Achriabhach (bridge over the river), you can return on the west side of the river or take the optional extension up the small road and onto a pathway to visit the Steall Falls, this is wear water rushes down from Ben Nevis. You now return on a wide forest path back to Fort William.

c) Ben Nevis 10.2 miles 16.3km, up 1350m, 8-9 hours walking time.

This is the big one and should only be attempted if you are experienced in walking and have good walking clothing. This is a long day for most walkers, sometimes as long as 9 hours so we suggest leaving early in the morning. Weather can be unpredictable and can change quickly so always be prepared and turn around if conditions worsen. However, you shall be rewarded with magnificent views and a wonderful sense of achievement.

d) Neptunes staircase 6.2- 8 miles 10-12.8km, up 50m, 3 hours walking time.

This is a loop walk from Fort William to take you to the famous Neptunes Staircase; a staircase lock comprising of eight locks on the Caledonian Canal. You can walk along the Great Glen Way all the way or shorten the route by walking through the village. A nice route which is pretty flat. You can then spend time looking around or walk further up the canal before returning to Fort William.

e) Days rest and take the Steam Train from Fort William to Mallaig (not included in price of holiday)

Not included in your tour cost, but a great option when staying in the area. Tickets must be purchased in advance which can be done online at – West Coast Railways. This journey is well known from the Harry Potter movies and is a very scenic and worthwhile experience.

Depart after breakfast.