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Hiking the Great Glen Way: Fort William to Inverness

The Great Glen Way is one of Scotland’s best-known long-distance walking trails. It stretches for 79 miles (127 km) from Fort William in the southwest to Inverness in the northeast, following the geological fault line known as the Great Glen. The route links a chain of beautiful lochs and passes through historic towns like Fort Augustus and Drumnadrochit. Walking the Great Glen Way gives you a huge variety of landscapes, big hills, peaceful forest tracks, and sweeping high-level panoramas.

  • United Kingdom

  • Long Distance Paths

    Landscape

  • April - October

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Walking grade

Grade 5

Trips comprise of day walks with plenty of ups and downs, some steep and rough ground will be encountered at times and walks averaging 7 miles with 650m of ascent / descent. Some holidays will cover longer distances on easier paths, others will be shorter walks but have more demanding ascents and terrain.  

Usual daily walks - Distance: 7 miles; Ascent/Descent 650m; Terrain: generally decent paths and tracks with some steeper sections; Walking Time: Day walks. 

The above statistics are generalisations of a day’s keys walk, it does not include distance covered during general sightseeing or daily activity. Detailed information of the daily walking requirements are specified in the specific holidays ‘Daily Itinerary".

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Self-Guided Collection

Expertly planned, flexible walking itineraries, led by you, with accommodation, route plans, and luggage transfers all taken care of by us.

Overview

Holiday Highlights

  • Pass the foot of Ben Nevis, the highest mountain in the UK (1,344 m).
  • Lochside walking beside Loch Lochy, Loch Oich, and the world-famous Loch Ness.
  • High Route viewpoints offering sweeping panoramas over Loch Ness and the surrounding mountains.
  • Historic forts and castles
  • Walking in the Heart of Scotland
  • Hiking Through the Scottish Highlands

First established in April 2002, this long-distance trail goes straight through the heart of Scotland. Stretching from Fort William all the way to Inverness, it showcases the very features that draw so many walkers to the region. the route features a mix of terrain, including canal towpaths, forest tracks, old drove roads, and minor roads. You’ll pass the base of Ben Nevis (1,344 m), the tallest mountain in the UK, and follow rolling forest paths beside the shores of Loch Ness. The route leads you through a varied landscape of farmland, open high moor, and woodland as you approach Inverness, the capital of the Highlands.

Hikers experience a variety of scenic highlights along the route. Starting in Fort William, set beneath Ben Nevis, the trail follows the Caledonian Canal, including the famous Neptune’s Staircase locks. It passes three major lochs, Loch Lochy, Loch Oich, and Loch Ness and historic towns such as Fort Augustus, Invermoriston, and Drumnadrochit, near Urquhart Castle. The route also offers opportunities to spot Highland wildlife, including deer, ospreys, pine martens, and golden eagles. The mixture of history, scenery, and wildlife makes the Great Glen Way a unique introduction to the Scottish Highlands. Long walking days of 20 km or more are common, and hikers should prepare for unpredictable Highland weather.

Along the way, you’ll also come across numerous forts and castles, reminders of Scotland’s history, from the Iron Age through to the Jacobite Rebellion, led by Bonnie Prince Charlie, which ultimately ended with defeat at the Battle of Culloden.

Overall, the Great Glen Way provides a flexible, scenic, and historically rich Highland adventure, suitable for both new and seasoned long-distance walkers.

  • Seven night's accommodation on a bed & breakfast basis
  • Detailed route descriptions (digital and printed at 1st accommodation).
  • 24-hour telephone assistance
  • Routes in digital format (.gpx) for GPS or mobile devices.
  • One piece of luggage per person transferred between accommodations, not exceeding 20kg.
  • Routes in digital format (.gpx) for GPS or mobile devices.
  • Admission fees.
  • Personal expenses such as laundry and phone calls
  • Unscheduled transfers required during the trip.

Holiday Information

Click the button below for a detailed Holiday Information Sheet containing all the particulars about this trip.

NOTE: Itineraries and Holiday Information Sheets can vary by a specific date chosen

View Holiday Information Sheet

Tour Codes

60070

Itinerary & Travel

Itinerary Details

Whilst every effort will be made to adhere to the outlined itinerary and advertised programme, local conditions can change due to weather or other unforeseen circumstances. This may mean that routes and timings need to be amended or the order of days may change, sometimes at short notice.

Your Itinerary

Day 1

Arrival

Accommodation

Make your way to Fort William via train links from Edinburgh and Glasgow. Once you arrive take time to explore the town and its numerous outdoor shops, cafes and bookshops. If you arrive early you can choose to take a boat trip to 'Seal Island' to see the grey seals. 

Day 2

Fort William to Gairlochy

Meals

breakfast

Accommodation

Luggage transfer included today 

  • Time

    4 hours

  • Distance

    10.5 miles

  • Ascent/Descent

    89/63m

Today's walk boasts plenty of opportunity to make stops along the way to visit various popular sites. The first one being one of Scotland's oldest castles built in 1260. Contuing on with you walk you can take a short detour to Corpach sea loch. where you can see the charming lock-keepers’ cottages and the distinctive pepper-pot lighthouse. The trail will lead you onto the Caledonian Canal towpath, which you will follow past Neptune’s Staircase, a remarkable series of eight locks, before reaching the small village of Gairlochy.

Since there is no accommodation directly along the path, your overnight stay will be in Spean Bridge, which is another 3.5-mile walk over hilly terrain. If you prefer to skip this stretch, most guesthouses can arrange a transfer for a small fee if booked in advance 

Day 3

Gairlochy to South Laggan

Meals

Breakfast

Accommodation

Luggage transfer included today

  • Time

    5 hours

  • Distance

    13 miles

  • Ascent/Descent

    290/280m

You will be met with some short steep ascents on todays walk. Your terrain today will consist of tarmac, forest paths and tracks. Two miles into your walk you can deviate slighty from the route to visit Clan Cameron Museum and Cia-aig waterfall before re-joining the Way at Clunes. Please note the museum is only open in the afternoon. For the remainder of the journey you will walk on forest tracks between Clune and Kilfinnan, giving you fantastic views of Loch Lochy and the mountains. 

Due to the popularity of the route and limited accommodation in South Laggan you may be booked into a hotel or guest house in Invergarry. This allows you the option to walk a longer distance today, or alternatively use public transport to reach your accommodation and resume the trail the following day. A private transfer can also be organised. 

Day 4

South Laggan to Fort Augustus

Meals

Breakfast

Accommodation

Luggage transfer included today

  • Time

    5 hours

  • Distance

    13 miles

  • Ascent/Descent

    259/272m

The Great Glen Way now follows the Invergarry Link from South Laggan. This clearly marked path winds through woodland along the western shore of the loch, providing stunning views over the water. The route descends into the picturesque village of Invergarry, where you can take advantage of local amenities before rejoining the main trail at the top of Loch Oich. From there, the path follows the Caledonian Canal towpath on the way to Fort Augustus.

At the heart of the town, the Caledonian Canal features five locks, and several museums showcase its history. There are also excellent restaurants, and if time allows, you might even enjoy a short cruise on Loch Ness.  

Day 5

Fort Augustus to Invermoriston

Meals

Breakfast

Accommodation

luggage transfer included today

  • Time

    3 hours

  • Distance

    8 miles

  • Ascent/Descent

    410/378m

Harder descents will be tackled today as you ascend through a forest of birch and pine, following a stream before reaching a forest track. Along the way, you’ll catch occasional dramatic views of Loch Ness through the trees. The trail passes through the village of Invermoriston, where you can admire the charming small bridge designed by Thomas Telford. The Invermoriston Hotel is an excellent spot for a meal, offering a selection of malt whiskies and beers from The Skye Brewery, and there are pleasant leafy walks along the river

Day 6

Invermoriston to Drumnadrochit

Meals

Breakfast

Accommodation

Luggage transfer included today 

  • Time

    6 hours

  • Distance

    13 miles

  • Ascent/Descent

    580/602m

You will be met with some steep and undulating sections today. The terrain is a mix of forest tracks, riverside paths, and low-level moorland, with some undulating and steeper sections. For confident experienced walkers and in good weather, you can make the most of an option to climb Meall Fuar-Mhonaidh, offering spectacular views stretching from Ben Nevis to Inverness. 

Today's walk will also give you the option of visit Urquhart Castle, which over looks Loch Ness, pause here and visit the cafe for a moment of rest to take in your surroundings before continuing on your walk to Drumnadrochit. The walk today ends in Drumnadrochit, a charming ‘Green Village’ that is home Loch Ness Monster visitor centres, cafés, and shops. This leg of the Great Glen Way combines woodland hiking, scenic loch views, historic sites, and charming village stops, making it one of the most rewarding sections of the trail.

Day 7

Drumnadrochit to Inverness

Meals

Breakfast

Accommodation

Luggage transfer included today

  • Time

    480 hours

  • Distance

    14/19 miles

  • Ascent/Descent

    493/6m

Today is usually one of the longer days, covering around 19 miles (30.5 km), which may be too much for some, particularly if you wish to explore Inverness along the way. To make the day more manageable, there is an optional taxi transfer from the town to Loch Laide, renowned for its exceptionally clean water. From there, the trail descends to Blackford, where the Great Glen Way meets the Caledonian Canal once again, before continuing into Inverness, a charming city that blends Victorian heritage with modern life. If you choose the taxi option, the walking distance is reduced to approximately 21 km (14 miles).

Day 8

Final Day

Your holiday arrangements come to and end after breakfast. 

Travel Details

The best way of getting to Fort William is by train from Glasgow Queen St. (which has good connections to Glasgow and Edinburgh Airports as well as Manchester, Birmingham, and London) 

When you reach Inverness, you can either fly from Inverness Airport or take a train to Edinburgh or Glasgow

Accommodation

Accommodation information

Below is an example of the type of accommodation you will be allocated on this holiday. Your final accommodation list will be confirmed on your travel documents, these will usually be with you around two weeks prior to departure.

Guisachan Guesthouse or Similar

Guisachan Guesthouse is a charming bed and breakfast in Fort William, offering sweeping views and warm Highland hospitality. Ideally located just a short walk from the town centre and local amenities. Each room features a private bathroom, television, tea and coffee-making facilities, and complimentary Wi-Fi. Guests can unwind on the outdoor sun terrace or relax in the welcoming bar, which serves a selection of local Scottish whiskies and other refreshments.

Distant Hills Guest House or Similar

Distant Hills Guest House offers everything you need for a comfortable and memorable stay. Guests can relax in the outdoor hot tub, enjoy a drink from the honesty bar stocked with local wines and beers, and make use of convenient packed-lunch options for days out exploring. The peaceful garden provides a lovely spot to unwind and take in the surroundings. All rooms are beautifully furnished and feature ensuite shower rooms, TVs, complimentary refreshments, free toiletries, and Wi-Fi, ensuring a relaxing and enjoyable stay from start to finish.

Forest Lodge Guest house or Similar

Forest Lodge Guesthouse is nestled in the Great Glen between Loch Lochy and Loch Oich, in the small hamlet of South Laggan. Every room overlooks the gardens and surrounding hills, rooms are equipped with tea/coffee-making facilities, hairdryer and toiletries.

Rose Cottage or Similar

Rose Cottage is a cosy, welcoming B&B in the Highland village of Fort Augustus, it is located just a short walk from local shops, pubs, restaurants. Rooms include a seating area, tea and coffee making facilites, free wifi and a TV. 

Darroch View B&B or Similar

Darroch View B&B is a tranquil bed & breakfast in the village of Invermoriston, close to Loch Ness. Rooms come with a flat-screen or satellite TV, free Wi-Fi, a mini-fridge, tea/coffee making facilities, heating, and complimentary toiletries.

Glenkirik B&B or Similar

Glenkirk is a charming, welcoming B&B in the village of Drumnadrochit on the shores of Loch Ness. Once the village church, the building has been beautifully converted into homely accommodation. Each room includes tea/coffee making facilities, towels, toiletries, and a hairdryer. 

Waverly Guest House or Similar

Waverley Guest House is centrally located in Inverness, just a few minutes’ walk from the historic castle, close to the city’s main amenities and within easy reach of the scenic Caledonian Canal. Rooms include flat‑screen TV, tea & coffee making facilities, and free Wi‑Fi throughout.

Trip Information

All the details you need

Holiday Grade

Trips comprise of day walks with plenty of ups and downs, some steep and rough ground will be encountered at times and walks averaging 7 miles with 650m of ascent / descent. Some holidays will cover longer distances on easier paths, others will be shorter walks but have more demanding ascents and terrain.  

Usual daily walks - Distance: 7 miles; Ascent/Descent 650m; Terrain: generally decent paths and tracks with some steeper sections; Walking Time: Day walks. 

The above statistics are generalisations of a day’s keys walk, it does not include distance covered during general sightseeing or daily activity. Detailed information of the daily walking requirements are specified in the specific holidays ‘Daily Itinerary".

Spending Money

Holiday Budgeting

As you plan your holiday budget, it's essential to account for expenses such as drinks, meals not covered in the holiday price, entrance fees not included, optional local excursions, and any souvenirs or additional services like laundry. For a rough estimate, budgeting around £10-£20 per person per day for lunches and drinks is a helpful guideline.

If your holiday does not include dinners (see itinerary) we recommend budgeting an additional £25-30 per day.

Tipping

Tips are not included in the holiday price. Although entirely at your own discretion, tipping is an important aspect of tourism and hospitality life and expectations are fairly high.  We strongly recommend when receiving good service you make a tip to the local supplier.

Your Travel Details

Personal Details Check

To ensure the accurate administration of your holiday arrangements, kindly verify that the personal details we have for you are current and correct. Confirm that you've given us all the necessary information for securing your travel and accommodation. Please review your passport details, date of birth, and any other pertinent information crucial for the management of your holiday.

Additionally, please make us aware of any dietary allergies or intolerances you may have. Your well-being is important to us, and this information will help us make appropriate arrangements for your meals during the trip.

You can access and update the provided information or add missing details through the "Manage My Booking" feature on our website at www.rambleworldwide.co.uk. Alternatively, reach out to our Sales and Reservations team at +44 (0)1707 331133. Upon receiving your booking confirmation, promptly check the details. Your cooperation ensures a seamless and enjoyable holiday experience.

Documentation

After booking your holiday, expect to receive a confirmation and holiday information sheet soon after.

Once you've settled your balance, about 4 weeks before your holiday, you will receive your 'Final Travel Documents' including your trip itinerary which will confirm all the services booked for you, complete with the names and addresses of your hotels and other service providers. Be prepared to present this voucher as confirmation at your accommodations, and don't forget to bring along a valid form of ID. 

Should you have decided to book any overseas flight arrangements through us, details of your flight arrangements and baggage allowance will be clearly outlined in your Final Travel Documents. 

You’ll also receive instructions on how to access the GUIBO App using your unique login details. Simply grab your Apple or Android smartphone and download the app from your app store. Once installed, the app becomes your personal travel companion, giving you instant access to everything you need for your trip. This comprehensive app provides detailed information on your walking routes, your tour itinerary, maps, route notes, destination manual, emergency numbers, travel information and information about the areas you will stay in.  


Meals

In general all of our self-guided holidays are on a bed and breakfast basis with breakfast provided at your accommodation. Depending on the route you are walking and access to local services such as restaurants, cafes and supermarkets, your itinerary may include packed lunches, dinners or a mix of both. Please refer to the individual itinerary and what is included for accurate information.

Hotel Changes

In most cases, you'll stay in the accommodation as listed for this trip. Occasionally, particularly during high season, an alternative accommodation will need to be arranged. When this happens we always try to maintain the same standards and quality. Where accommodation is changed, this might alter the start or end of the route, all details will be provided in the GUIBO app. You will be sent a final hotel list four weeks before departure. 

Footwear & Kit List

Footwear

Footwear is a walker’s personal choice; however, we suggest lightweight waterproof walking boots with a good, moulded sole (such as Vibram or similar) and a deep tread and which provide ankle support and may be essential for some walks.

Luggage Transfers

On a self guided holiday, the days you walk from one property to another, your main luggage will be transferred for you as part of your holiday arrangements. This leaves you free to just carry what you need for the day. All your belongings must be clearly marked with your name. Your individual itinerary will detail the days of your luggage transfers. The night before you leave your accommodation, please speak with your host for where the luggage should be left and by what time. 

General Kit List

Outdoor activities are always safer and more enjoyable if you are prepared.

If you have not travelled with us before the following list might be of use:

  • Day sack (this should be able to carry all you would need for the day's activity)
  • Day sack liner
  • Waterproof jacket (Goretex or similar) and trousers
  • Compass
  • Map case
  • Whistle
  • Lightweight quick-drying trousers
  • Walking T-shirt/shirts
  • Walking socks
  • Fleece or jumper
  • Sun hat, sunglasses, lip salve and sun block
  • Warm hat and gloves (if appropriate)
  • Water bottle - at least 2 litre capacity (more may be required)
  • Basic first aid kit
  • Lunchbox
  • Walking poles (should you find them useful)
  • Sit mat
  • Mobile
  • Power Bank for charging mobile if needed.
  • Phone charging lead

This list is not exhaustive, and every walker is different and may have their own preference.

Travel Documents Checklist

Documents and Information to take with you:

  • Holiday money
  • Credit or debit cards (and separate details of who to call if lost)
  • Car parking ticket and car park directions (if prebooked)
  • Coach or rail travel tickets (if prebooked)
  • Holiday booking confirmation document
  • Travel insurance details (if applicable)
  • Details of any medical condition or allergy your holiday leader should know about

Maps, Guidebooks & Other Information

Weather

You may wish to look at the following websites for an idea of the climate in your destination; BBC weather or MyWeather2. 

Staying Healthy On Holiday

Health requirements in destination can change, and it's crucial for you to take responsibility in staying informed. Ensure that you consult a professionally qualified source and comply with any health requirements at least 6 to 8 weeks before your departure. Your GP can provide advice on vaccinations. Stay proactive about your health preparations to ensure a safe and enjoyable travel experience.

Health Advice for United Kingdom

No compulsory immunisations are required for holidays in the UK although you should be up to date with the usual immunisations recommended for life in Britain. Tetanus immunisation is recommended.

Further Travel Advice

For further advice please visit:

You might wish to take a small bottle of antibacterial hand gel with you for times when you're unable to wash your hands.

Travel Insurance

It’s a condition of booking that you obtain adequate travel insurance, from a reputable provider, to undertake the holiday, including UK trips chiefly due to the cancellation element of cover.

The policy must cover the period from the date of booking to the last day of your trip and should include, as a minimum, cover for: medical expenses, mountain rescue including helicopter rescue, death, repatriation, cancellation and curtailment and shall not have exclusion clauses limiting cover for the activities you will partake in on your trip, including altitudes reached in the holiday arrangement. It is your responsibility to check that your policy is adequate for the nature and destination of the holiday booked.

Once you have obtained your travel insurance, please provide us with the name of your travel insurer, the policy number and the insurer’s 24 hour emergency assistance number.

In the event that you fail to obtain suitable travel insurance we shall not be liable for any costs incurred or claims made against us due to your failure to comply with this term.

If travelling outside the UK you must carry proof of insurance with you and produce it if reasonably requested to do so by RWH Travel staff, tour leaders or suppliers. No refunds will be made should you be excluded from the walking programme through being uninsured or you being unable to demonstrate that you are insured.


Personal Safety

The UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office is your go-to for the latest info on security, local laws, and the nitty-gritty of passports and visas at www.gov.uk/travelaware. Make sure to take a quick peek at the current advice for your upcoming destination—it'll only take a few minutes.

When you're out and about, stay aware of your surroundings. Take smart precautions with your credit cards and passport, and maybe tone down the flashy accessories. Less is more, especially when it comes to carrying cash—just enough for the day will do. Consider using a money belt for that extra layer of security. Stay alert, stay safe, and make the most of your travels!

Cultural Awareness

The Ramble Worldwide Outdoor Trust

Unlike many other tour operators, we take pride in our unique approach. Ramble Worldwide channels its surplus profits back into various outdoor, walking-related, or environmental conservation projects in the UK through our own trust. When you choose us, you contribute to this impactful initiative.

The Ramble Worldwide Outdoor Trust is passionate about making the outdoors more accessible for more people from all communities. We grant funds to many organisations and have recently partnered with Mind Over Mountains, Adaptive Grand Slam, and other groups to create an enduring impact on people’s lives and to support them to enjoy the outdoors. In addition, the Trust makes many small grants to local organisations such as Ramblers Groups, Walkers are Welcome, My kind of Books and recently provided a small grant, via his scouting group, to enable a young man whose family had fallen on hard times to complete his DofE Gold award.

Patron of the Trust is the renowned explorer, Mark Wood. Over 20 years Mark has undertaken expeditions to some of the most remote parts of our planet. Our shared values make for an exciting partnership, and we believe that by standing shoulder to shoulder we can encourage people from all communities to enjoy being active outdoors in whatever way suits them best.

For more comprehensive details, please visit the 'About' section on our website and click on the Charitable Trust link. Your choice to travel with us goes beyond a memorable vacation; it contributes to meaningful projects that have a positive impact on our community and environment.

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United Kingdom

  • Capital

    London

  • Currency

    Pound Sterling

  • Language

    English

  • Time Difference

    UTC +01:00

Visas and Passports

No Visa Required

Average weather

  • January

    4°C

    Avg. Rain: 70mm

  • February

    4°C

    Avg. Rain: 51mm

  • March

    6°C

    Avg. Rain: 51mm

  • April

    8°C

    Avg. Rain: 46mm

  • May

    11°C

    Avg. Rain: 49mm

  • June

    14°C

    Avg. Rain: 51mm

  • July

    16°C

    Avg. Rain: 58mm

  • August

    15°C

    Avg. Rain: 65mm

  • September

    13°C

    Avg. Rain: 62mm

  • October

    10°C

    Avg. Rain: 75mm

  • November

    7°C

    Avg. Rain: 74mm

  • December

    4°C

    Avg. Rain: 73mm

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