30 years' experience providing walking holidays worldwide
Established by 30 years' experience providing walking holidays worldwide
30 years' experience providing walking holidays worldwide
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Bravo!
Auswalk Walking Holiday rated "excellent" by232 travellers
-
SELF-GUIDED
-
8 DAYS
-
Easyto
Moderate
PRICE FROM
$ 1,175 per person
SINGLE SUPPLEMENT
$ 650 per person
WALK MENU
OVERVIEW
OVERVIEW
Walk the Great Glen Way following canal towpaths and woodland trails along the shores of Loch Ness to the hilltop castle of Inverness. Beginning in the Highland coastal town of Fort William, the trail heads northeast and follows the impressive Caledonian Canal which links a picture-perfect series of lochs: Loch Oich, Loch Lochy and the atmospheric Loch Ness. The trail ventures into ancient woodlands and up onto heather-clad moors where red deer roam high on the hillsides.
HIGHLIGHTS:
- Walk along the Caledonian Canal to the Highland capital, Inverness
- Watch boats journey through the lock gates of Neptune's Staircase
- Explore canal side pubs in the charming town of Fort Augustus
- Keep your eyes peeled for the elusive Loch Ness Monster
- Spot red deer, grouse, and birds of prey
- Stay in family-run bed and breakfasts, country hotels, and old coaching inns
ITINERARY
DAY one
Arrive Fort William
On the shores of Loch Linnhe, Fort William’s train station makes for easy arrival. Gateway to Glen Nevis valley and the UK’s highest peak, Ben Nevis (1345m), the town sits in the privileged position amongst stunning scenery and excellent walking trails. The compact town centre has plenty of cosy cafes and traditional bars to sample Highland whiskies.
Accommodation: Myrtle Bank Guest House
Overlooking Loch Linnhe and only a short walk from town, Myrtle Bank is run by Dora and her team. In a converted Victorian Villa, ensuite rooms are classically furnished. The property also has extensive gardens and is a personal passion of Dora’s. Known for its friendly atmosphere, this guest house is a great start to some of the finest walking days in Scotland.
DAY two
Fort William to Spean Bridge
Starting at the old Fort ruins, walk from Fort William around the coast of Loch Linnhe to the Great Caledonian Canal. Follow the canal towpath past the famous eight locks of Neptune’s Staircase. Here you can watch boats making their way through the cascading series of gates which were constructed over 200 years ago. Continue along the towpath for a gentle day of walking ending at Spean Bridge.
Accommodation: Coireglas Guest House
Meals: Breakfast
Walking: 24km (option to finish after 17km)
Elevation: +50 or 150 / -50 or 150
On the edge of Spean Bridge village, this friendly B&B is run by Morven and Simon. Their 10-bedroomed guesthouse sits in beautiful sheltered gardens and overlooks the spectacular Grey Corries. The guesthouse is only a few minutes walk from the village centre and the superb gastronomic restaurant, Smiddy House.
DAY three
Spean Bridge to Laggan Locks
From Spean Bridge, rejoin the Great Glen Way at Gairlochy to walk along the shores of Loch Lochy. An immensely peaceful walk through woodlands. The route progresses to a gentle climb above the loch onto wide woodland tracks. The route descends to Laggan Locks where Loch Lochy is funnelled into the Caledonian Canal.
Accommodation: Forest Lodge B&B
Meals: Breakfast
Walking: 19km
Elevation: +200 / -200
Simple homestyle accommodation run by Lorraine and Laura. Cosy guest lounge and sunroom.
DAY four
Laggan Locks to Fort Augustus
Today walk to the charming town of Fort Augustus. A gentle stroll along the shores of Loch Oich to the Bridge of Oich where you re-join the Caledonian Canal towpath and continue to Fort Augustus. On the southern tip of Loch Ness, Fort Augustus has a number of canalside pubs where you can watch boats navigate their way through the gates or sit and wait for a sighting of the mythical Loch Ness monster.
Accommodation: The Bank B&B
Meals: Breakfast
Walking: 14.5km
Elevation: +130 / -150
A lovely B&B located only a couple of minutes walk from the Caledonian Canal. Some of the ensuites have retained the wooden vaulted walls, and the property has beautifully maintained gardens.
DAY five
Fort Augustus to Invermoriston
As the saying goes in Scotland, you can take the high road or low road today! Both of which have far-reaching views across Loch Ness. On a fine, clear day, the extra effort required for the high route is definitely worth it. Enjoy beautiful spots for a picnic lunch with views across the loch to Beinn a’Bhacaidh. Arriving in Invermoriston, marvel at Telford’s early 19th-century double-arched bridge, which spans the moody River Moriston.
Accommodation: Bracarina House
Meals included: Breakfast
Walking: 13km
Elevation: +450 or 200 / -420 0r 150
A Highland welcome invites you to Invermoriston, and is warmly provided by Bracarina House, a cosy and delightful Bed and Breakfast. Rooms are located on the first floor and offer garden or mountain views. Next door to a traditional-style inn, a popular restaurant serving classic Scottish dishes and the bar is well stocked with single malts and locally brewed beers.
DAY six
Invermoriston to Drumnadrochit
From Invermoriston, the trail works its way up through woodlands with excellent viewpoints over Loch Ness. After a short while, the route splits offering a high and low route for a few km. The recommended high route is a splendid walk through open moorland where you may catch glimpses of black grouse and hen harriers. The low route follows forestry roads which are home to a wide range of butterflies. The paths converge to follow a steep descent into Drumnadrochit.
Accommodation: Greenlea B&B
Meals: Breakfast
Walking: 14km
Elevation: +500 or 740 / -500
Tucked away in the corner of the village green this delightful cottage dates back to 1810. Once a place where farmers traded cattle, the B&B is only a couple of minutes from the Fiddlers Pub, famous for its food and whisky selection. Ensuite rooms are very comfortable and your hosts, Gordon and Miranda, are always on hand to make your stay a good one.
DAY seven
Drumnadrochit to Inverness
The trail leaves Drumnadrochit along a roadside and then swings inland as it climbs into the hills high above Loch Ness to continue through the Great Glen. There are some excellent sections through the scenic forest today and stopping at the Abriachan Farm eco-café for their signature lemon cake is a must! Nearing Inverness the route begins to flatten until you reach the Caledonian Canal for one last time. From here, walk along the banks of the River Ness to finish at Inverness Castle, overlooking Scotland’s cultural capital of the Highlands.
This longer day can be reduced by around 15km by arranging a transfer to Abriachan Forest at the time of booking and walking to Inverness from there. We recommend that you consider our 9-day option which splits this day into two if this is of interest.
Accommodation: Drumdale B&B
Meals: Breakfast
Walking: 30km
Elevation: +530 / -450
Just 5 minutes from the city centre, Drumdale is an original Victorian villa, with very well-preserved features. All rooms are ensuite, and breakfast is served in a traditional-style room with a variety of continental and Scottish dishes.
DAY eight
Onward Travel
Depending on your onward travel plans, the nearby train station is only a 10-minute taxi journey from your accommodation.
Meals: Breakfast
WHAT’S INCLUDED
- Walk the entire length of the Great Glen Way in 8 days
- 7 nights accommodation in 3* or 4* hotels & guest houses
- All luggage transfers
- 7 breakfasts
- Maps, comprehensive walk notes, and gpx tracks
ACCOMMODATION & DINING
During this tour, you will spend each night in 3*or 4* hotels and guest houses. The accommodation on this tour has been chosen for its location. Your hosts are knowledgeable about the region and are happy to help with any questions or assistance you might need. Of course, you can always call us too should you need anything during your walk. As many of the overnight stays are in remote settings, on occasion we may have to book another similar accommodation of equal standard. We will discuss these options with you during the booking process. For this tour, we would always advise booking as soon as you have chosen your travel dates. The hotels on this tour get very busy.
Dining
You will be provided with 7 breakfasts. If you have any food allergies or intolerances, please let us know at the time of booking so we can let your hosts know. Should you have severe food allergies, it’s always worth bringing a few of your own snacks with you.
Single Rooms
If you are travelling with friends and family but would like your own room, just let us know when booking. Single rooms can be booked for an additional payment.
GENERAL INFO
AVAILABILITY
This walk is available from April through to October.
So the saying goes in Scotland, always be prepared for a change of weather! Regardless of when you travel, you can experience rainy days with temperatures dipping to 12°C and on the same day, clear skies and sunshine of up to 22°C. In the early and later weeks of the season, it isn’t unusual to see snow on the mountain tops, and you may even experience a frost. May and June are usually the months with the least rainfall, followed by July, August and September. However, what Scotland lacks in warm weather, it truly makes up for it with hospitality.
THE WALKING
Easy to moderate with 2 moderate days of walking. An active lifestyle makes walking more enjoyable, an exercise regime of 2 to 3 times a week is needed along with usual walks. Days are generally easy-going underfoot. Distances on this walk range from 13km to 30km in a day. There are some very easy-going days along canal tow paths, whilst several of the days will have between 500-700m of ascent, so you should be physically prepared for a change of terrain mid-way through the walk. The route will have sections of canal tow paths, forest roads, rocky trails and in places, loose terrain underfoot. Trails are very well-defined and waymarked. You will also walk through towns and villages. Although the route is well waymarked, for each of your walks, you will be provided with daily summaries, a map, a guidebook and the GPX tracks if you require to use them for your own device.
HOW TO GET THERE AND AWAY
This walk starts in Fort William and finishes in Inverness.
To Fort William
Fort William does not have an airport. The closest airports are Glasgow, Edinburgh and Inverness.
From Glasgow airport, you can catch the shuttle bus to central Glasgow and take a direct train service from Glasgow Queen Street (3hrs 45min journey). If arriving at Edinburgh airport you can take a bus to Edinburgh Haymarket and change for a train to Fort William, travelling via Glasgow Queen Street.
Should you be flying in and out of Inverness, bus services connect the airport and Fort William, with a journey time of around 3hrs.
If travelling from London, you can take a domestic flight to either Glasgow or Edinburgh and connect to Fort William via the train.
Caledonian Sleeper Train – to Fort William
A great way to travel from London is by taking the overnight Caledonian Sleeper train. Depending on the day, services depart London Euston around 10 pm, travel through the night and arrive in Fort William around 8.30 am the following day.
Onward Travel From Inverness
The nearby airport has excellent domestic connections across the UK and a limited service into Europe.
Alternatively, the Inverness train has onward connections to Glasgow and Edinburgh (4hrs 30mins).
For all train travel in the UK, please check The Trainline or National Rail for timetables, prices and ticket purchases.
If travelling on the Caledonian Sleeper Service, please check Caledonian Sleeper for information.
Another useful planning tool for travel is Rome2Rio should you be travelling from, or to, other destinations.
INSURANCE
We require that you have adequate travel insurance against potential losses, damage or injury, including cancellation costs and loss of luggage.
For all trips that require international travel, you must have purchased travel insurance that also includes medical evacuation coverage.
We also charge a cancellation fee if you cancel your walking holiday after we have confirmed it to cover costs incurred from our suppliers and in the office. See the FAQ section for more information.
CONTACT
If you have any questions, feel free to ask one of our destination consultants. You can get in touch with us via our contact form or email us at info@stroll.com
sections
Overview
Walk the Great Glen Way following canal towpaths and woodland trails along the shores of Loch Ness to the hilltop castle of Inverness. Beginning in the Highland coastal town of Fort William, the trail heads northeast and follows the impressive Caledonian Canal which links a picture-perfect series of lochs: Loch Oich, Loch Lochy and the atmospheric Loch Ness. The trail ventures into ancient woodlands and up onto heather-clad moors where red deer roam high on the hillsides.
HIGHLIGHTS:
- Walk along the Caledonian Canal to the Highland capital, Inverness
- Watch boats journey through the lock gates of Neptune's Staircase
- Explore canal side pubs in the charming town of Fort Augustus
- Keep your eyes peeled for the elusive Loch Ness Monster
- Spot red deer, grouse, and birds of prey
- Stay in family-run bed and breakfasts, country hotels, and old coaching inns
Itinerary
DAY one
Arrive Fort William
On the shores of Loch Linnhe, Fort William’s train station makes for easy arrival. Gateway to Glen Nevis valley and the UK’s highest peak, Ben Nevis (1345m), the town sits in the privileged position amongst stunning scenery and excellent walking trails. The compact town centre has plenty of cosy cafes and traditional bars to sample Highland whiskies.
Accommodation: Myrtle Bank Guest House
Overlooking Loch Linnhe and only a short walk from town, Myrtle Bank is run by Dora and her team. In a converted Victorian Villa, ensuite rooms are classically furnished. The property also has extensive gardens and is a personal passion of Dora’s. Known for its friendly atmosphere, this guest house is a great start to some of the finest walking days in Scotland.
DAY two
Fort William to Spean Bridge
Starting at the old Fort ruins, walk from Fort William around the coast of Loch Linnhe to the Great Caledonian Canal. Follow the canal towpath past the famous eight locks of Neptune’s Staircase. Here you can watch boats making their way through the cascading series of gates which were constructed over 200 years ago. Continue along the towpath for a gentle day of walking ending at Spean Bridge.
Accommodation: Coireglas Guest House
Meals: Breakfast
Walking: 24km (option to finish after 17km)
Elevation: +50 or 150 / -50 or 150
On the edge of Spean Bridge village, this friendly B&B is run by Morven and Simon. Their 10-bedroomed guesthouse sits in beautiful sheltered gardens and overlooks the spectacular Grey Corries. The guesthouse is only a few minutes walk from the village centre and the superb gastronomic restaurant, Smiddy House.
DAY three
Spean Bridge to Laggan Locks
From Spean Bridge, rejoin the Great Glen Way at Gairlochy to walk along the shores of Loch Lochy. An immensely peaceful walk through woodlands. The route progresses to a gentle climb above the loch onto wide woodland tracks. The route descends to Laggan Locks where Loch Lochy is funnelled into the Caledonian Canal.
Accommodation: Forest Lodge B&B
Meals: Breakfast
Walking: 19km
Elevation: +200 / -200
Simple homestyle accommodation run by Lorraine and Laura. Cosy guest lounge and sunroom.
DAY four
Laggan Locks to Fort Augustus
Today walk to the charming town of Fort Augustus. A gentle stroll along the shores of Loch Oich to the Bridge of Oich where you re-join the Caledonian Canal towpath and continue to Fort Augustus. On the southern tip of Loch Ness, Fort Augustus has a number of canalside pubs where you can watch boats navigate their way through the gates or sit and wait for a sighting of the mythical Loch Ness monster.
Accommodation: The Bank B&B
Meals: Breakfast
Walking: 14.5km
Elevation: +130 / -150
A lovely B&B located only a couple of minutes walk from the Caledonian Canal. Some of the ensuites have retained the wooden vaulted walls, and the property has beautifully maintained gardens.
DAY five
Fort Augustus to Invermoriston
As the saying goes in Scotland, you can take the high road or low road today! Both of which have far-reaching views across Loch Ness. On a fine, clear day, the extra effort required for the high route is definitely worth it. Enjoy beautiful spots for a picnic lunch with views across the loch to Beinn a’Bhacaidh. Arriving in Invermoriston, marvel at Telford’s early 19th-century double-arched bridge, which spans the moody River Moriston.
Accommodation: Bracarina House
Meals included: Breakfast
Walking: 13km
Elevation: +450 or 200 / -420 0r 150
A Highland welcome invites you to Invermoriston, and is warmly provided by Bracarina House, a cosy and delightful Bed and Breakfast. Rooms are located on the first floor and offer garden or mountain views. Next door to a traditional-style inn, a popular restaurant serving classic Scottish dishes and the bar is well stocked with single malts and locally brewed beers.
DAY six
Invermoriston to Drumnadrochit
From Invermoriston, the trail works its way up through woodlands with excellent viewpoints over Loch Ness. After a short while, the route splits offering a high and low route for a few km. The recommended high route is a splendid walk through open moorland where you may catch glimpses of black grouse and hen harriers. The low route follows forestry roads which are home to a wide range of butterflies. The paths converge to follow a steep descent into Drumnadrochit.
Accommodation: Greenlea B&B
Meals: Breakfast
Walking: 14km
Elevation: +500 or 740 / -500
Tucked away in the corner of the village green this delightful cottage dates back to 1810. Once a place where farmers traded cattle, the B&B is only a couple of minutes from the Fiddlers Pub, famous for its food and whisky selection. Ensuite rooms are very comfortable and your hosts, Gordon and Miranda, are always on hand to make your stay a good one.
DAY seven
Drumnadrochit to Inverness
The trail leaves Drumnadrochit along a roadside and then swings inland as it climbs into the hills high above Loch Ness to continue through the Great Glen. There are some excellent sections through the scenic forest today and stopping at the Abriachan Farm eco-café for their signature lemon cake is a must! Nearing Inverness the route begins to flatten until you reach the Caledonian Canal for one last time. From here, walk along the banks of the River Ness to finish at Inverness Castle, overlooking Scotland’s cultural capital of the Highlands.
This longer day can be reduced by around 15km by arranging a transfer to Abriachan Forest at the time of booking and walking to Inverness from there. We recommend that you consider our 9-day option which splits this day into two if this is of interest.
Accommodation: Drumdale B&B
Meals: Breakfast
Walking: 30km
Elevation: +530 / -450
Just 5 minutes from the city centre, Drumdale is an original Victorian villa, with very well-preserved features. All rooms are ensuite, and breakfast is served in a traditional-style room with a variety of continental and Scottish dishes.
DAY eight
Onward Travel
Depending on your onward travel plans, the nearby train station is only a 10-minute taxi journey from your accommodation.
Meals: Breakfast
What’s Included
- Walk the entire length of the Great Glen Way in 8 days
- 7 nights accommodation in 3* or 4* hotels & guest houses
- All luggage transfers
- 7 breakfasts
- Maps, comprehensive walk notes, and gpx tracks
Accommodation & Dining
During this tour, you will spend each night in 3*or 4* hotels and guest houses. The accommodation on this tour has been chosen for its location. Your hosts are knowledgeable about the region and are happy to help with any questions or assistance you might need. Of course, you can always call us too should you need anything during your walk. As many of the overnight stays are in remote settings, on occasion we may have to book another similar accommodation of equal standard. We will discuss these options with you during the booking process. For this tour, we would always advise booking as soon as you have chosen your travel dates. The hotels on this tour get very busy.
Dining
You will be provided with 7 breakfasts. If you have any food allergies or intolerances, please let us know at the time of booking so we can let your hosts know. Should you have severe food allergies, it’s always worth bringing a few of your own snacks with you.
Single Rooms
If you are travelling with friends and family but would like your own room, just let us know when booking. Single rooms can be booked for an additional payment.
General Info
AVAILABILITY
This walk is available from April through to October.
So the saying goes in Scotland, always be prepared for a change of weather! Regardless of when you travel, you can experience rainy days with temperatures dipping to 12°C and on the same day, clear skies and sunshine of up to 22°C. In the early and later weeks of the season, it isn’t unusual to see snow on the mountain tops, and you may even experience a frost. May and June are usually the months with the least rainfall, followed by July, August and September. However, what Scotland lacks in warm weather, it truly makes up for it with hospitality.
THE WALKING
Easy to moderate with 2 moderate days of walking. An active lifestyle makes walking more enjoyable, an exercise regime of 2 to 3 times a week is needed along with usual walks. Days are generally easy-going underfoot. Distances on this walk range from 13km to 30km in a day. There are some very easy-going days along canal tow paths, whilst several of the days will have between 500-700m of ascent, so you should be physically prepared for a change of terrain mid-way through the walk. The route will have sections of canal tow paths, forest roads, rocky trails and in places, loose terrain underfoot. Trails are very well-defined and waymarked. You will also walk through towns and villages. Although the route is well waymarked, for each of your walks, you will be provided with daily summaries, a map, a guidebook and the GPX tracks if you require to use them for your own device.
HOW TO GET THERE AND AWAY
This walk starts in Fort William and finishes in Inverness.
To Fort William
Fort William does not have an airport. The closest airports are Glasgow, Edinburgh and Inverness.
From Glasgow airport, you can catch the shuttle bus to central Glasgow and take a direct train service from Glasgow Queen Street (3hrs 45min journey). If arriving at Edinburgh airport you can take a bus to Edinburgh Haymarket and change for a train to Fort William, travelling via Glasgow Queen Street.
Should you be flying in and out of Inverness, bus services connect the airport and Fort William, with a journey time of around 3hrs.
If travelling from London, you can take a domestic flight to either Glasgow or Edinburgh and connect to Fort William via the train.
Caledonian Sleeper Train – to Fort William
A great way to travel from London is by taking the overnight Caledonian Sleeper train. Depending on the day, services depart London Euston around 10 pm, travel through the night and arrive in Fort William around 8.30 am the following day.
Onward Travel From Inverness
The nearby airport has excellent domestic connections across the UK and a limited service into Europe.
Alternatively, the Inverness train has onward connections to Glasgow and Edinburgh (4hrs 30mins).
For all train travel in the UK, please check The Trainline or National Rail for timetables, prices and ticket purchases.
If travelling on the Caledonian Sleeper Service, please check Caledonian Sleeper for information.
Another useful planning tool for travel is Rome2Rio should you be travelling from, or to, other destinations.
INSURANCE
We require that you have adequate travel insurance against potential losses, damage or injury, including cancellation costs and loss of luggage.
For all trips that require international travel, you must have purchased travel insurance that also includes medical evacuation coverage.
We also charge a cancellation fee if you cancel your walking holiday after we have confirmed it to cover costs incurred from our suppliers and in the office. See the FAQ section for more information.
CONTACT
If you have any questions, feel free to ask one of our destination consultants. You can get in touch with us via our contact form or email us at info@stroll.com
ENQUIRE NOW
If you’re looking for further information on any of our walking holidays please fill out the enquiry form and we’ll be in touch.