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
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SELF-GUIDED
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5 DAYS
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Easyto
Moderate
PRICE FROM
$ 885 per person
SINGLE SUPPLEMENT
$ 475 per person
WALK MENU
OVERVIEW
OVERVIEW
Discover the best of the Great Glen Way and Loch Ness on this short walking break. At the southern end of Loch Ness sits the historic town of Fort Augustus. Set on the banks of the 200-year-old Caledonian Canal, the inviting water-side pubs are a great spot to sample local single malt whiskies and watch boats gently make their way through the colossal lock gates. Leaving Fort Augustus, the trail ventures into ancient woodland and up onto heather-clad moors, where red deer roam high on the hillsides. Descend to the waterside town of Drumnadrochit with views of the mystical remains of Urquhart Castle on the shores of Loch Ness.
HIGHLIGHTS:
- Walk from Loch Ness to the historic Inverness Castle
- Hike through ancient woodlands and along hillside trails above Loch Ness
- Keep your eyes peeled for the mythical Loch Ness Monster
- Spend time in the canal side pubs of Fort Augustus
- Spot red deer, grouse, ospreys and the elusive golden eagle
- Stay in welcoming family-run bed and breakfasts and old coaching inns
- The perfect short break to experience walking in the stunning Scottish landscape
ITINERARY
DAY one
Arrive Fort Augustus
Arrive in the charming town of Fort Augustus. Nestled on the southern tip of Loch Ness, Fort Augustus has a number of lock side pubs where you can spend the afternoon watching 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
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 two
Fort Augustus to Invermoriston
As the saying goes in Scotland, you can take the high road or low road today! Both 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 to have a picnic with views across the loch to Beinn a’Bhacaidh. Arriving in Invermoriston, admire Telford’s early 19th-century double-arched bridge which spans the moody River Moriston.
Accommodation: Glenmoriston Arms
Meals: Breakfast
Walking: 13km
Elevation: +450 or +200 / -420 or -150
This traditional-style inn provides contemporary ensuite rooms, a comfortable lounge area to read and relax and a popular restaurant serving classic Scottish dishes. The bar is well stocked with single malts and locally brewed beers, and there is always a recommended ‘Malt of the Month’ to try before bed!
DAY three
Invermoriston to Drumnadrochit
From Invermoriston, the trail works its way up through woodland with excellent views of Loch Ness. After a short while, the route splits offering a high and low route for a few km. The high route is a splendid walk across 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 four
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 along the Great Glen. There are some excellent sections through the very 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 the finishing point at Inverness Castle, overlooking Scotland’s cultural capital of the Highlands.
Accommodation: Drumdale B&B
Meals: Breakfast
Walking: 30km. This can be reduced to approx 15kms by arranging a transfer to Abriachan Forest at the time of booking and walking to Inverness from there. We recommend that you consider our 6-day trip which splits this day into two if this is of interest
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 such as Scots oats porridge and cooked Scottish breakfast.
DAY five
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 Great Glen Way from Fort Augustus to Inverness in 5 days
- 4 nights accommodation in 3* hotels & guest houses
- All luggage transfers
- 4 breakfasts
- Maps, comprehensive walk notes and gpx tracks
ACCOMMODATION & DINING
During this tour, you will spend each night in 3* 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 you have chosen your travel dates. The hotels on this tour get very busy.
Dining
You will be provided with 4 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
Moderate 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 sections along canal towpaths, whilst other sections have between 500-700m of ascent, so you should be physically prepared for the change of distances and ascent. 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 are very well 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 walks starts in Fort Augustus and ends in Inverness.
Travel to Fort Augustus
Fort Augustus 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. At Fort William, you can change for a direct bus service to Fort Augustus (1hr journey).
Should be flying into Inverness, bus services connect with Fort Augustus (1hr journey time).
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
MAP
sections
Overview
Discover the best of the Great Glen Way and Loch Ness on this short walking break. At the southern end of Loch Ness sits the historic town of Fort Augustus. Set on the banks of the 200-year-old Caledonian Canal, the inviting water-side pubs are a great spot to sample local single malt whiskies and watch boats gently make their way through the colossal lock gates. Leaving Fort Augustus, the trail ventures into ancient woodland and up onto heather-clad moors, where red deer roam high on the hillsides. Descend to the waterside town of Drumnadrochit with views of the mystical remains of Urquhart Castle on the shores of Loch Ness.
HIGHLIGHTS:
- Walk from Loch Ness to the historic Inverness Castle
- Hike through ancient woodlands and along hillside trails above Loch Ness
- Keep your eyes peeled for the mythical Loch Ness Monster
- Spend time in the canal side pubs of Fort Augustus
- Spot red deer, grouse, ospreys and the elusive golden eagle
- Stay in welcoming family-run bed and breakfasts and old coaching inns
- The perfect short break to experience walking in the stunning Scottish landscape
Itinerary
DAY one
Arrive Fort Augustus
Arrive in the charming town of Fort Augustus. Nestled on the southern tip of Loch Ness, Fort Augustus has a number of lock side pubs where you can spend the afternoon watching 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
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 two
Fort Augustus to Invermoriston
As the saying goes in Scotland, you can take the high road or low road today! Both 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 to have a picnic with views across the loch to Beinn a’Bhacaidh. Arriving in Invermoriston, admire Telford’s early 19th-century double-arched bridge which spans the moody River Moriston.
Accommodation: Glenmoriston Arms
Meals: Breakfast
Walking: 13km
Elevation: +450 or +200 / -420 or -150
This traditional-style inn provides contemporary ensuite rooms, a comfortable lounge area to read and relax and a popular restaurant serving classic Scottish dishes. The bar is well stocked with single malts and locally brewed beers, and there is always a recommended ‘Malt of the Month’ to try before bed!
DAY three
Invermoriston to Drumnadrochit
From Invermoriston, the trail works its way up through woodland with excellent views of Loch Ness. After a short while, the route splits offering a high and low route for a few km. The high route is a splendid walk across 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 four
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 along the Great Glen. There are some excellent sections through the very 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 the finishing point at Inverness Castle, overlooking Scotland’s cultural capital of the Highlands.
Accommodation: Drumdale B&B
Meals: Breakfast
Walking: 30km. This can be reduced to approx 15kms by arranging a transfer to Abriachan Forest at the time of booking and walking to Inverness from there. We recommend that you consider our 6-day trip which splits this day into two if this is of interest
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 such as Scots oats porridge and cooked Scottish breakfast.
DAY five
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 Great Glen Way from Fort Augustus to Inverness in 5 days
- 4 nights accommodation in 3* hotels & guest houses
- All luggage transfers
- 4 breakfasts
- Maps, comprehensive walk notes and gpx tracks
Accommodation & Dining
During this tour, you will spend each night in 3* 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 you have chosen your travel dates. The hotels on this tour get very busy.
Dining
You will be provided with 4 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
Moderate 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 sections along canal towpaths, whilst other sections have between 500-700m of ascent, so you should be physically prepared for the change of distances and ascent. 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 are very well 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 walks starts in Fort Augustus and ends in Inverness.
Travel to Fort Augustus
Fort Augustus 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. At Fort William, you can change for a direct bus service to Fort Augustus (1hr journey).
Should be flying into Inverness, bus services connect with Fort Augustus (1hr journey time).
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.