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Trip created by Rachael Gavan
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Region: West Highlands including Knoydart
Trip Type: Self Drive
Comfort: Classic
Deposit From N/A
£171.25
Difficulty: Your Own Pace
All you need to know about your trip, this essential document is a must for all adventures.
Download ItineraryExplore the wild and beautiful west coast of Scotland with this adventurous but accessible self-driving short break. From the personal achievement of summiting Ben Nevis, the UK’s highest mountain, to the thrill of kayaking with seals in the clear waters of the Sound of Arisaig, this itinerary offers you the chance to experience the very best of this area.
Based around Fort William and the Road to the Isles, you’ll make the most of your time here by mixing guided activities led by fully qualified experts with your own self-guided exploration. As well as keeping you safe and sharing special, local spots your guides will interpret the landscape through the flora, fauna, history and culture, enhancing your experience. You will also have plenty of time to relax and enjoy the wilds of western Scotland with your group.
The Ben Nevis and the West trip is part of our exciting collection of self-drive itineraries. You can enjoy this trip as a short break, or choose to extend your holiday by adding on one or more of our other itineraries in this range. Suitable for families, couples and groups of friends, the exciting and varied activities on these trips will be tailored to your interests and preferences, making them accessible to all ages and levels of experience. With the option to upgrade accommodation and add on extra days and activities, you are sure to find your perfect adventure.
As this trip is self-drive it starts from anywhere. You can bring your own car or hire ahead of time. Please get in touch for recommendations. The below self-drive itinerary starts and finishes in Fort William.
Make your way to Fort William today. If you are coming from the south you can journey across Rannoch Moor and through dark and brooding Glencoe. If coming from the northeast you travel down Loch Ness and past the famous Urquhart Castle. Either way, you’ll enjoy wonderful scenery and places to stop and stretch your legs. On arrival at your accommodation, there is time to settle before exploring the area and enjoy a hearty dinner tonight ahead of the next day’s adventure.
At 1,345 metres high (4413ft), Ben Nevis is the UK’s highest mountain. The objective today is the summit. As there are a few different routes, your guide will determine the best fit for your group depending on your experience and the weather. Starting from just about sea level this iconic mountain is a big day but the views from the top and the sense of achievement having climbed it is worth the challenge. If Ben Nevis isn’t right for you, there are many other incredible hikes in the area, from remote and challenging peaks to more relaxed options, each offers something special. Whatever you do today you’ll enjoy a well-deserved dinner this evening. (B)
This morning you’ll travel to Arisaig to meet your guide for a day of sea kayaking. The water here is sheltered and incredibly clear which makes it one of the best places in Scotland to kayak. With the tutelage of your expert guide, you’ll spend the day exploring the coastline and rocky skerries, home to a variety of wildlife including a seal colony. Taking care not to disturb them we’ll watch as they lounge on the rocks. They are curious and will often slip into the water, popping up beside you to get a closer look. Enjoy a picnic lunch on a deserted island where you can often see eagles soaring across the sky. Continue your explorations of the coastline this afternoon against the backdrop of the small isles of Eigg, Rum, Muck and the Isle of Skye. Return to your accommodation this evening with fantastic memories and the salty taste of the sea on your skin. (B)
After a relaxed breakfast head out to explore. There are many short hikes in the area you can enjoy, or you may prefer to visit some of the sites of historical interest. After lunch, head for home or extend your trip by adding one or more of the additional activities on offer. You may also want to link this trip with one of our other Self-Drive Collection itineraries for a longer adventure. (B)
Connecting Inverness to Scotland’s west coast is the Caledonian Canal. Canoeing a short section of this 19th century canal on a self guided voyage is a relaxing way to explore a scenic part of Scotland’s famous waterway. This afternoon you’ll have free time to explore. Maybe choose a local hike or enjoy a special afternoon tea in a castle hotel.
Spend the day enjoying the range of activities on offer at Nevis Range. Take the gondola up Aonach Mor, relax in the mountainside restaurant or hike one of the short walking trails which lead to viewpoints of the magnificent panoramas below. If raising adrenaline is more your style, why not try some of the challenging mountain bike routes and trail riding or the aerial assault course and zip line, which are suitable for all ages. During the winter months and early spring skiing and snowboarding are also great options. This can be booked with or without instruction.
Add a bit of island hopping to your trip with a day tour out to the community-owned Island
of Eigg. One of the most beautiful Hebridean islands, expect fascinating local history, great
hiking, wildlife spotting, and a colourful community. Enjoy this a self-guided adventure, or
be joined by one of our expert guides if you would like to hike to the highest point on Eigg
Calling all Harry Potter fans. Hop aboard for one of the greatest steam train journeys in the UK. The return journey on the “Harry Potter Steam Train” features wild scenery, incredible views across the sea to the Small Isles and Skye and the iconic Glenfinnan Viaduct.
To download a PDF copy of our Trip Itinerary, containing full details about this holiday, please complete the form below:
You will be based in the Fort William area at one of our excellent, hand-picked accommodation partners.
The accommodation on this trip is Classic standard and will generally be in a small hotel or guest house. However, if you would like to upgrade the accommodation on this trip to deluxe or 5* luxury please get in touch.
Throughout the trip, you can enjoy fresh local produce prepared locally and with regards to the season.
Breakfasts are included at your accommodation each morning. Packed lunches are not included but can usually be ordered from your accommodation the night before or from a local cafe/deli. We will be more than happy to make local restaurant suggestions.
Spend the day enjoying the range of activities on offer at Nevis Range. Take the gondola up Aonach Mor, relax in the mountainside restaurant or hike one of the short walking trails which lead to viewpoints of the magnificent panoramas below. If raising adrenaline is more your style, why not try some of the challenging mountain bike routes and trail riding or the aerial assault course and zip line, which are suitable for all ages. During the winter months and early spring skiing and snowboarding are also great options. This can be booked with or without instruction.
Connecting Inverness to Scotland’s west coast is the Caledonian Canal. Canoeing a short section of this 19th century canal on a self guided voyage is a relaxing way to explore a scenic part of Scotland’s famous waterway. This afternoon you’ll have free time to explore. Maybe choose a local hike or enjoy a special afternoon tea in a castle hotel.
Add a bit of island hopping to your trip with a day tour out to the community-owned Island of Eigg. One of the most beautiful Hebridean islands, expect fascinating local history, great hiking, wildlife spotting, and a colourful community. Enjoy this a self-guided adventure, or be joined by one of our expert guides if you would like to hike to the highest point on Eigg
Calling all Harry Potter fans. Hop aboard for one of the greatest steam train journeys in the UK. The return journey on the “Hogwarts Express” features wild scenery, incredible views across the sea to the Small Isles and Skye and the iconic Glenfinnan Viaduct.
At Your Own Pace
On this adventure you will be accompanied by a Wilderness Scotland hiking guide for several days, who will be able to suggest and lead you on a range of hikes from gentle low level rambles to challenging days visiting remote summits. Just let them know what type of hike you would like to do and they will be ready!
On the other days of the trip you will self guided and can explore at whatever pace you feel comfortable.
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