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    Self Guided Walking

    West Highland Way

    329 reviews

    Next Trip: 15th - 24th Apr 2024 Duration: 10 Days / 9 Nights

    From: £1,485 View Prices & Dates

    Travel Planning & Advice

    Book With Confidence

    Trip created by Stevie Christie
    View Stevie's Profile

    Region: West Highlands including Knoydart
    Trip Type: Self Guided
    Accommodation: Classic
    Min Group Size: 2 ? Solo Travellers
    We don’t offer self-guided trips for solo travellers. However, our small group trips are perfect for those travelling independently.

    Deposit From: £382

    Grading:

    Carbon Footprint: 107kg ? What does this mean?
    Click here to find out about our carbon labelling project and what we're doing to be more sustainable.

    All you need to know about your trip, this essential document is a must for all adventures.

    Download Itinerary

    The West Highland Way is a classic, long-distance trail and the first of its kind in Scotland. Stretching 154 km (96 miles) from Milngavie on the edge of Glasgow to Fort William in the Highlands, this incredibly scenic route traverses a landscape rich in history, heritage and natural beauty. 

    Winding its way north, the route ribbons along the bonnie banks of Loch Lomond, across the sweeping and atmospheric Rannoch Moor, and past the dramatic Glencoe to finish at the foot of Ben Nevis – Scotland’s highest mountain. It follows old drover trails and 18th-century military roads, picks its way up the Devil’s Staircase and offers breathtaking and ever-changing evocative views.

    On the self guided version of this iconic trail, spanning a total of 9-nights and 10-days, we arrange your accommodation, your baggage transfers and provide you with detailed notes, maps and insider tips. With no need to worry about logistics, enjoy this fantastic route entirely unencumbered and make the most of your wonderful Scottish adventure.

    Please note: Total daily distances are given for each stage but will vary slightly as you also need to walk to your accommodation each day, which will usually add a short distance.

    Booking Notes and Accommodation Upgrades Read More

    We have several dates available to book immediately listed below. To do so, your party must have a minimum of two participants and a maximum of four.

    There is also the option to upgrade your accommodation and opt for a five-star hotel on the final night of your trip. These dates are listed below and marked as “luxury”.

    Another option is to upgrade your accommodation and opt for five-star hotels on the final three nights of your trip. Please get in touch with our friendly sales team to request this directly. This would be from £3,195 per person.

    If you would prefer different dates, or are booking for a larger group, then please don’t hesitate to get in touch and our sales team will handle your enquiry directly. Please note that if you are requesting different dates your first accommodation may be in Milngavie rather than Glasgow.

    It is also worth noting that the accommodations en route provide the means of completing the West Highland Trail – and, while clean, warm and welcoming, tend not to be the highlight. We do offer many brilliant trips that are more accommodation and food-focused and if this is something you are interested in, then we would be delighted to hear from you.

    Solo Travellers Read More

    We don’t offer self-guided trips for solo travellers. However, our small group trips are very popular for those travelling independently. If you would like to join one, don’t hesitate to have a browse of all our adventures here.

    Trip Highlights

    • Hike the 96 miles of the West Highland Way, enjoying the challenge of Scotland's iconic long distance trail.
    • Immerse yourself in the stunning and diverse landscapes of the western Highlands.
    • Pick the perfect dates and let us handle all the logistics: accommodation, luggage transfers, maps, route notes and insider information.

    Day by Day Itinerary

    Day 1 – Arrive in Glasgow

    Arrive in Glasgow today, Scotland’s biggest city and a thriving metropolis full of art, culture, music and history. Enjoy spending some time exploring, perhaps visiting Kelvingrove Art Museum and meandering through the West End, stopping for a coffee in the Botanical Gardens, and appreciating the beautiful architecture of the University. This evening, relax in your accommodation before starting your hiking adventure tomorrow.

    Day 2 – Milngavie to Drymen

    This morning, take the train from Glasgow to Milngavie (pronounced mil-gai) to the starting point of the West Highland Way. Before beginning your hike, drop your luggage off with the transfer service (located at the start of the trail) and start hiking north. Pass Craigallian and Carbeth Lochs, skirting the western flanks of the Campsie Fells (where many a Glaswegian mountaineer enjoyed their first outing) before reaching tonight’s hotel in the village of Drymen.

    Walk details: 19 km/12 miles | 210 m/690 ft of ascent

    Day 3 – Drymen to Rowardennan

    The trail leaves the pretty village of Drymen this morning and passes through Garadhban Forest. From the quiet woodland, you can climb Conic Hill (361m in height with great views over Loch Lomond) or choose a lower-level, alternative path that skirts below the sharp little peak. Reaching the eastern banks of Loch Lomond at Balmaha, follow the shoreline through the trees until you reach the tranquil setting of Rowardennan, a picturesque village at the foot of Ben Lomond.

    Walk details: 22.5 km/14 miles | 430 m/1,410 ft of ascent

    Day 4 – Rowardennan to Inverarnan

    Today is considered by many to be one of the most challenging. The trail tumbles its way along the shores of Loch Lomond and is reasonably rough underfoot. However, it’s well worth it, as the terrain is wild and remote and provides ample opportunities to spot red deer and golden eagles. The views are also spectacular – sweeping moorland, great corries and shattered mountain peaks. The path improves as you approach the tiny settlement of Invernarnan and your cosy bed for the night.

    Walk details: 22.5 km/14 miles | 475 m/1,560 ft of ascent

    Day 5 – Inverarnan to Tyndrum

    This morning make your way along Glen Falloch before turning northwest to Strath Fillan. The landscape feels expansive and wild here, where the wind meanders through long grasses and meadow pipits skim across the tops of purple heather. As you approach the small village of Tyndrum, enjoy the wonderful views of Ben Lui to the west and, closer to home, spot the hardy plants that push up from rocky soil. Arrive in the village and relax at your accommodation for the night.

    Walk details: 19 km/12 miles | 490 m/1,608 ft of ascent

    Day 6 – Tyndrum to Bridge of Orchy

    This fantastic day begins with a climb out of Tyndrum, with the trail running next to the West Highland Railway line. At the top of the pass, the views are fantastic as you traverse the sweeping flanks of Beinn Odhar, Beinn a’ Chaisteil and Beinn Dorain. Approach the Bridge of Orchy along the old military road until you see the railway station. Turn left and arrive in the village, which dates back to 1751.

    Walk details: 10 km/6 miles | 134 m/440 ft of ascent

    Day 7 - Bridge of Orchy to Glencoe

    Leaving Bridge of Orchy behind this morning, head into the brooding melancholy of Glencoe. A steady climb provides stunning views of Loch Tulla and across Rannoch Moor, which rolls out ahead of you towards the horizon. Ribbon your way across the lonely landscape, looking out for red deer and birds of prey. Arrive in Glencoe and check into your warm and breathtakingly-located hotel. Note: There is an option to upgrade your accommodation on this night to a five-star hotel.

    Walk details: 20 km/12.5 miles | 470 m/1,540 ft of ascent

    Day 8 – Glencoe to Kinlochleven

    Today is especially rewarding and, although shorter than those previous, contains the biggest amount of ascent. Zig-zag up a trail known as the ‘Devil’s Staircase’ to the top of the pass at 547m. The views from here are incredible and arresting; the mountain summits often misted in snow even in the height of summer. Descend on a good trail to the small village of Kinlochleven, settling into your accommodation for the night. Note: There is an option to upgrade your accommodation on this night to a five-star hotel.

    Walk details: 14 km/8.5 miles | 430 m/1,410 ft of ascent

    Day 9 – Kinlochleven to Fort William

    The final day of your adventure is suitably enchanting and deservedly satisfying. Begin by walking through the woods above Kinlochleven before strolling along a great glen which provides captivating views of Ben Nevis and the surrounding mountains. Descend steadily towards Fort William, where a bronze sculpture of a walker marks the celebratory end of your adventure. Note: There is an option to upgrade your accommodation on this night to a five-star hotel.

    Walk details: 24 km/15 miles | 475 m/1,560 ft of ascent

    Day 10 – Fort William and Depart

    After a leisurely breakfast this morning, enjoy pulling on some comfy shoes and spending some time exploring Fort William. Grab a coffee and a well-deserved pastry as you amble around, popping into a bookshop, outdoor shop or bakery before beginning your journey home. Catch the train back to Glasgow, enjoying watching the scenic countryside rumble past outside your window, satisfied in the knowledge that you just walked 96 miles of it on foot.

    X
    Self Guided Walking
    West Highland Way

    To download a PDF copy of our Trip Itinerary, containing full details about this holiday, please complete the form below:

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    Trip Dates & Prices

    We don’t offer self-guided trips for solo travellers. However, our small group trips are very popular for those travelling independently. If you would like to join one, don’t hesitate to have a browse of all our adventures here.

    All payments taken in local currency GBP

    Trip Dates for 2024AvailabilityPriceBook
    15th Apr - 24th Apr 2024Trip Full £1,485
    21st Apr - 29th Apr 2024Trip Full £1,925
    29th Apr - 8th May 2024Trip Full £1,485
    6th May - 15th May 2024 Luxury departureTrip Full £1,935
    13th May - 22nd May 2024Trip Full £1,485
    20th May - 29th May 2024 Luxury departureTrip Full £1,935
    27th May - 5th Jun 2024Trip Full £1,485
    3rd Jun - 12th Jun 2024 Luxury departureTrip Full £1,935
    10th Jun - 19th Jun 2024Trip Full £1,485
    17th Jun - 26th Jun 2024 Luxury departure4 places left £1,935Book Now
    24th Jun - 3rd Jul 20242 places left £1,485Book Now
    1st Jul - 10th Jul 2024 Luxury departure2 places left £1,935Book Now
    8th Jul - 17th Jul 2024Trip Full £1,485
    15th Jul - 24th Jul 2024 Luxury departure2 places left £1,935Book Now
    15th Jul - 25th Jul 2024Trip Full £1,485
    22nd Jul - 31st Jul 20242 places left £1,485Book Now
    29th Jul - 7th Aug 2024 Luxury departure2 places left £1,935Book Now
    5th Aug - 14th Aug 20244 places left £1,485Book Now
    12th Aug - 21st Aug 2024 Luxury departure4 places left £1,935Book Now
    19th Aug - 28th Aug 2024Trip Full £1,485
    26th Aug - 4th Sep 2024 Luxury departureTrip Full £1,935
    27th Aug - 4th Sep 2024Trip Full £1,485
    9th Sep - 18th Sep 2024 Luxury departure2 places left £1,935Book Now
    16th Sep - 25th Sep 2024Trip Full £1,485
    23rd Sep - 2nd Oct 2024 Luxury departureTrip Full £1,935
    30th Sep - 9th Oct 2024Trip Full £1,485

    Trip Details

    Accommodation Read More

    At each stage of your trek, we will arrange accommodation for you to stay that night. The accommodations range from small guesthouses, Highland inns, small hotels and bed and breakfast establishments which will be of a 3 or 4-star standard.

    The rooms are twin bedded, if you’d prefer a double bed please let us know and we’ll request that at each accommodation, but we can’t guarantee that this will be possible at every establishment.

    For the luxury dates listed, you’ll stay in one 5 star accommodation for night 9. For nights 1 – 8, you’ll stay in the classic accommodation as the choice is very restricted.

    There is the option to upgrade your accommodation and opt for a five-star hotel on nights 7 & 8 in addition to night 9, please get in touch with our friendly sales team to request this directly.

    Additionally, it’s important to mention that the accommodations along the way serve as the necessary facilities for finishing the West Highland Trail. While they are clean, comfortable, and hospitable, they may not be the main attraction. We have a variety of exceptional trips that place a stronger emphasis on accommodation and food. If this aligns with your preferences, we would be delighted to chat through other options.

    Meals Read More

    Accommodation will be reserved on a Bed & Breakfast basis – lunches and evening meals are not included. Local shops sell sandwiches and snacks for the day ahead. Many guesthouses will also be able to provide a packed lunch for you if you ask them the night before. In the evenings, meals can be taken in local restaurants, hotels or bars.

    Inclusions Read More
    • 9 nights’ accommodation on a Bed and Breakfast basis in Guest Houses, Bed and Breakfasts, Small Hotels and Inns along the route, based on two people sharing a twin or double room
    • Luggage transfer for 1 bag per person (strict 20kg limit) for the duration of the trip, meaning you will only have to carry a day rucksack
    • Route notes which include a map and full directions to your accommodation
    • The services of the Wilderness Scotland Team prior to & during your trip

    Please note that the train journey from Glasgow to Milngavie is not included in the trip cost. Tickets can easily be purchased on the day from the ticket machine at the station for approximately £5 pp.

    Trip Grading Read More

    Blue Graded 4-6

    Self guided Blue graded walking holidays are suitable for fit and experienced hikers. Walking at a good pace you can expect to be out for 6-8 hours a day. You will be following a trail but should understand how to follow a hiking map with at least basic navigation skills. Daily distances will vary – typically up to 20km but may be longer occasionally, or often on the more challenging trips in the grade. Daily hike details are available in the itinerary.

    Trail conditions will vary from well laid and maintained sections of gravel track to rough and rocky sections including muddy and wet areas. Short sections may be on tarmac.

    Booking Notes and Accommodation Upgrades Read More

    We have several dates available to book immediately listed above. To do so, your group must have a minimum of two participants and a maximum of four.

    There is also the option to upgrade your accommodation and opt for a five-star hotel on the final night of your trip. These dates are listed above and marked as ‘luxury’.

    Another option is to upgrade your accommodation and opt for five-star hotels on the final three nights of your trip. Please get in touch with our friendly sales team to request this directly. This would be from £3,195 per person.

    If you would prefer different dates, or are booking for a larger group, then please don’t hesitate to get in touch and our sales team will handle your enquiry directly. Please note that if you are requesting different dates your first accommodation may be in Milngavie rather than Glasgow.

    It is also worth noting that the accommodations en route provide the means of completing the West Highland Trail and, while clean, warm and welcoming, tend not to be the highlight. We do offer many brilliant trips that are more accommodation and food-focused and if this is something you are interested in, then we would be delighted to hear from you.

    Solo Travellers Read More

    We don’t offer self-guided trips for solo travellers. However, our small group trips are very popular for those travelling independently. If you would like to join one, don’t hesitate to have a browse of all our adventures here.

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    Speak to an Expert

    Jane Gillies

    Our friendly office team hail from across the world but share a passion for the outdoor and wild spaces of Scotland. We are committed to providing you with the best customer service and are more than happy to chat through options and provide help and advice. Get in touch to find your perfect adventure.

    Ask Jane a Question

    Meet Your Guide

    Difficulty Grades Explained

    Blue Graded Self Guided Holidays 4-6

    Self guided Blue graded walking holidays are suitable for fit and experienced hikers. Walking at a good pace you can expect to be out for 6-8 hours a day. You will be following a trail but should understand how to follow a hiking map with at least basic navigation skills. Daily distances will vary – typically up to 20km but may be longer occasionally, or often on the more challenging trips in the grade. Daily hike details are available in the itinerary.

    Trail conditions will vary from well laid and maintained sections of gravel track to rough and rocky sections including muddy and wet areas. Short sections may be on tarmac.

    Trip Reviews

    Rated 4.85 out of 5 based on 329 reviews of Self Guided – West Highland Way

     

    Every client receives a feedback survey when they return from their guided, self guided or tailor made holiday with us. Once completed the review is published on our website just as soon as our database updates. The little touches and details are important to us and where issues are raised we make positive changes to our trips to improve your experience.

    That’s why we read each of our client’s reviews and although we don’t respond to all of them, if it’s glowing feedback then we get the satisfaction of helping to make your holidays truly memorable.

    ES

    Elizabeth Sharrett

    Reviewed on 21/08/2023

    Age: 40 - 50
    Country: USA
    Trip Date: 05/06/2023
    Trips Taken: 0

    The Bottom Line

    KW

    Kirsten Woody

    Reviewed on 16/08/2023

    Age: 50 - 60
    Trip Date: 28/07/2023
    Trips Taken: 1

    The Bottom Line

    The Bottom Line

    An amazing, memorable way to see Scotland. Our favorite was walking through the Highland Munros. People along the way were friendly and we felt safe. Loved having our bags transported each day and having our accommodations figured out and booked by you! The information you provided before the trip was very helpful - we knew exactly what we were going to expect. This was our first ‘walking vacation’ and now we can’t wait to do more :-) Thank you!

    EW

    Esther Wenning

    Reviewed on 14/08/2023

    Age: 0 - 10
    Trip Date: 21/07/2023
    Trips Taken: 1

    The Bottom Line

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