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Scotland

The Great Glen Way

This route takes you through the scenic Great Glen, following the Caledonian Canal from Fort William to Inverness.

Distance : 79 Miles/127 Kilometers
Elevation : Low to Moderate
Difficulty : Beginner to Intermediate
Best time to visit : April to October.

The Great Glen Way, spanning 79 miles (127 km) from Fort William to Inverness, follows Scotland’s iconic Great Glen fault line, connecting the Atlantic Ocean with the North Sea. This scenic trail passes through a mix of lochs, forests, and small villages, with highlights including the famous Loch Ness and sweeping views of Ben Nevis. The route offers a gentler experience compared to some of Scotland’s other long-distance trails, with well-marked paths suited to both seasoned hikers and beginners.

Divided into six manageable stages of around 10-15 miles each, the Great Glen Way is often completed in 5-7 days. Accommodations along the route are varied, including B&Bs, campsites, and hotels, many of which offer warm Scottish hospitality and a chance to explore local culture. Wildlife sightings are common, with red deer, osprey, and sometimes even the elusive Nessie rumored to make appearances along Loch Ness.

The best time to walk the Great Glen Way is from May to September, when longer days and milder weather make the hike more enjoyable. For those seeking a unique outdoor experience in Scotland without extremely demanding terrain, the Great Glen Way provides a perfect balance of natural beauty, history, and accessibility.

Tips

Look out for the Loch Ness Monster!

Scenery

Loch Ness, Caledonian Canal, Scottish Highlands.

Wildlife

Otters, birds of prey.

Facilities

Campsites, B&Bs, hotels.

Highlights

Jacobite history, Urquhart Castle.

Historical significance

Jacobite history, Urquhart Castle.

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Great Glen Way

With 79 miles of path, track, canal and loch to discover, the Great Glen Way has something for all wayfarers. Whether travelling by Boot, Boat or Bike, get set for your own special journey.

The Great Glen Way

The Great Glen Way stretches for 118.5km from coast to coast across the Highlands, linking the main centres of Fort William and the regional capital of Inverness. The route follows the major natural faultline of the Great Glen which divides Scotland from coast to coast.