Planning a trip on the West Highland Way can be daunting, especially if this is your first long distance walking holiday. We are often asked the following questions and I hope that you will find the answers useful.
Please don’t hesitate to contact us or perhaps visit our walking forum for more advice from our clients and team. Discover the forum...
At 95 Miles the West Highland Way is a fair distance and the higher your level of fitness the more you will enjoy the experience. Most of our itineraries involve between 5 and 10 hours walking daily so you should be comfortable walking on good tracks and paths over undulating terrain for at least 6 to 7 hours. If you currently don’t enjoy that level of fitness regular walking in hilly terrain supplemented by cardio vascular exercise for at least 6 months prior to your walk is recommended. A good gym or personal trainer will be able to draw up a personalised training programme.
We suggest you book as soon as your plans are finalised as the West Highland Way is extremely popular especially over April/May and July/August. You will find up to date availability on our website and we will always try and accommodate your plans.
You will need good walking shoes/boots (ideally waterproof), comfortable walking clothes, waterproof jacket and trousers, a daypack and hats/gloves etc. Our info packs have a list of all equipement to bring on your walk.
Traditionally April/May has always been the most popular time of year because the theory goes that the weather is better and the midges have not yet appeared. Although having walked the way in every summer month I believe any time between late March and October offers a wonderful experience.
Midges are small biting insects (much like north American knats) which are prevalent in the summer months. They are particularly bad on still, overcast days but do not bother you if you are moving, the wind is blowing, sun is shining, it’s raining, or you are inside so as long as you carry repellent for the odd occasion you may need it they shouldn’t have any impact on your experience.
Unfortunately we are unable to accommodate walkers with dogs as many of the accommodation providers we use do not accept pets and several sections of the way are closed to dogs as they are permissive paths through farm land.
You can use public transport, local taxis or our baggage van may be able to move you to the next overnight stop. Full details are included in your info pack.
"I would just like to say we had a really enjoyable holiday and would have no hesitation in recommending you to other people. Keep up the good work."
"The service that we received from Macs adventure was excellent and it certainly took the hassle factor out of planning the trip. We would certainly use the company again. It was good value for money and I was impressed with the efficiency of the customer service.
The trip lived up to everything you suggested and certainly proved that it ranked as a truly 'unforgettable' experience. Your choices of accommodation really added to the experience and special mention should be made to the staff at the Bridge of Orchy Hotel and George at Tigh-na-Cheo for their memorably warm welcomes. From everyone on the BBC team we wish you a very good season and hope many more clients continue to enjoy your excellent services."
"Hi, you booked a last-minute walking holiday for me on the West Highland Way. I'm finally taking a moment to send you my thanks! The trip went off without a hitch and it was, by far, the best vacation I have ever taken. Every day was perfect, the lodging you selected was great, and the baggage service was a lifesaver. I will remember this trip for the rest of my life. Thank you!"