West Highland Way Highlights - 7 Days & 6 Nights

7 Days & 6 Nights

4.8

West Highland Way Highlights - 7 Days & 6 Nights

Complete Scotland’s most iconic long-distance hiking trail
The remote Scottish Highlands, shimmering lakes, and misty moors
Unwind with a dram of whiskey and soak up the friendly atmosphere
Hike from Loch Lomond to the wilderness of Rannoch Moor
Sense of accomplishment reaching Fort William at the base of Ben Nevis

Discover Scotland's spectacular landscape on the West Highland Way; towering mountains, tranquil lochs and rushing rivers combine to reward you with a unique and ever-changing experience as you journey from Drymen to Fort William.

This highlights itinerary takes in 66 miles of walking with an included transfer that skips the section between Inverarnan and Bridge of Orchy. Depart the village of Drymen where the route leads you up the shores of Loch Lomond giving a splendid panorama south over the loch. From Inverarnan you are transferred north to Bridge of Orchy where you'll walk via Inveroran and the remote Loch Tulla to Kingshouse Hotel on the open expanse of the Rannoch Moor. This really is Scottish Highland scenery at its best! Continue onto Kinlochleven via the “Devil’s Staircase” (not as intimidating as it sounds), before finally reaching Ben Nevis and, Scotland’s outdoor capital, Fort William.

Macs Adventure has been operating self guided walking holidays on the West Highland Way since 2003. Based locally, just a few miles from the start of the West Highland Way, our team has walked the West Highland Way countless times. So we really do know every step of the way. Each year over 2500 people trust us to organise their West Highland Way adventure and 99% would recommend us to a friend! But don’t just take our word for it, you can read over 800 authentic and unbiased West Highland Way customer reviews below.

From $1,130.24

Book Now Inquire Tour Brochure

Gallery

All Photos (12)

Itinerary

Expand all

Day 1 Arrive Drymen Day 2 Drymen to Rowardennan 14.5 miles / 23.5 km

Leave Drymen and walk through a forest plantation before the ascent of Conic Hill, which sits astride the Great Divide separating the highlands and lowlands of Scotland. The climb is fairly steep but on reaching the summit you can enjoy fantastic views over Loch Lomond, Britain’s largest body of fresh water covering 27 square miles. You will descend a steep path towards Balmaha, a small village nestling in a protected bay on the shores of bonnie Loch Lomond.

From Balmaha the path alternates between the loch shore, natural forest, and headlands. There are numerous short steep climbs along this section of the route. The scenery, forest, and birdlife between Balmaha and Rowardennan are outstanding.

During peak months, all accommodation at Rowardennan fills up well in advance. If there is no availability on the date requested, you will automatically be booked into alternative accommodation in Balmaha or Drymen. To get to/from the West Highland Way, a short return transfer will be arranged and a small supplement charge to cover the transfers will be added to your booking.

Ascent/Descent: +460/-489m

Overnight Rowardennan

Accommodations

A sample of our typical carefully chosen accommodation in this location. Where you stay will vary depending on availability, but will be a similar standard.

Rowardennan Hotel | Hotel

Rowardennan Lodges | Lodge

Situated on the rugged Eastern Shore of Loch Lomond in the magnificent Queen Elizabeth Forest, the Rowardennan Hotel has breath-taking views of Ben Lomond, Loch Lomond Loch Lomond and the mountains to the North. The lodges are situated in the gardens adjoining the Hotel and within each you have all that you require to enjoy a comfortable stay. In the evening you can enjoy a wee dram in the Clansman bar, watching the glorious views from the marvellous beer garden, and enjoy quality hot food, also served in the bar, and made using local ingredients, and designed to give you a filling meal after a long days walk. Wifi available in hotel.

The Oak Tree Inn | Country Inn

Standing in the shade of a magnificent 500-year-old oak tree, this unique country Inn which was constructed from locally quarried slate. Each room has its own individual character and all of the deluxe rooms in the cottages have views towards the loch. All rooms are en-suite and are well equipped to make your stay with them comfortable and enjoyable.

Day 3 Rowardennan to Inverarnan 14.5 miles / 23 km

Leaving Rowardennan, the West Highland Way follows forestry roads and gently climbs high up above Loch Lomond, giving fantastic views over the water and towards the peaks of the Arrochar Alps. As you close in on Inversnaid the path narrows and becomes more undulating, passing over a spectacular bridge and waterfall as you arrive at Inversnaid Hotel.

Departing Inversnaid you pass through the RSPB Inversnaid Nature Reserve and then close by to Rob Roy’s Cave. The path from Inversnaid to the head of the loch is hard going with numerous ups and downs and a generally rough surface. After leaving the lochside and passing Doune Bothy the path improves but it may seem a very long two miles from Ardleish to Inverarnan where the lovely Beinglas Farm marks the end of your day. Leave the way and follow the signs for Inverarnan. The 300-year old Drovers Inn is world-famous and provides the ideal location for your end-of-day refreshment.

If you are staying across the loch at Ardlui Hotel, then look out for the sign pointing to the little ferry (Around 2 miles before the end of this section). Walk down to the loch shore and call the ferry by raising the ball (you'll be returned to this same spot the following day).

Please ensure you check your tailored accommodation sheet for details of your overnight stay.

Ascent/Descent: +216m/-229m

Overnight Inverarnan

Accommodations

A sample of our typical carefully chosen accommodation in this location. Where you stay will vary depending on availability, but will be a similar standard.

Ardlui Hotel | 3 Star | Hotel

The hotel was built as a private hunting lodge for the Colquhoun family around 1851. It was first opened as a hotel in 1886 and two years later the east wing was added, while the west wing was added by 1905. The hotel today is painted white due to the three different types of stone used to build the main building & each of the two wings.

This hotel is one of the friendliest and most intimate hotels in Loch Lomond. With 10 en-suite rooms they offer a relaxed accommodation with great views across the northern shores.

Beinglas Farm | Bed and breakfast

Beinglas Farm is situated directly on the West Highland Way at the stage of Inverarnan and is within easy walking distance of the village centre. Beinglas Farm has been awarded a three star grading from the Scottish Tourist Board.

The Drovers Inn | Country Inn, Lodge

The Drovers Inn dates back to the 1800s. Packed full of history, it has been a welcomed, cosy stop for the weary hunters and travellers passing through the highlands for hundreds of years.

There are 15 rooms in the original Inn, these are filled with antique furniture, oil paintings and rich colours, but equipped with today’s modern comforts. When there is no availability in the original building, there are an additional 16 rooms in the lodge across the road, these are more modern chalet style rooms. Regardless of where you are staying, you are free to relax in the bar & lounge areas, and indulge in hearty Scottish cuisine and perhaps a dram of local whisky.

Day 4 Transfer to Bridge of Orchy, walk to Kingshouse 12.5 miles / 19.5 km

Today involves a short transfer from your accommodation in Inverarnan to Bridge of Orchy to begin your walk. There is a steep climb as you leave Bridge of Orchy, but you are rewarded with amazing views over Loch Tulla and the Black Mount hills. A short descent brings you to the isolated Inveroran Hotel.

This is our favourite section of the West Highland Way. Leaving Inveroran skirt Loch Tulla and join the military road across the Rannoch Moor, a wonderful, lonely, and exposed place that was once covered by a giant icecap and is today covered in a bog. There is no shelter and in bad weather, it can be exposed, whilst in good weather, Rannoch Moor is simply inspiring. The original 17th-century hotel at Kingshouse has now been replaced with a refurbished hotel, which provides unrivaled views of Buachaille Etive Mor, perhaps Scotland’s most photographed mountain.

Kingshouse: If you are staying in Kingshouse, an additional supplement may be payable depending on the time of year and the day of the week. If this is relevant to your preferred departure date, your Destination & Adventure specialist will communicate this with you upon confirming your booking.

Ascent/Descent: +442m/-372m

Overnight Kingshouse

Kingshouse Hotel sits in splendid isolation on the wild Rannoch Moor with arguably Scotland's best view of Buachaille Etive Mor.

Accommodations

A sample of our typical carefully chosen accommodation in this location. Where you stay will vary depending on availability, but will be a similar standard.

Kingshouse Hotel | 3 Star | Hotel

The Kings House Hotel is centred around a 17^th century Inn, believed to be one of Scotland's oldest licensed establishments. The original building was used after the Battle of Culloden in 1745, as a barracks for troops of George III, hence the name Kings House. The building has now been altered considerably over the past century and has now been redeveloped, refurbished and transformed to the highest standard. All rooms are comfortably decorated and have all the amenities you require for a comfortable night’s stay. There is also a drying room for those rainy days. The location of the Kingshouse Hotel could not be better and the view across to Buachaille Etive Mor has to be one of the most stunning vistas in all Scotland!

Strathassynt Guest House | Guest House

They are a family run, three-star, Scottish Tourist Board guest house situated right next to Glencoe Village at the foot of Glencoe itself, Strathassynt Guest House offers a home away from home in the Scottish Highlands.

Tom Eachainn B&B | Bed and breakfast

You will be warmly welcomed to Tom Eachainn by Colin and Susan, who provide comfortable en-suite accommodation within sight of Loch Leven. All rooms have hairdryer, TV, wifi, tea and coffee facilities and toiletries.

Day 5 Kingshouse to Kinlochleven 9 miles / 14.5 km Day 6 Kinlochleven to Fort William 15 miles / 24 km

The initial sharp climb out of Kinlochleven is worth it for the fantastic views it brings, and once over the top, you follow a wonderfully remote valley past deserted sheilings towards Fort William. Enter a beautiful area of cultivated forest and follow a narrow winding track into Glen Nevis. Towering ahead is Ben Nevis, Britain’s highest mountain, and you follow a wide forestry road down to the Visitor Centre. The final two miles are along the Glen Nevis road, bringing you to the official end of the West Highland Way at the main street of Fort William, where your adventure comes to a close.

Ascent/Descent: +504m/-509m

Overnight Fort William

Accommodations

A sample of our typical carefully chosen accommodation in this location. Where you stay will vary depending on availability, but will be a similar standard.

Myrtle Bank Guest House | Guest House

Dora welcomes you with open arms to her beautiful guest house - Myrtle Bank. Overlooking Loch Linnie and just a short stroll from the town centre Myrtle Bank is a wonderful place to relax at the end of the West Highland Way.

Guisachan House | Guest House

A warm welcome awaits you at Guisachan House, a family run private guest house. They are situated in an elevated position off the main road with views over Loch Linnhe and surrounding hills only 5 minutes walking distance from Fort William town centre. They have 17 bedrooms and a guest lounge and bar offering wine, beer, spirits and malt whiskey. Wireless Internet is available for the guests. There is some photography dotted around the guest house taken by Phil, one of the owners.

Fassfern Guesthouse | Guest House

Located in a prime residential area overlooking Loch Linnhe, the guest house is only 5 minutes walk from the shops and restaurants in Fort William town centre. You are assured a warm welcome at this splendid property and all rooms are en-suite with central heating, flat screen televisions and tea/coffee making facilities. There is free WiFi.

Day 7 Onward travel from Fort William

THIS TRIP'S CARBON SCORE

This trip has a carbon score of 9kg per person per night, meaning it’s one of our greenest trips! For comparison, a carbon count of 9kg is equivalent to 5.5 avocados. Here at Macs, we pride ourselves on being a responsible travel company and continue to adopt, develop and innovate ways to positively impact the environment. Find out more information about how we've carbon counted our trips.

Reviews

Expand all

Other Information

Expand all

Is it for me? Accommodation & Meals

Accommodations

This trip includes overnight stays in a combination of small hotels, guest houses, and B&B’s. We have worked with many of our local partners for over 20 years. Our great relationships with them will ensure you receive the best attention from the moment you check in!

Accommodation is limited in remote locations along the trail with sometimes just one option. Keep in mind that the standard of accommodation varies throughout your trip, and be sure to book early. All properties offer a warm welcome to hikers, traditional Scottish hospitality, and delicious local food. While offering outstanding service, accommodations are not often equipped with air-conditioning and rooms may become warm during summer despite the temperate climate and cool nights.

With a variety of rooms available, we book en suite rooms as standard, meaning that the bathroom is connected to the bedroom. If en suite rooms are unavailable, we may book a room with shared facilities, but we will always inform you in advance.

Accommodation Location

We will always try to accommodate you at the locations detailed in your itinerary. Occasionally due to limited availability, you will be accommodated at an alternative location to confirm your booking on your preferred travel dates. For example, if you are staying in Inverarnan on your itinerary, you may need to spend 2 nights in either Tyndrum, Crianlarich, or Bridge of Orchy (depending on your chosen trip itinerary). In that case we will include transfers to and from these locations, and they will be included in the cost of your tour. There may be other locations where you will have to stay at an alternative location, rest assured that we will always ask you about this in advance.

The Kingshouse Hotel

During busy booking times a supplement may apply when staying at the Kingshouse Hotel. Unfortunately, this can’t be avoided due to the hotel’s increasing costs on certain dates of the year. If you do not want to stay at the Kingshouse, there will be no supplement. You can stay in Glencoe or Ballachulish as an alternative.

Solo Hikers

This holiday is available to solo hikers, although a supplement is payable as double-occupancy rooms are booked and costs are not shared. If you require single rooms within your party, we would be happy to accommodate your request, although a supplement is payable. It is not generally possible to secure more than three single rooms in a party.

Meals

Breakfast is included each morning while lunch and dinner are not included so you are free to choose from the available options. Your accommodation may be able to provide a packed lunch on request and this can be booked and paid for on arrival. Alternatively, the Macs Adventure App will point out any recommended lunch spots along the way. Dinner is available either at your accommodation or at nearby pubs and restaurants.

Extending your vacation

You may wish to take some extra nights along the route, either to rest or for those with plenty of energy to explore some of the other walking opportunities nearby. We recommend extra nights at Rowardennan (for climbing Ben Lomond, a Munro with commanding views over Loch Lomond), Crianlarich (a halfway stop with options for visiting the seaside town of Oban, complete with whisky distillery, via the local train service), or Fort William (for climbing Ben Nevis, the UK's highest mountain).

Navigation What's Included When to go

When To Go

This trip is available from the end of March to mid-October. We suggest booking as soon as your plans are finalized as the West Highland Way is extremely popular and will sell out quickly (especially over April/May and July/August). We will always try our best to book your preferred dates, and having some flexibility in your travel dates improves our chances of confirming your booking.

Busy times in Kinlochleven are at the end of April and the beginning of May. This is because the "Pre-65 Scottish Motorcycle Trials" are held here during that time. There is also a busy time in Fort William at the end of April for a week because of the "Scottish 6 Days Trial Event". We have blocked start dates accordingly due to these events as availability is extra tight on these particular dates.

A supplement may apply when staying at the Kingshouse Hotel. Unfortunately, this can’t be avoided due to the hotel’s increasing costs on certain dates of the year. If you do not want to stay at the Kingshouse, there will be no supplement and you can stay in Glencoe or Ballachulish as an alternative.

Weather and Climate

Scotland's climate is notoriously changeable! From May to September, Scotland experiences temperate weather with the least amount of rainfall in May making it the most popular time to hike the West Highland Way. The months of June, July, and August mark the 'vacation season' (or holiday season) and accommodations are very busy during these months making it essential to book early. July and August are usually warmest with average temperatures around 57°F, and highs of up to 77°F. Traveling at the start of the season (March/April) or toward the end (October) will offer a much quieter experience. Keep in mind that some snow may remain or even fall on the higher parts of the route in the months of March and the start of April.

The weather can be changeable and unpredictable any month, often resulting in experiencing “all four seasons in a single day”. All hikers are advised to monitor the forecast and always be prepared with waterproofs, extra layers, sun-cream, and hats - your hike will be much more enjoyable if you're ready for all types of weather!

Travel & Transfers

Getting to the Start

By Air

Glasgow International Airport
Located 8 miles west of Glasgow is served by routes from around Britain and the world. A regular shuttle service runs to the city centre. Visit their website for details of operators and routes. From Glasgow local bus services serve Drymen
Web: http://www.glasgowairport.com/

Prestwick International Airport
Located 30 miles south of Glasgow, Prestwick is served primarily by Ryanair. A train service runs from Prestwick to Glasgow city centre. Note that this takes approx. 50 minutes so don't cut it too fine. Again their website has details of routes and operators. From Glasgow local bus services serve Drymen
Web: http://www.glasgowprestwick.com/

By Rail
Glasgow is served by several operators from throughout Britain. It is important to book as far in advance as possible to get the best fares. For information on all routes contact National Rail Enquires. From Glasgow local bus services serve Drymen
Web: www.nationalrail.co.uk

By Road
Glasgow is served by an excellent motorway network. Long term parking is generally not available in the city centre but unsecure parking is available in Milngavie and Drymen. For directions and journey planner visit:
Web: http://www.bing.com/maps/

By Coach
Services from UK destinations are operated by National Express. From Glasgow local bus services serve Drymen
Web: www.nationalexpress.com
Services from Scottish destinations are operated by Scottish Citylink. From Glasgow local bus services serve Drymen
Web: www.citylink.co.uk

Getting from the End

By Rail

If you are returning to Glasgow, we recommend taking the train on the West Highland Line, renowned as one of the world's most scenic rail journeys (duration: 4hrs). It's an experience in itself! Reserving your seat in advance is recommended to secure the best fare.

If you're interested in exploring Scotland for a bit longer, you can for example connect to Inverness or Mallaig (then onto the Isle of Skye by ferry) by rail, using Scotrail. Speak to one of our experts for assistance or you need help planning another adventure.

By Bus

From Fort William you have the option to take Citylink buses directly to Glasgow (duration: 3hrs, 15min), Edinburgh city center (duration: 5hrs, 20 min), or Edinburgh Airport (duration: 5 hrs). You can also continue your journey to the Isle of Skye using the Citylink bus service.

By Private Taxi

Upon request, we can arrange private taxi transfers from Fort William. For more information, please contact our team of experts.

Luggage Transfer

Your bags will be collected from your accommodation each day and moved onto your overnight accommodation. We ask you to limit your luggage to one bag of up to 20kg/44lbs per person. Please ensure that you do not bring more than one bag of 20kg as if this occurs, the luggage transfer company will ask you to pay an additional fee. Our luggage transfer company can store the extra bag for you whilst you are on the tour and will deliver it to your final accommodation for an additional cost. Extra luggage and bag storage costs can be made locally.

At Macs Adventure, we work in partnership with many luggage transfer providers who set a limit on how many bags/suitcases they will transfer per person, and also the weight of the bag/suitcase. Your booking includes transfer of 1 bag per person. It is very important that you read the luggage information specific to your tour before departure. If you do not adhere to these limits, there is a great possibility that you will be charged locally both for extra bags or if they are too heavy. This limitation can be a challenge, especially as airlines generally have limits that are higher. However, our luggage providers have reasons for these limits (usually due to the Health and Safety of their employees), which we must respect.

Info & FAQ

General Information

The distances and ascent/descents are approximations of the recommended routes. Please be prepared by packing all necessary items, for example, proper rain gear (jacket and pants), sun hat, sunscreen. Your information pack has a detailed equipment list which includes standard walking gear such as good walking boots or shoes, warm and waterproof clothes for the cooler months and lightweight clothing for summer, and a day pack.

Online Documents

At Macs Adventure we care about the environment! We’re taking action to minimize the impact we have by converting the majority of our tour documentation for online delivery.

On this tour, all your detailed tour information will be digitally delivered. You will have access to this documentation via “My Account” on our website.

Equipment

Having suitable footwear (hiking shoes/boots), comfortable and functional clothing, a waterproof jacket and trousers, a daypack, and hats/gloves is essential. You'll be outdoors for the majority of your time, so it's crucial to be prepared for changing weather conditions, rain or shine. Carrying waterproofs and sunscreen is advisable! Your Trip Information Pack contains a list of the necessary equipment along with some helpful suggestions. While you don't need specialized or technical gear, bringing hiking poles could prove beneficial.

Travel Insurance

It is a requirement of booking this tour with Macs Adventure that you have suitable travel insurance which covers you for the activity and emergency evacuation and hospital care.

How fit do I need to be? How far in advance do I need to book? What personal equipment do I need? When is the best time of year? What are the midges like? Am I able to take my dog? What happens if I can’t walk a stage?

Featured

Why Macs

Reasons to believe in Macs Adventure:

The Biggest Choice

Self-guided hiking & biking is all we do - we have over 500 tried & tested trips.

Around Since 2003

We’re still founder led & the world’s number one self-guided operator with mountains of experience.

21,000+ Customer Reviews

Plus, with a Feefo Platinum Service Award & British Travel Awards, you know you're in good hands.

Positive Impact

We use independent suppliers to support communities along our routes, as well as work with organizations to help maintain & restore paths.

The Macs Way

At Macs, we don’t do tour buses, groups, or guides. Instead, we give you the freedom and confidence to have your own self-guided hiking or biking adventure.

This is active travel led by you.

Travel On Your Terms

You choose your departure date and who you travel with, we do the rest.

The People Behind Your Journey

We sort accommodation and luggage transfers and provide your route in an easy-to-use app.

Here When You Need Us

We give you everything you need to travel independently but we're here 24/7 if you need us.

Achieve Something

Getting from A to B under your own steam is intensely rewarding. With Macs, you'll see the world, and yourself, differently.

West Highland Way Highlights - 7 Days & 6 Nights

Gallery

Itinerary

Other Information

Online Documents