The West Highland Way

Day 1 Arrive Milngavie -

Your holiday begins with an overnight stay in Milngavie, the friendly suburb where the West Highland Way officially starts.

It’s easy to reach by train from Glasgow, with taxis and local buses also available, and those arriving by car can usually park at the station for free or occasionally at their accommodation in return for a small charitable donation.

With cafés, shops and restaurants just a short stroll away, it’s a comfortable place to settle in before you walk. Staying here means you can start the trail refreshed and enjoy a relaxed beginning as you make your way to the obelisk marking the start of your journey.

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Day 2 Milngavie to Drymen - 12 miles (19.5 kilometres)

Your West Highland Way adventure begins in Milngavie (pronounced ‘Mull-guy’), a leafy suburb on the edge of Glasgow where a granite obelisk marks the official start of the trail. Within minutes you leave the bustle behind, following an old railway line beside Allander Water and then quiet paths through woodland and parkland. It’s a gentle introduction to the route: easy gradients, varied surfaces and that lovely sense of being steadily “walked out” of the city and into open country.

The Way soon enters Mugdock Country Park, an area of mixed woodland, lochs and old estate tracks. This is classic lowland scenery, with birdsong in the trees and glimpses of the ruins of Mugdock and Craigend Castles hinting at the area’s long history. As you continue past Craigallian Loch, you pass the memorial to the “Craigallian Fire”, where Glasgow walkers and climbers once gathered in the 1920s and 30s – a small but very special spot in Scotland’s outdoor story.

Beyond here the landscape begins to open out. A grassy track known as Tinker’s Loan brings your first big views of the Campsie Fells, with the conical summit of Dumgoyne standing proud on the skyline and, on a clear day, a tempting first glimpse of Ben Lomond ahead. The Way joins the line of the old Blane Valley Railway for an easy, mostly level stretch through Strath Blane, with the option to pause at the Beech Tree Inn or detour to the Glengoyne Distillery if time and legs allow.

The final miles to Drymen follow quiet lanes and field paths, with wide views over Strath Endrick and back towards the landscapes you’ve just walked through. It’s a satisfying first day: enough distance to feel you’ve really started your journey, but on friendly terrain that lets you find your pace, enjoy the changing scenery and look forward to the wilder Highland sections still to come.

You will spend this evening in the vicinity of Drymen.

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Day 3 Drymen to Rowardennan - 14.5 miles (23.5 kilometres)

Leaving Drymen, the route picks up easy tracks and paths through Garadhban Forest, gradually gaining height on good surfaces. The walking is straightforward, with open pastures behind you and the dark edge of the forest ahead, and before long the trees begin to frame your first big views towards Loch Lomond and the surrounding hills.

Soon the Way commits to the climb over the shoulder of Conic Hill – the first real ascent of the trail and the point where you cross the Highland Boundary Fault from Lowland to Highland Scotland. The path is well-made but steep in places, and you’ll want to pause often to look back at the islands of Loch Lomond laid out below like a map. The main route passes just below the summit, with an option to detour if you’d like the full 360° panorama, before descending quite sharply to the lochside village of Balmaha.

From Balmaha to Rowardennan the character of the day changes again, as the Way hugs the eastern shore of Loch Lomond. The path winds through birch and oak woodland, dips to shingle beaches, and rises for wider views across the water. It’s undulating in places but never difficult, and the scenery becomes steadily wilder as you head north, with Ben Lomond appearing more prominently with each mile.

The day finishes at Rowardennan, a small, quiet spot on the eastern shore of Loch Lomond. As the path leaves the woodland, you’ll see the loch open out beside you and the cluster of buildings around the pier ahead. It’s a straightforward and satisfying end to the day, with Ben Lomond rising above and good facilities close by — a calm, practical place to round off this stage before settling into your accommodation for the night.

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Day 4 Rowardennan to Inverarnan - 14.5 miles (23.5 kilometres)

Today begins by leaving Rowardennan on good forest tracks with occasional views back to Ben Lomond. It’s a steady, pleasant start to the day, with the trail winding through mixed woodland and gaining height gradually. After Ptarmigan Lodge the route splits: a rougher lochside path or a higher forest road. Both options lead you north through quiet, atmospheric woodland, with the lower path offering more rugged terrain and closer contact with the shoreline.

The trail eventually brings you to Inversnaid, a natural pause point beside the hotel and its impressive waterfalls. From here, the character of the walk changes completely. The path to Inverarnan is famously the most demanding stretch of the entire West Highland Way — a constantly twisting, rocky route that clings to the eastern shore of Loch Lomond. Expect steep little climbs, boulders, tree roots and narrow sections above the water. It’s slow going, but incredibly rewarding, with dramatic loch views and a real sense of adventure.

Despite the challenges, this is a section many walkers look back on fondly. The scenery is superb throughout, the woodland feels untouched, and every turn brings another glimpse of the loch or the high hills beyond. By the time the path leaves the shoreline and begins to ease out onto more open ground, you’ll know you’ve earned your finish.

Today’s section ends at Inverarnan, a very welcome stop after such a big day. It’s the perfect place to rest, refuel and reflect on one of the most iconic stages of the West Highland Way.

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Day 5 Inverarnan to Tyndrum - 12 miles (19 kilometres)

Today’s section is shorter and far gentler than the rugged lochside miles you’ve just completed. Leaving Inverarnan, the West Highland Way joins a broad track that runs through the lower part of Glen Falloch. The scenery feels instantly more open, with wide valley views, scattered pine trees and the sound of the river never far away. It’s a welcome change of pace after yesterday’s technical walking, and most people settle quickly back into a steady rhythm.

The trail follows good paths and tracks beside the River Falloch, gradually gaining height as the glen opens out. This is a historic route once used by drovers moving cattle south, and you still sense that long, natural line through the hills. The walking is straightforward and the views ahead grow more impressive with each step, with the high summits of the Southern Highlands coming steadily into view.

As you approach the outskirts of Tyndrum, the Way passes the little Lochan of the Lost Sword before skirting the remains of old lead-mining works that mark the village’s history. The path here meanders through woodland and alongside the river before leading you gently to the main road and into Tyndrum itself.

Today’s stage ends in Tyndrum, a small village with good facilities for walkers, including shops, cafés and accommodation. After the intensity of the Rowardennan–Inverarnan stretch, this feels like a natural breathing point in the journey — a comfortable stop before the trail begins to rise again towards Bridge of Orchy and Rannoch Moor.

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Day 6 Tyndrum to Bridge of Orchy / Inveroran - 7 / 9 miles (11 / 14.5 kilometres)

Today’s walk is one of the shorter and gentler stages of the West Highland Way, with around 7 miles of straightforward walking between Tyndrum and Bridge of Orchy. With no need for an early start, we recommend making the most of your morning in Tyndrum before continuing north.

You will have passed the Lochan of the Lost Sword as you approached Tyndrum on yesterday’s walk, but today’s shorter mileage gives you the chance to wander back and enjoy this pretty little lochan at a more leisurely pace.

Alternatively, spend some time discovering Tyndrum’s fascinating gold-mining history, browse the Green Welly Stop, or simply enjoy a relaxed coffee or early lunch at one of the village cafés before setting off. It is also a good opportunity to pick up any snacks and supplies you may need, as facilities become much more limited once you leave Tyndrum.

Leaving the village, the West Highland Way climbs gradually alongside the railway, with wide Highland views opening up almost immediately. The distinctive peak of Beinn Dorain draws your eye ahead for much of the walk, giving this section a wonderful sense of space and openness.

The route follows good tracks and sections of old military road through open countryside, making this one of the easier walking days of your holiday. With the shorter distance and generally straightforward terrain underfoot, there is plenty of time to slow the pace and simply enjoy the surrounding mountains.

Eventually, the trail descends towards Bridge of Orchy, a tiny Highland settlement beside the River Orchy. Facilities here are very limited, which is another reason we recommend making the most of your morning in Tyndrum rather than rushing to reach the end of today’s walk.

Although this stage officially ends at Bridge of Orchy, accommodation in the village itself is limited. Your overnight stay may therefore be around two miles further along the route, making this approximately a 9 mile / 14.5 km walking day. If so, simply continue along the West Highland Way to your accommodation, and the following morning you will pick up the trail exactly where you finished.

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Day 7 Bridge of Orchy / Inveroran to Kingshouse - 12 / 10 miles (19.5 / 16 km)

Today’s walk is one of the most iconic stretches of the West Highland Way, taking you across the open expanse of Rannoch Moor. Leaving Bridge of Orchy, the route rises gently on a clear path towards the low pass of Màm Carraigh. The short climb is never difficult and rewards you almost immediately with superb views back to Beinn Dorain and north over Loch Tulla. It’s a lovely, steady start to the day, with a real sense of moving deeper into the Highlands.

From the viewpoint cairn, the trail descends to the quiet hamlet of Inveroran, then continues to Forest Lodge, where the landscape opens dramatically. This marks the beginning of your crossing of Rannoch Moor — a broad, stony track stretching ahead between heather moorland and high, rugged mountains. The walking is straightforward, following the line of the old military road, but this is an exposed place in wild weather, so it’s worth being prepared. In good conditions, though, it’s one of the most memorable parts of the whole Way.

The route climbs gradually to reach the watershed, then begins the gentle descent towards Glencoe. The scenery here is vast and atmospheric, with scattered lochans, long views and the dramatic ridge line of the Black Mount never far from sight. It’s steady, flowing walking that allows you to settle into a rhythm and simply enjoy the landscape unfolding ahead.

As you near the end of the stage, the trail passes close to Blackrock Cottage at the foot of the ski centre before dropping towards the glen floor. A final short stretch brings you to the newly rebuilt Kingshouse Hotel, set against the dramatic backdrop of Buachaille Etive Mòr. It’s a striking, remote spot to finish the day — a classic Highland setting and a perfect pause before the climb over the Devil’s Staircase on the next stage.

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Day 8 Kingshouse to Kinlochleven - 9 miles (14.5 kilometres)

Today’s stage is one of the most memorable sections of the West Highland Way, combining dramatic Highland scenery with the trail’s highest point. Leaving the Kingshouse Hotel, the route begins gently on a good track below the slopes of Beinn a’ Chrùlaiste, with stunning views back towards Buachaille Etive Mòr — the iconic pyramid-shaped peak that dominates the entrance to Glen Coe.

The path soon leads you towards Altnafeadh, where the climb of the Devil’s Staircase begins. Despite its intimidating name, the ascent is well-graded, clear underfoot and far easier than many expect. A series of steady zigzags lift you into the high pass, and the views improve with every step. Looking back, you’ll see the length of Glen Coe stretching behind you; looking ahead, the Mamores and even the first glimpse of Ben Nevis begin to appear.

From the top — the highest point on the entire West Highland Way — the trail begins a long, enjoyable descent towards Kinlochleven. The terrain opens up into wide moorland with burns, rocky outcrops and big, sweeping views. The glen gradually narrows, and the path leads past the old industrial pipelines from the days of the aluminium works before dropping towards the river.

The final approach into Kinlochleven follows a good track through quiet woodland before emerging near the bridge and into the village. After the remote feel of the Devil’s Staircase, Kinlochleven offers a friendly and practical base, with shops, pubs and accommodation all close at hand. It’s a great place to rest and refuel before your final day towards Fort William.

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Day 9 Kinlochleven to Fort William - 15.5 miles (25 kilometres)

Your final day on the West Highland Way begins with a steady, steep climb out of Kinlochleven. The path rises quickly through birch woodland and onto an old military track, soon giving wide views back over the loch and the surrounding Mamores. Once you reach the higher ground, the climbing eases and the trail settles into a long, airy traverse through the quiet, isolated glen of Lairig Mor.

This upper section is wild, open and wonderfully atmospheric. The track is broad and clear, but crossed by a number of small burns — most easy to step over, some with footbridges. Only in very wet weather might one or two require care. The scenery is classic West Highland Way: big hills, long horizons and a sense of being far from roads and villages. It’s remote, but the walking is straightforward and the views ahead constantly unfold as you head west.

As you leave the Lairig Mor, the route begins to curve towards Glen Nevis, passing the remains of old shielings and steadings. The path then climbs gently into Nevis Forest before beginning a long, wooded descent. There are a few undulating stretches here, but the going is generally easy, and soon the first glimpses of Ben Nevis appear through the trees — a clear sign that the end of your journey is approaching.

The trail eventually drops to the Glen Nevis road, where you simply follow the quiet roadside path into Fort William. A final stroll through town brings you to the official finishing point at the statue on the High Street — a fitting end after nearly a hundred miles of Highland walking. Take your time, enjoy the moment, and celebrate completing one of the most iconic long-distance trails in the UK.

 

You will then be transferred back to Milngavie train station.

 

Fancy an extra night's stay in Fort William, perhaps to climb Ben Nevis or just look around Fort William, then book with us and we will transfer you on your departure day!

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What time does our luggage get transferred each day?

Luggage is usually collected in the morning after breakfast and delivered to your next accommodation before you arrive later in the day.

We include specific instructions in your holiday information so you know exactly what to do each morning.

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Do I need travel insurance?

Travel insurance is an important part of any walking holiday.

If you are travelling from overseas, it is a condition of travel that you have suitable insurance in place. Your policy must include cover for medical expenses, emergency treatment and repatriation (return home if required).

We also recommend that your insurance includes cover for cancellation and personal belongings, although this is not essential.

If you are based in the UK, travel insurance is not compulsory, but it is strongly recommended.

We may ask for evidence of your insurance cover, and any claims would need to be made directly with your insurer.

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When will I receive my holiday information? (Self Guided Holidays)

You will receive your full holiday information by email approximately four weeks before your departure, giving you plenty of time to go through everything ahead of your trip.

We don’t release this information earlier, as final details such as accommodation and transfer arrangements can occasionally change. This ensures everything you receive is accurate and up to date.

Your holiday pack will include:

• Details of your accommodation
• Transfer arrangements
• Trail Information, including places to eat, shops, cafés and points of interest along the route
• Information on taxis and public transport along your chosen route

A hard copy of your holiday pack, including your maps and luggage labels, will be posted to you shortly afterwards, so there’s no need to print anything yourself.

If you are coming from overseas, we deliver your holiday pack to your first night's accommodation, ready for you to collect at check-in. 

 

If there’s anything you’re unsure about once you’ve received your information, we’re only a phone call or email away.

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What are the payment terms and when is the balance due?

To secure your holiday, we ask for a £200 deposit per person at the time of booking. Please note that deposits are non-refundable and non-transferable.

After that, you’re welcome to pay the remaining balance in instalments at a pace that suits you, whether that’s in smaller regular payments or as a single amount.

The full balance is due six weeks before your departure date.

Many of our guests find this flexible approach makes it easier to plan and budget for their holiday. Once your booking is confirmed, we’ll also begin sending your pre-departure information so you can start looking forward to your trip.

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