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Classic Walks of Scotland

Classic Walks of Scotland

From $ 2,930 AUD

Description

Experience some of Scotland’s most iconic walks, like the West Highland Way and the Great Glen Way, and take on Ben Nevis – the highest peak in Scotland and the entire United Kingdom – with two experts by your side. Fort William, located on the shores of Loch Linnhe, is famous for being the gateway to Ben Nevis and will be your home away from home on this trip. Trek through an ever-changing landscape, rich in Scottish culture and dramatic scenery. After each active day, unwind in a charming Scottish town with atmospheric pubs to celebrate!

Trip Name
Classic Walks of Scotland
Last Updated
1970-01-01
Days
6
Capacity
14
Highlights
  • Conquer Ben Nevis, the crown jewel of Scottish hikes, with the support of qualified mountain guides who will offer encouragement and help you ascend at your own pace.
  • Experience two of Scotland’s iconic long-distance trails – the West Highland Way with its famous Devil’s Staircase, and a more leisurely walk along the scenic Great Glen Way.
  • Feel secure as an experienced and qualified guide leads you through Scotland’s stunning landscapes on some of its most iconic walks.
  • Unpack once, settle in, and enjoy a warm welcome back at the end of each day in Fort William – this village is your base for the entire trip.
  • Travel by public transport throughout the trip, offering a local experience and avoiding queues. Plus, Fort William is easily reachable by train from major UK cities.

Itinerary

ITINERARY CHANGES Our itineraries are updated regularly throughout the year based on customer feedback and to reflect the current situation in each destination. The information included in this Essential Trip Information may therefore differ from when you first booked your trip. It's important that you review this information prior to travel so that you have the latest updates. Due to weather, local conditions, transport schedules, public holidays, political unrest or other factors, further changes may be necessary to your itinerary once in-country. Your group leader or local representative will keep you up to date with any such changes once your trip is underway and has the authority to amend or cancel any part of the trip itinerary if deemed necessary due to safety concerns. , OPTIONAL ACTIVITIES A selection of optional activities that have been popular with past travellers are listed in the day-to-day itinerary. This isn't an exhaustive list and should be used as a guide only for some of what might be available. Prices are approximate, are for entrance fees only, and don’t include transport to and from the sites or local guides unless indicated. All activities are subject to availability, and maybe on a join-in basis. It may not be possible to do all the activities listed in the time available at each destination, so some pre-planning for what you are most interested in is advised. When it's recommended that travellers pre-book these activities, look for a note in the Special Information section of the day-to-day itinerary. For most, they can either be organised independently on the day, or let your group leader or local representative know you are interested at the Welcome Meeting and they can assist. Where activities are considered medium or high risk, we work with operators whose safety and credentials we have sighted and assessed. Although it is possible that you may find the same activity cheaper with another operator on the ground, we cannot vouch for the safety or quality of that operator. Medium and high-risk activities not listed above have not been assessed by us and as such our staff and group leader or local representative are unable to assist you with organising these activities. Activities that contravene our Responsible Travel policies are also not listed. Please remember that the decision to partake in any activity not listed is at your own discretion and risk.

Day 1 - Fort William
Welcome to Scotland! Your adventure begins in Fort William, Scotland’s adventure hub nestled beneath Ben Nevis, Britain’s highest peak. This busy Highland town is steeped in history, surrounded by rugged landscapes, and serves as the gateway to some of Scotland’s most spectacular hiking routes. With its lively atmosphere, traditional pubs and breathtaking scenery, Fort William is the perfect base for your journey. You’ll have a welcome meeting this afternoon at 3 pm, where you'll meet your local leader and fellow travellers before settling into your home for the next five nights. To kick things off, enjoy a gentle warm-up hike, maybe to a ruined castle steeped in history on a legendary battle site.
Day 2 - Fort William
This morning, take a private transfer to Glencoe, where you’ll embark on a stunning hike along the West Highland Way, tackling the iconic Devil’s Staircase on the route to Kinlochleven. The Devil’s Staircase got its name from soldiers who built the military road in the 18th century under General Wade. As you ascend, you’ll quickly understand the origin of its name – the steep, zigzagging climb is a challenge, but the reward is breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding mountains. Keep an eye out for red deer roaming the hills! After your hike, a short transfer will bring you back to Fort William for a well-earned evening of relaxation.
Day 3 - Fort William
After a hearty breakfast, take a short transfer back to the end of yesterday's hike, Kinlochleven. This small, rural village is tucked away at the eastern end of Loch Leven, framed by rugged mountain scenery. Originally built as a settlement for workers during the construction of the Blackwater Dam, it has since transformed into a popular base for hikers and outdoor enthusiasts. From here, set off on the final stage of the West Highland Way, crossing a mountain pass and winding through a picturesque valley as you make your way back to Fort William. This section marks the official end of the famous trail and the starting point of the Great Glen Way, which you’ll explore tomorrow. In the evening, you have the option to join your fellow travellers for dinner and reflect on the day’s adventures.
Day 4 - Fort William
Today is an easier day (in terms of very little elevation gain), which could be used as a rest day for tired legs! You’ll catch a train from Fort William to Glenfinnan. Then, you’ll begin your hike along the Glenfinnan Viaduct Trail – you might recognise this viaduct from the Harry Potter films. If you’re lucky, you might even see the famous Jacobite Steam Train, which was used as the Hogwarts Express in the films, passing by. Take in the panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and Loch Shiel. You’ll visit the Bonnie Prince Charlie Monument, also known as the ‘lone Highlander’ – a moving tribute to those who died fighting in the Jacobite Rising of 1745. After your day of hiking and exploring, you’ll take a local train back to Fort William.
Day 5 - Fort William
Today is the pinnacle of your Scottish adventure, with the ascent of the mighty Ben Nevis, the highest peak in the entire United Kingdom! The name Ben Nevis, meaning ‘mountain with its head in the clouds’ in ancient Gaelic, perfectly reflects its towering height. This hike is a bucket-list challenge for adventurers from around the world. A short transfer takes you to the start of your hike and from sea level, you’ll follow a rugged trail that leads to the summit at 1345 m. It’s a demanding full day in the mountains at 7 to 10 hours, requiring excellent physical preparation and determination to reach the top. You’ll be accompanied by two expert guides who will provide support, motivation and advice throughout the climb and descent. After conquering this monumental peak, a private transfer will bring you back to your accommodation, where you can unwind and savour the sense of accomplishment.
Day 6 - Fort William
After breakfast, set out for a final hike with stunning views of Ben Nevis and the surrounding landscapes. Starting from your accommodation, you’ll hike into Glen Nevis, ascending to the summit of Cow Hill. Your efforts will be rewarded with spectacular panoramic views of Glen Nevis, the surrounding peaks, and across Fort William to Loch Linnhe and beyond. This is the perfect spot to reflect on your incredible week of hiking in Scotland. A short, steep descent completes the circuit, bringing you back to Fort William by lunchtime. The trip concludes at 1 pm in Fort William town centre. From there, you’ll have time to catch a bus to Inverness or a train south to Glasgow. If you’d like to extend your stay in Scotland, consider adding another adventure in Orkney or the Shetland Islands – just speak to your booking agent in advance.

Trip Dates

StartEndPrice FromRoom Type
18-05-202623-05-2026AUD $ 3,530-
01-06-202606-06-2026AUD $ 3,240-
22-06-202627-06-2026AUD $ 2,930-
29-06-202604-07-2026AUD $ 3,085-
20-07-202625-07-2026AUD $ 3,090-
03-08-202608-08-2026AUD $ 3,030-
17-08-202622-08-2026AUD $ 3,030-
14-09-202619-09-2026AUD $ 3,240-
28-09-202603-10-2026AUD $ 3,030-
17-05-202722-05-2027AUD $ 3,145-
31-05-202705-06-2027AUD $ 3,240-
14-06-202719-06-2027AUD $ 3,240-
28-06-202703-07-2027AUD $ 3,240-
19-07-202724-07-2027AUD $ 3,145-
02-08-202707-08-2027AUD $ 3,145-
16-08-202721-08-2027AUD $ 3,145-
13-09-202718-09-2027AUD $ 3,145-
27-09-202702-10-2027AUD $ 3,145-

Accommodation

Guesthouse (5 nights)

Transport

Walking, public bus, train, taxi

Map