Great Glen Way

Starting in the shadow of Ben Nevis, the UK’s highest mountain, the Great Glen Way traverses the length of Scotland’s longest glen, ending in the fine city of Inverness, capital of the Highlands.

Opened in 2002, the Great Glen Way runs 74 miles from the Atlantic to the North Sea along the geological fault line that is the Great Glen. The route takes in the fabulous scenery of the surrounding lochs and mountains, as well as numerous sites of historic and cultural interest. It is said St Columba travelled this way in the sixth century, bringing Christianity to the Picts of the Highlands.

A relatively easy walk, much of the route runs alongside the shores of Loch Lochy, Loch Oich and the mighty Loch Ness, the UK’s largest lake by volume. Other stretches use the towpath of the Caledonian Canal, built in the 19th century to allow vessels to pass between the west and east coasts. Just north of Fort William you’ll see the engineering marvel of Neptune’s Staircase, a “staircase lock” comprising eight connected locks.

The northerly part of the walk offers opportunities to cross higher ground and take in far reaching views of the surrounding hills. At Drumnadrochit, the ruins of the 13th century Urquhart Castle stand impressively on the shoreline of Loch Ness, a quintessential highland scene.