Intrepid Vacations: Classic Walks of Scotland

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. This afternoon at 3 PM, you'll meet your guide and fellow travelers for a welcome briefing before settling into your home for the next five nights. To kick things off, enjoy a gentle warm-up hike, perhaps to a ruined castle steeped in history on a legendary battle site.


Day 2 The Devil's Staircase
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.
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Day 3 West Highland Way
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 travelers for dinner and reflect on the day’s adventure.
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Day 4 Great Glen Way
An easier day today (in terms of very little elevation gain), which could be used as a rest day for tired legs! Hike the first stage of the Great Glen Way, a long-distance route stretching from Fort William to Inverness, that winds through the stunning Great Glen in the heart of the Scottish Highlands. Starting from your accommodation, you’ll follow the scenic banks of the Caledonian Canal, a 19th-century man-made waterway that connects east and west Scotland. The route takes you to the charming settlement of Gairlochy, followed by a peaceful country lane to the Commando Memorial, where you’ll be treated to breathtaking views of the Ben Nevis mountain range. The hike concludes in the quaint village of Spean Bridge, known for its 18th-century bridge over the Spean River, and its historical significance, particularly in relation to the Jacobite rising. From here you’ll catch a local train or bus back to Fort William.
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Day 5 Ben Nevis
Today is the pinnacle of your Scottish adventure, with the ascent of the mighty Ben Nevis, the highest peak in Scotland and 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 us to the start of our hike and from sea level, you’ll follow a rugged trail that leads to the summit at 1345 meters. It’s a demanding full day in the mountains, (7-10 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 savor the sense of accomplishment.
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Day 6 Cow Hill
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 1pm in Fort William town centre, and 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.
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