West Highland Way - Intensive

Duration: 7 days
Trails: T2 trails
Distance: 15 - 20 km per day
Ascent per day: 500 - 1000 m ascent per day
> Complete the West Highland Way in 5 days
> Trek suitable for experienced hikers
> Accommodation before and after the trek included

The West Highland Way is Scotland's most popular long-distance walking trail, possibly because it runs through some of the most iconic landscapes of the Scottish Highlands. The route is 96 miles long and runs from Milngavie to Fort William. On the way, you will walk through moorland, mountain passes, glens, and some of the most breathtaking landscapes in Scotland.

The route is traditionally divided into 7 stages but you can arrange it depending on your fitness level and experience. We have prepared this 5-day trek for those trekkers who are experienced and are used to walking several hours a day. The average walking time on this 5-day tour is 9 hours per day, so make sure that you are prepared for such a challenge. This trek also includes accommodation in Glasgow and Fort William before and after your WHW adventure. We will take care of all the accommodation arrangements so you only have to worry about enjoying the trek!

Itinerary

Day
1

Arrival in Milngavie

Today you will travel to Milngavie. You will have an overnight stay here so that you can start the trip well rested.

West Highland Way Rooms (Milngavie)

Info
West Highland Way Rooms (Milngavie)
Day
2

Milngavie to Balmaha

Duration: 08:40 h
Distance: 31.1 km
Ascent: 500 m
Descent: 540 m
On this first day, the trail passes through the ancient earldom of Lennox, located between the Campsie Fells and Blane Water. Today you will follow a series of paths through beautiful rural scenery that will lead you to the outskirts of the small village of Drymen. After Drymen, the route begins to climb towards Conic Hill, which sits astride the Great Divide, which separates the highlands and lowlands of Scotland. The climb is fairly steep but from the top, you can enjoy great views over Loch Lomond. You will then descend through a steep path towards Balmaha, a small village on the shores of bonnie Loch Lomond.

Oak Tree Inn (Balmaha)

Info
Oak Tree Inn (Balmaha)
Day
3

Balmaha to Inverarnan

Duration: 10:00 h
Distance: 35.4 km
Ascent: 450 m
Descent: 450 m
Today's trail takes you through the Loch Lomond shore, natural forest, and headlands. On the way, you will face numerous short steep climbs surrounded by the outstanding scenery between Balmaha and Rowardennan. After Rowardennan, the WHW follows a series of forestry roads and climbs high up above Loch Lomond, from where you can enjoy fantastic views over the lake and towards the peaks of the Arrochar Alps. The path towards Inversnaid turns narrower and more undulating. After Doune Bothy the path from Ardleish to Inverarnan improves. Beinglas Farm marks the end of your day. Leave the way and follow the signs for Inverarnan.

The Drovers Inn (Inverarnan)

Info
The Drovers Inn (Inverarnan)
See entire itinerary

Included

  • Accommodation

    We will arrange your accommodation on the West Highland Way in hotels, inns, and guesthouses. Accommodation will be private in single, double or twin rooms and with en-suite bathroom where possible.

  • Full travel guide

    We will send you on your way with a digital travel guide which includes a route description, interactive West Highland Way hiking maps, and the most important information applicable to your trek.

  • Baggage Transfer

    This trek includes the transfer of your luggage throughout the entire West Highland Way trek. Your bags will be picked up every morning from the hotel lobby and will be driven to your next next accommodation. Baggage transfers allow you to travel lighter during the day and enjoy the walk in a more relaxed manner.

  • Breakfast

    Breakfast is, if possible, included in this trek and it will be provided every morning at your accommodation.

Excluded

  • Traveling to and from

    You have to make your own way to the starting point. The total amount does not include personal transport. This also applies to any transport from the end point of your trail.

  • Transfers

    Should you need any form of (public) transport on location, this is not part of the trekking package. This includes the use of taxi, bus, cable cars, gondolas etc.

  • Travel Insurance

    Your international travel insurance is your own responsibility. Discuss your itinerary with the insurance company before your trek.

  • Lunch and Dinner

    Breakfast is, if possible, included in the price of the trek. You can get lunch and dinner at the shops, hotels, and restaurants along the way.

FAQ

  • How Do I Get to the Start of the West Highland Way?

  • Is The West Highland Way For Me?

  • Tips for Hiking the West Highland Way

How to Book

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Justa Atema
Justa Atema

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