The Great Glen Way runs from Fort William, 127km (79 miles) on the shore of Loch Linnhe north-eastwards, following the Great Glen, to Inverness. It is a fabulous walking holiday in some of Scotland’s most wonderful scenery and passes some great landmarks; Castle Urquhart being one of Scotland’s most photographed castles which overlooks Loch Ness. 

The route begins at the Old Fort in Fort William in the shadow of Ben Nevis, Britain's highest mountain.  From here it skirts the shores of Loch Linnhe to join the historic Caledonian Canal at Corpach.

From Corpach, you journey along Scotland's longest Glen and greatest geological fault. The canal towpath is followed during the beginning of the way, passing the spectacular Neptune's Staircase and the awesome aqueduct.

The route continues to follow the major natural fault line of the Great Glen which divides Scotland from coast to coast. The route keeps to low levels and offers a good introduction to the Highlands and to long distance walking. It runs along the complete lengths of Loch Linnhe, Loch Oich and the forests above Loch Ness. 

Well-waymarked and following clear paths and tracks, the Great Glen Way provides straightforward walking throughout. The section through the forests above Loch Ness does have some steep climbs. For most walkers the final stage is the main challenge, due to the distance from Drumnadrochit and Inverness. Then after tracing the banks of the River Ness you finally reach the official end point at the picturesque Inverness Castle.

Grade: Easy/Moderate