The 73 mile (117 km) Great
Glen Way begins at Fort William in the shadow of Scotland’s
highest peak, mighty Ben Nevis.The Great Glen was formed
by a massive glacier during the last ice age and traverses
Scotland from west to east. From Loch Linnhe on the Atlantic
coast the route follows tree lined canal towpaths, loch
shore paths, forestry tracks and crosses over the Ness Islands
to the finishing point at the Inverness Castle on the Beauly
Firth. Although mostly a low-level walk there are some challenging
sections offering glorious views over Loch Ness. Follow
the history of this turbulent region as the Way passes castles
and forts, scenes of some of the Scotland’s bloodiest
battles.
DAY 1:
Arrive at Fort William, overnight
DAY 2: Fort
William to Gairlochy 12ml (19km)
It is an easy walk past ruined Inverlochy Castle to reach
Banavie and the seven locks of Neptune’s Staircase.
Join the Caledonian Canal towpath, enjoy wonderful views
of Ben Nevis and the Grey Corries, spot birds and wildlife
and continue to Gairlochy.
DAY 3: Gairlochy
to South Laggan 14ml(22.5km)
Walk to Clunes and join the lochside forest trail to Laggan
Locks. Perhaps stop for a refreshment at the Eagle, the
Inn on the Water, a beautifully converted Dutch barge. Just
a short walk now to the accommodation at South Laggan.
DAY 4: South
Laggan to Fort Augustus 10.5ml(17km)
A pleasant easy walk along the east side of Loch Oich to
Oich Bridge. From there follow the Caledonian Canal towpath
into the attractive village of Fort Augusutus where you
can watch the boats descending the staircase of six locks
into Loch Ness.
DAY 5: Fort
Augustus to Invermoriston 8ml(13km)
Perhaps take a morning cruise on Loch Ness before joining
the forest trails to Invermoriston. Enjoy the lovely views
as you walk through the forest high above Loch Ness.
DAY 6: Invermoriston to Drumnadrochit
14ml(22km)
Mostly forest trail walking today until the last stretch
which follows the minor road from Gortaig. A steep descent
leads to the busy lochside village of Drumnadrochit.
DAY 7: Drumnadrochit to Inverness 18ml(29km)
Quite a steep climb out of the village: continue through
open moorland along the edge of Craig Leach Forest and enjoy
spectacular views over the Beauly Firth on the descent to
Invernesss. Follow the River Ness into the town and the
completion of the walk at Inverness Castle.
DAY 8:
Depart from Inverness after breakfast.
2008 tour price:
£320.00 per person sharing /
minimum 2 people
£100.00 single supplement
Tour includes
*6 Days walking / 7 Nights accommodation
*Accommodation in quality B&Bs, guest houses, inns and
hotels in rooms with shower/wc (where available)
*Full Scottish breakfast
*Door to door luggage transport
*Rucksac Reader guide book with map
*Location details for each accommodation
*Travel information to the start and from the finish of
the walk
*Suggested equipment list
*Emergency support
2008 Tour Dates - any day
start from April to October
Moderate