West Highland Way – Scotland

May to September
* Several itineraries available *

The Scottish Highlands on foot

Like its whisky, Scotland is a connoisseur’s delight, a bewitching blend of breathtaking scenery and urban sophistication. This Celtic nation has a rich history deeply marked by the clan wars, many vestiges of which can still be seen today.

It’s a country that not only boasts a varied and important architectural heritage, but also a rich artistic and cultural scene.
It’s also a country of grandiose landscapes, overwhelmed by the immensity and beauty of its natural environment.

West Highland Way

This 8-day, 154 km hike is on the West Highland Way, described as the finest long-distance footpath in Scotland, and takes in spectacular scenery. High mountains, calm lakes and tumultuous rivers combine to give us a unique spectacle of nature. Along the way we visit places like Mugdock Country Park, Dumgoyne Distillery, Loch Lomond, Trossachs National Park and many more.

We’ll stay in typical Scottish inns and sample local delicacies.
Our final destination is Fort William, where we meet Ben Nevis, the highest peak in the British Isles. From Fort William, we travel by train to Edinburgh, recognized as one of the world’s most beautiful and interesting cities to visit. It’s packed with iconic landmarks, world-renowned festivals and exciting activities.

Reading recommendation

Historical novel by Susan Fletcher,

A PYRE UNDER THE SNOW

The story takes place in 17th-century Scotland, mainly in the Highlands. King William of Orange holds power, much to the despair of the Jacobites, who accuse him of usurpation and wish to see James, heir to the Stuart throne. It is in this politico-religious turmoil that the massacre at Glencoe, home of the Macdonald clan, takes place, witnessed by Corrag. Reading this novel will give you a taste of the natural beauty of the Highlands. Available at the Gatineau Library.

See a 4 min video on the WHW:

Your guides and companions for this adventure

This trip is available with or without a guide. Our local agency will take care of all the details.

Suggested itinerary

This itinerary is a suggested route to take advantage of the West Highland Way. Additional nights can be added, for example in Kinghouse and Fort William. From Fort William it’s possible to climb Ben Nevis (3-5 hours for the ascent and 2-3 for the descent), the highest mountain in the UK.

As long as you’re in Scotland, it’s well worth taking the time to visit Glasgow and Edinburgh.

Regular itinerary

Day 1: Milngavie – Drymen (6h/19km)

An easy day in the countryside, where you’ll discover the Scotland of legends. Visit to Glengoyne Distillery.
Ascent: +100m, -100m

Day 2: Drymen – Rowardennan (6h/24km)

Hike through Loch Lemond Park with its interesting wildlife and magnificent panoramas.
Ascent: +300m, -300m

Day 3: Rowardennan – Inverarnan (6h/22km)

We continue along the flanks of Loch Lemond to a high vantage point overlooking the Loch and the Arrochar Alps.
Ascent: +250m, – 250m

Day 4: Inverarnan – Tyndrum (6h/20km)

Hike past waterfalls and forests before returning to the valley and fields surrounded by magnificent scenery.
Difference in altitude: +300m, -250m

Day 5: Tyndrum – Inveroran (5h/16km)

Valley to Bridge of Orchy. Then a fairly demanding climb, but with some of the best views around.
Ascent: +350m, -300m

Day 6: Inveroran – Kingshouse (5h/16km)

A day in the Rannoch Moor region, a mountainous area with panoramic views of isolated wilderness. Ascent: +400m, -400m

Day 7: Kingshouse – Kinlochieven (5h/14km)

Passage over the highest peak of the hike, Devil’s Staircase at 550m. View over western Scotland.
Ascent: +450m, -500m

Day 8: Kinlochieven – Fort William (6h/23km)

Passage through the heart of the Munros (mountains over 3,000 feet high) and Ben Nevis, GB’s highest peak.
Ascent: +200m – 200m

Price

*** Contact jean@inspirationsvoyage.com or 819-771-6271 for further information

INCLUDES:

– All ground transfers
– Luggage transport
– Accommodation in lodges and hotels along the route
– All breakfasts
– All taxes

NOT INCLUDED:
– International flights
– Lunches and dinners
– Personal equipment (backpacks, walking sticks, etc.)
– Insurance, vaccinations
– Extraordinary expenses, such as medical evacuation or trip extension
– Tips

Comments from a Quebec hiker

Here’s what another of our customers had to say after hiking the West Highland Way:

The people, farmers and innkeepers, VERY warm and welcoming
The baggage transport service is impeccable, as are all the services, which are very reliable.
A very safe and well-marked route, with many sublime views of Scotland, including Loch Lomond, a large and beautiful lake bordered by immense valleys.
Absolutely magnificent landscapes, greener than life!
The climate is cool and sometimes quite hot (in July…), so there’s something for everyone!
You don’t need much specialized equipment, just a good pair of boots, a daypack, a good Gortex rain jacket and a small amount of technical clothing.
You can wash your clothes a few times during the trip.
Great local beers and it’s Scotch-Whisky country!
So we combine pleasure with enjoyment!
The food in the restaurants is quite varied, and the fish is delicious.
In particular, they have over a hundred varieties of “Artic Char” (lake char…).