Walking the West Highland Way: A 5-Day Adventure Through Scotland’s Breathtaking Highlands

Walking the West Highland Way is one of the best ways to experience the raw, untamed beauty of Scotland’s Highlands. This iconic long-distance hiking trail stretches 96 miles (154 km) from the quiet town of Milngavie (pronounced “Mul-guy”), just outside Glasgow, to Fort William, nestled beneath the towering peak of Ben Nevis — the UK’s highest mountain.

The route is well-marked and gradually transitions from gentle farmland and peaceful lochs to remote glens and dramatic mountain scenery, offering a true taste of Scotland’s wild landscapes without being too difficult to access. Read on for my detailed West Highland Way itinerary — day-by-day highlights, hiking tips, and what to expect along the trail.

👉 Need help getting ready? Don’t miss my West Highland Way Packing List — it’s full of practical tips and must-have gear!

The West Highland Way Route

This iconic long-distance trail passes through some beautiful areas of the both the Scottish Lowlands and Highlands such as Glencoe and Bridge of Orchy. You’ll walk though dappled woodlands and exposed mountain passes, past picturesque lochs and over moorlands. There are several options for walking the West Highland Way. Most people opt for South to North, but some choose to do the walk in reverse from North to South. You can carry tents with you and camp, or do what we did and stay in local BnBs along the route (make sure to book in advance) – also a great option for trying out some local food!

How Long Does it Take to Walk the West Highland Way

We chose to do the 96 miles in 5 days, but that was pretty intense and if I did it again I’d maybe add in an extra night somewhere. If you’re on a longer holiday it could be nice to spend more than one night at some of the stopping points. If you’re pressed for time you can choose to walk just one section.

Is Walking the West Highland Way Difficult?

You do need to be in decent shape to walk the West Highland Way, but it is a beginner trek. Walking the West Highland Way does not require any technical knowledge. You can choose to either carry a backpack or opt to have your luggage transferred between stops and just carry a day bag.

Navigating the West Highland Way

The West Highland Way route is generally easy to follow. I do recommend packing a physical map and also downloading a route map – Maps.me is good for offline maps. You’ll also likely meet other walkers along the way.

5-Day Itinerary for walking the West Highland Way, Scotland

Day 1: Milngavie to Balmaha (18.5 miles/29.75 km)

The West Highland Way begins in Milngavie, a small town just north of Glasgow. You can get here easily by train or bus. Look for the official West Highland Way obelisk in the town centre — it marks the start of your trek. This first stretch, from Milngavie to Balmaha, is one of the gentlest sections of the West Highland Way, making it a perfect warm-up. You’ll pass through peaceful woodlands, scenic farmland, and quiet countryside paths.

Along the way, consider a detour to the Glengoyne Distillery, one of Scotland’s most picturesque whisky producers. The day ends in Balmaha, a charming village on the eastern shore of Loch Lomond, with stunning views. Alternatively, spend the night in Drymen if you prefer a shorter first day and a slightly longer walk tomorrow. We did this and stayed in The Winnock Hotel, a beautiful historic building.

Day 2: Balmaha to Inversnaid (21.5 miles/34.5 km)

Leaving Balmaha, the West Highland Way hugs the eastern shore of Loch Lomond, offering some of the most scenic — and deceptively challenging — terrain on the trail. Although the elevation gain is minimal, don’t underestimate this section. The narrow path twists around tree roots, jagged rocks, and steep banks, which can become slippery in wet weather. Watch your footing, and take your time.

As you approach Inversnaid, you’ll pass a picturesque waterfall that signals you’re nearly there. Many hikers choose to stay at the Inversnaid Bunkhouse, known for its cosy atmosphere and hearty home-cooked meals.

If you’d prefer to break up this demanding stretch, consider spending a night in Rowardennan, a peaceful spot with accommodation options like the Rowardennan Youth Hostel right on the loch.

Day 3: Inversnaid to Bridge of Orchy (22.5 miles/36 km)

This is one of the longest and most varied days on the West Highland Way, but also one of the most rewarding. We walked the West Highland Way in May and this part of the route was covered in bluebells — a truly magical sight.

As you leave Inversnaid, the scenery begins to shift. You’ll gradually transition from the dense loch-side woodlands into more open landscapes. The trail becomes noticeably hillier, and the views more dramatic, as you edge closer to the Scottish Highlands.

After passing through Crianlarich and Tyndrum, the terrain becomes wilder and more remote. This is where the true Highland scenery begins to emerge. You’ll walk past rivers, through quiet glens, and beneath towering peaks. The sense of isolation deepens as you continue toward Bridge of Orchy, and the vast Rannoch Moor begins to appear in the distance — a hauntingly beautiful stretch of wilderness that feels untouched by time.

Bridge of Orchy itself is tiny but charming, often used by hikers to rest and refuel. There are several accommodation options here, from cosy inns to hostels — a welcome sight after covering nearly 23 miles in a day.

Spend the night in a Glamping Hut at By The Way Campsite, or treat yourself to the Bridge of Orchy Hotel.

Day 4: Bridge of Orchy to Kinlochleven (18.5 miles/29.75 km)

This stage of the West Highland Way is where the trail becomes truly breathtaking — and more physically demanding. The climbs are steeper, the terrain more rugged, and the scenery utterly unforgettable.

From Bridge of Orchy, the trail ascends steadily, with expansive views over the surrounding glens and lochs. Keep an eye out for the iconic Buachaille Etive Mòr, one of Scotland’s most photographed mountains, which rises dramatically on the horizon as you approach Glen Coe.

About halfway through the day, you’ll reach the historic Kingshouse Hotel & Bunkhouse, a legendary spot for weary hikers. Stop here for lunch — their lounge offers panoramic views across the glen, and you might even spot some red deer nearby.

Next comes the famous Devil’s Staircase — a switchback climb that, despite its ominous name, is more manageable than it sounds. Take your time, and you’ll be rewarded with one of the most spectacular views on the entire route: a sweeping vista over Glen Coe and the surrounding mountains.

From the summit, it’s a long, gradual descent into Kinlochleven, a small town nestled between the hills and a popular overnight stop. This stretch is easier on the legs and offers a quiet, reflective end to the day’s dramatic scenery.

This was my favourite day of the trek — a perfect blend of challenge, natural beauty, and Highland magic. We spent the night at the Blackwater Glamping Pods.

Day 5: Kinlochleven to Fort William (15 miles/24 km)

The final stretch of the West Highland Way may be the shortest distance-wise, but don’t let that fool you — it’s still a challenge, especially after four full days of hiking.

You’ll begin the day with a steep ascent out of Kinlochleven, climbing through a rocky path surrounded by wild Highland scenery. The effort is well worth it. As you gain elevation, you’ll be rewarded with sweeping views back over Loch Leven and ahead towards the dramatic peaks of the Nevis Range.

The trail then levels out, crossing the remote and open expanse of the Lairigmor (the “Great Pass”), a windswept valley that feels beautifully wild and desolate. Eventually, you’ll begin the long descent towards Fort William. While downhill hiking sounds easier, it can be tough on tired legs — especially your thighs and knees — so take it steady.

One of the most exciting moments of the day is when Ben Nevis, the highest mountain in the UK, comes into view. It’s a powerful sign that you’re nearing the end of your journey.

The official finish line of the West Highland Way is in the centre of Fort William, marked by a bronze statue of a weary hiker resting on a bench beneath an archway. Don’t forget to stop for your victory photo — you’ve earned it!

Whether you’re celebrating with a pint, a hot shower, or a well-deserved rest, completing the West Highland Way is an achievement you’ll never forget.

Accommodation Options Along the West Highland Way

Practical Guidance for the West Highland Way

What is the best time of year to do the West Highland Way?

The best time of year for most people to walk the West Highland Way is between April and October. Spring is a beautiful time to walk the West Highland Way as parts of the route will be carpeted in wildflowers. Summer is a bit warmer – maybe even warm enough for a dip in Loch Lomond! Note that accommodation will be busier during the Easter and Summer holidays. The weather in Scotland is variable and it can rain at any time of year.

Where does the West Highland Way Start?

If you want to walk the full West Highland Way route you’ll need to start in either Milngavie (South to North) or Fort William (North to South).

Transport to and from the West Highland Way

Milngavie is very close to Glasgow airport and you can take an Uber or you can catch the airport shuttle bus into Glasgow city centre and then a train. Trains run from Glasgow Queen Street and Glasgow Central stations to Milngavie every 15 minutes. The journey only takes about 20 minutes and does not cost much.

Fort William is on the train line so you can catch a train back to Glasgow or all the way down to London. The Caledonian Sleeper is a night train to London. There are also buses from Fort William to Glasgow.

How Long is the West Highland Way?

The West Highland Way is 96 miles (154km). The rugged terrain may make it feel like further!

How Long Does the West Highland Way Take?

This will depend on how much time you have available and your level of fitness. I’d recommend 5-7 days, or longer if you’d like some rest days to explore more.

Can You Cycle the West Highland Way?

It is possible to cycle the West Highland Way but note that the route was designed for walkers. There will be sections where cyclists need to dismount and carry their bikes. It’s best to use a bike designed for off-road cycling.

Further Exploring: What Else to Do in Scotland

If you’re planning a longer trip to Scotland, there are plenty of other incredible destinations to explore. From the dramatic peaks of the Highlands and the remote beauty of the Isle of Skye to the vibrant culture of Edinburgh and Glasgow, Scotland offers a rich tapestry of history, nature, and adventure. Be sure to check out my other posts about travelling in Scotland for more inspiration, tips, and detailed guides on must-see places.

No matter where your journey takes you in Scotland, you’re bound to be captivated by its breathtaking landscapes, deep-rooted culture, and warm hospitality. Safe travels, and don’t forget to pack your sense of adventure!

👉 Find cheap flights to Scotland here.

Practical Guidance for Scotland

Hopefully this post will have inspired you to book a trip to Scotland. I’ve also included some useful information for Scotland in general below. If you plan all the boring stuff in advance you can relax and enjoy your trip more!

How to Get to Scotland & Where to Find Cheap Flights

Scotland is well connected to the rest of the world, with major international airports in Edinburgh (EDI), Glasgow (GLA), and Aberdeen (ABZ). Most international travellers arrive via Edinburgh or Glasgow, which have frequent flights from cities across Europe, North America, and beyond. From these hubs, it’s easy to access the rest of Scotland by train, bus, rental car, or domestic flights.

To find cheap flights to Scotland, use comparison tools like Skyscanner. Booking several months in advance or flying mid-week often results in better prices—especially if you’re travelling outside of peak summer months (June to August). Budget airlines like easyJet, Ryanair, and Jet2 also offer competitive fares from various European cities, so keep an eye out for deals and flash sales.

👉 Find cheap flights to Scotland here.

Transport from Glasgow airport to Milngavie (West Highland Way Starting Point)

Arriving to a new airport can feel overwhelming, especially if you’ve just come off a long haul flight. I recommend planning in advance for ease and so that you feel safe.

Personally, I like to book an airport pickup in advance with Welcome Pickups. You prepay when you book at a flat rate that matches the local standard fare. The advantage of Welcome Pickups over rideshare apps is that there is no surge pricing. The Welcome Pickups app is also incredibly easy to use and I was able to chat to my driver via the app to coordinate a meeting spot. Welcome Pickups operate in lots of different countries worldwide. You can sign up here.

Money in Scotland (UK): (GBP)

If you’re visiting Scotland you’ll need British Pound Sterling (GBP). To get GBP at the best rates, I highly recommend getting a WISE card before you go. This allows you to convert money into GBP (or any other currency!) at the best rates and then spend on your Wise card as though it were a local bank card or withdraw cash in Scotland without hidden fees. Wise is a UK-based financial services company (available in most countries worldwide) and is highly regulated in the various regions it operates in (in the UK it is authorised by the Financial Conduct Authority).

Get your WISE card here.

SIM Card and Data for Scotland

There are two main options for getting a SIM card and data to use in Scotland:

Option 1: eSIM with Airalo

The main advantages of purchasing an eSIM via Airalo (enter the referral code ROWAN1271 for a discount) are:

• you do not need to insert a physical SIM card, so you can keep your home country SIM in your phone
• you can get a multi-country eSIM rather than having to get a new one each time you go to a new country
• you can download the eSim before you leave your home country, meaning that you will have data immediately on arrival. This gives you peace of mind and is perfect for using Google Maps and rideshare apps etc.
• You can top up your data allowance via the app

Option 2: Buy a local physical SIM card

The main advantages of purchasing a local SIM card are:

• Local SIM cards generally offer better rates. You can often (depending on the country) get a lot more data for a lower price.
• You will get a local phone number which is better for making local calls / text messages

Personally I think Airalo is the best for short holidays or if you are only spending a short time in each country. If you’re staying for a longer time, or if like me you use a lot of data, a local physical SIM card may be better.

Get your Airalo eSIM here. Enter the referral code ROWAN1271 for a discount.

Best Travel Insurance Providers for Scotland

As well as planning your Your West Highland Way Packing List, you should also make sure you have travel insurance for the duration of the trip. Here are two excellent travel insurance providers that I highly recommend for solo travellers or families visiting Scotland:

1. Heymondo Travel Insurance

I personally use Heymondo for all my trips, and it’s one of the easiest and most reliable travel insurance options I’ve found. Their app is incredibly user-friendly, allowing you to access your policy, make claims, and contact support directly from your phone. Heymondo offers excellent coverage, including medical emergencies, trip cancellations, lost baggage, and more. I highly recommend it for anyone planning to visit Scotland.

Why choose Heymondo?

• Comprehensive coverage: Offers medical, cancellation, and baggage coverage.
• User-friendly app: Manage your policy easily from anywhere.
• Global assistance: 24/7 emergency assistance available.

👉 Purchase Heymondo travel insurance.

2. SafetyWing Nomad Insurance

For digital nomads, long-term travellers, or those planning an extended stay in Indonesia, SafetyWing Nomad Insurance is an excellent choice. It’s specifically designed for globally mobile individuals, and their flexible plans can be tailored to suit your travel style. SafetyWing covers medical expenses, emergency evacuation, trip interruptions, and even COVID-19-related issues. Ideal for travellers who need long-term protection.

Why choose SafetyWing?

• Flexible plans: Ideal for long-term travellers or digital nomads.
• COVID-19 coverage: Includes coverage for COVID-19-related disruptions.
• Affordable pricing: Competitive rates for extended travel coverage.

👉 Find Out More About SafetyWing Nomad Insurance

Plan Your Trip to Scotland: Useful Travel Resource Links

🌞 Useful Travel Resources & Essentials 🌞

By using the following links, you can support Call of the World at no additional cost to yourself

HEALTH & INSURANCE

🚨 TRAVEL MEDICAL INSURANCE: To ensure peace of mind while travelling or living abroad, we recommend getting health insurance. SafetyWing offer Nomad Insurance with globally mobile individuals in mind. Find out more here.

🏥 TRAVEL INSURANCE: Insure your trip with Heymondo, your trusted travel companion. They offer single-trip, annual and long-stay travel insurance. App with 24-hour medical support. (Call of the World readers get 5% off your travel insurance policy using my link)

BANKING & CURRENCY EXCHANGE

💶 FOREIGN CURRENCY CARD: To pay by card and withdraw cash at the best rates, get a WISE card before your trip. This allows you to convert money into any other currency at the best rates and withdraw cash without hidden fees. WISE is a UK-based financial services company (available in most countries worldwide) and is highly regulated in the various regions it operates in (in the UK it is authorised by the Financial Conduct Authority).

FLIGHTS & TRANSPORT

✈️ FLIGHTS: I always use SKYSCANNER to book my flights. It shows you the best deals and allows you to be flexible with dates. Feeling adventurous? Try out the “explore everywhere” feature.

🚂 BUS, TRAIN & FERRY TICKETS: Book your bus, train and ferry transportation in advance online using 12Go.

🚘 AIRPORT PICKUPS: Ensure peace of mind by booking your airport pickup with Welcome Pickups. Highly recommended if arriving late at night in an unfamiliar location.

TOURS & ACTIVITIES

🗺️ DAY TRIPS & CITY TOURS: Book your tours and activities with Viator. Viator partner with local guides and businesses to offer you the very best travel experiences available. Browse tours here.

🌏 ETHICAL GROUP TOURS: If you fancy joining a group tour, I can highly recommend G Adventures. Not only do G Adventures offer amazing group tours all over the world, but they really put the effort in to do good in the communities they visit. Browse tours here.

STAYING CONNECTED

📳 eSIM: AIRALO: Sort out an eSIM before your arrival with Airalo. Having an eSIM allows you to connect to local network data as soon as you arrive – super useful for Google Maps and rideshare apps!

📳 eSIM: HOLAFLY: Likewise Holafly also offer a convenient eSIM service. They offer unlimited data plans at multiple destinations – perfect whether you’re a remote worker or just want unlimited data for Insta Stories! Call of the World readers get 5% off using the code “CALLOFTHEWORLD”.

📳 eSIM: SAILY: Another eSIM provider is Saily, by the creators of NordVPN (see below), so security is a top feature. Call of the World readers get 5% off using the code “SPECIAL5”.

💻 NordVPN: Remote worker and need a secure network? Or do you simply want to keep up-to-date with your favourite tv show from home? Having a VPN like NordVPN allows you to access the internet securely via an encrypted connection, making the use of public wifi spots much safer.

💻 ExpressVPN: Likewise, ExpressVPN also offer a reliable secure connection using their VPN service, enabling you to protect your privacy when connecting to the internet overseas.

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