Thinking of undertaking an incredible long distance self-guided walking adventure in Scotland? The West Highland Way and the Great Glen Way are two of the most iconic long-distance routes that offer awe-inspiring scenery, fascinating history, and memories to last a lifetime. But which should you choose? This handy guide will help you decide by comparing the standout features of both routes.

Overview of the Routes

West Highland Way

The unrivalled champion of Scotland’s long-distance routes has to be the legendary West Highland Way—and for good reason. Scotland's most renowned route stretches from Milngavie (just outside of Glasgow) to Fort William. Spanning 96 miles, this route takes you through some of the most stunning landscapes in Scotland, from the bonnie banks of Loch Lomond to the wild and rugged Highlands.

First established in 1980, the West Highland Way holds the title of Scotland's first official long-distance route. It was originally created to connect the communities along the path and promote walking tourism. Decades later, it has become a firm favourite among walkers and hikers from around the world, offering a showcase of Scotland's jaw-dropping scenery and rich cultural heritage.

Great Glen Way

The Great Glen Way, also known as Gleann Mòr in Gaelic and Glen Albyn, translates to "The Valley of Scotland." Starting where the West Highland Way ends, this route stretches 79 miles from Fort William to Inverness, tracing the natural fault line of the Great Glen along the Caledonian Canal and the renowned Loch Ness.

Historically, the valley played a pivotal role during the Jacobite uprisings in the 17th and 18th centuries, serving as a strategic route through the Highlands. This military history is immortalised in place names such as Fort William, Fort Augustus, and Fort George.

In the early 19th century, the valley became navigable following the construction of the Caledonian Canal, designed to improve trade routes. Today, the Great Glen draws walkers, hikers, cyclists, sailors, rowers, anglers, and outdoor enthusiasts, making it a popular walking holiday destination for many.

Key Factors for Comparison

The Route

West Highland Way

• Starts in Milngavie and finishes in Fort William.
• Passes through diverse landscapes, including woodlands, moors, and mountains.
• Highlights include Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park, Rannoch Moor, Glencoe, and Lairigmor.

Great Glen Way

• Starts in Fort William and ends in Inverness.
• Follows the route of the Caledonian Canal and Loch Ness.
• Highlights include Neptune's Staircase, Urquhart Castle, and stunning views of Loch Ness.

The Distance

West Highland Way

• 96 miles

Great Glen Way

• 79 miles

The Duration

West Highland Way

• Typically completed in 6-8 days.

Great Glen Way

• Typically completed in 5-7 days.

The Difficulty

West Highland Way

• Ranges from easy to strenuous. There’s an itinerary to suit everyone.
• Some challenging ascents and descents, particularly around Conic Hill and the Devil's Staircase.
• Overall, it provides a mix of challenges, making it suitable for both beginners and experienced walkers.

Great Glen Way

• Moderate overall.
• Generally features easier terrain with gradual inclines, accommodating more fitness levels.
• The first few days are gentle, perfect for easing into the walk, while "high routes" along the way add both challenge and stunning rewards.

The Terrain

West Highland Way

• Varied terrain, including well-trodden paths, rocky trails, and open moorland.
• Some sections can be boggy or uneven, so sturdy footwear is essential!

Great Glen Way

• Predominantly along well-maintained trails, canal towpaths, and forest tracks.
• Slightly smoother and more predictable compared to the West Highland Way, though the high routes introduce some steeper climbs and rugged paths.

Suitability (Who is it for?)

West Highland Way

• Perfect for seasoned walkers and those seeking a challenge.
• Best suited to those who enjoy diverse and dramatic landscapes.

Great Glen Way

• Ideal for beginners and intermediate walkers.
• Great for those who prefer a gentler walk with picturesque waterway views.

Suitability for Solo Travellers

Both trails are well-marked and popular with walkers, making them a good choice for solo adventurers. That said, the camaraderie on the West Highland Way is frequently highlighted, with plenty of opportunities to connect with fellow walkers along the route.

Suitability for Senior Travellers

West Highland Way

• Demands a good level of fitness due to its challenging sections.
• Less suitable for those with mobility concerns.

Great Glen Way

• Offers a more manageable route with easier terrain, making it a more accessible option for senior walkers.

What You Can Expect on Each Walk

West Highland Way

Scenery:

Unforgettable landscapes, featuring mountains, lochs, and moors. Marvel at iconic landmarks like Ben Nevis and Buachaille Etive Mor.

Wildlife:

Watch out for red deer, golden eagles, and playful otters.

Culture:

Immerse yourself in Scotland’s history with ancient ruins, castles, and traditional Highland villages. Notable stops include the evocative ruins of the 13th-century Inverlochy Castle near Fort William and the striking Stalker Castle, perched dramatically on a small island on Loch Laich.

Additionally, uncover the ancient settlement remains at Kinlochleven and the stunningly located ruins of Castle Tioram – complete with breathtaking views of the surrounding area.

Great Glen Way

Scenery:

Serene waterways, lush forests, and expansive loch vistas. Get your fill of famous sights like Loch Ness and the awe-inspiring Urquhart Castle.

Wildlife:

Look out for ospreys, red squirrels, and – if you’re lucky – even a glimpse of the elusive “Nessie”!

Culture:

Learn about the engineering genius behind the Caledonian Canal as you explore. Visit fascinating historical sites like the ruins of Inverlochy, Achnacarry, Invergarry, and, of course, the prominent Urquhart Castle.

End your walk in Inverness, known as the “capital of the Highlands,” where highlights include the historic Culloden Battlefield and the mysterious stone circles at Clava Cairns.

Accommodation Types and Comfort

Both trails offer a variety of accommodation options, ensuring comfort for every kind of traveller.

West Highland Way:

• A mix of B&Bs, guesthouses, and hotels.
• A particularly memorable stay is the Kingshouse Hotel, offering spectacular views of Buachaille Etive Mor.

Great Glen Way:

• Mainly B&Bs and cosy small hotels.
• Many accommodations feature modern ensuite facilities, ensuring a comfortable rest.

Getting to the Starting Point of Each Walk

West Highland Way:

• Easily accessible via train from Glasgow to Milngavie, the starting point of the route.

Great Glen Way:

• The trail begins in Fort William, which can be reached by train from Glasgow or by bus from Inverness.

The Costs of Each Walk

Both routes are accessible to a range of budgets. Costs depend on your itinerary, accommodation choices, meal plans, and additional experiences. On average, anticipate spending around £890 per person for a self-guided tour. This usually includes accommodation, breakfast, luggage transfers, detailed route information (maps and GPX files), access to Macs' user-friendly navigation app, 24/7 support from our on-trip team, and a final overnight stay at your destination.

The Best Time of Year to Tackle Each Route

Spring (April to June):

Experience cooler weather, fewer midges, and vibrant spring flowers – a popular choice for both trails.

Summer (July to August):

Expect warmer temperatures but also more midges and larger crowds. With the right preparation, summer is still an excellent time to walk.

Autumn (September to October):

Fewer visitors, cooler temperatures, and jaw-dropping autumn colours. A wonderful season to walk either trail.

Winter (November to March):

These trails aren’t operated by Macs Adventure in winter due to harsher weather conditions and limited services.

Choose Both for the Ultimate Adventure

Both the West Highland Way and the Great Glen Way provide incredible opportunities for self-guided walking holidays. The good news? You don’t have to pick one over the other! Why not take on the rugged challenges of the West Highland Way before seamlessly transitioning to the tranquil, picturesque Great Glen Way?

Whether you walk them back-to-back or as separate trips, these iconic Scottish trails promise to deliver unforgettable experiences. Scotland’s spellbinding landscapes, rich history, and warm hospitality will ensure your adventure is nothing short of extraordinary.

Are you ready to take the first step towards an epic walking holiday in Scotland? Book your self-guided adventure today and start planning the trip of a lifetime!