Fort William - Gairlochy: Underneath Ben Nevis on the Calendonian Canal
The route starts in Fort William, on the shores of Loch Linnhe and in the shadow of Ben Nevis, Britain's highest mountain. Views of the mountain and its fearsome North Face cliffs can be seen over much of this section, weather permitting. The route leaves the shores of Loch Linnhe, heading inland past Neptune's Staircase, a series of locks near the strait of the Caledonian canal. From here the route takes the riverside path and canal towpath to highland villages of Gairlochy, at the foot of Loch Lochy.
Gairlochy - South Laggan: The shores of Loch Lochy
This 13 mile section follows the northern bank of Loch Lochy for its entire length. It is characterised by fairly easy walking on forestry tracks, footpaths and minor roads. There are spectacular views over Loch Lochy to the high mountains beyond.
South Laggan - Fort Augustus
The canal towpath and old railway track bed take the route along the tree clad shores of Loch Oich, a nature reserve resplendent with native woodlands and wild flowers. There are views across the Loch to the ruins of Invergarry Castle, once the seat of the famous MacDonnells clan. Fort Augustus, established by General Wade in 1729, is soon reached. St Benedicts Abbey and cruises on Loch Ness provide diversions here.
Fort Augustus - Invermoriston
You leave Fort Augustus with a short, steep climb on a minor road which then leads into a forest with stunning views back over Fort Augustus with its abbey and locks.
Today's walk undulates through coniferous forest offering you superb glimpses of Loch Ness through the trees, before zigzagging down to Invermoriston.
Invermoriston - Drumnadrochit
After a steep climb out of Invermoriston with fine views of Loch Ness, you will walk on steep undualting forest tracks until Grotaig. From here the trail changes to moorland and farmland with views over the Great Glen and onwards to Drumnadrochit, known locally as "Drum." You could take a rest day here to visit the impressive Urquhart Castle and cruise on the mighty Loch Ness.
Drumnadrochit - Blackfold
Today is quite a long and challenging day with most of the walk encompassing high moorland, farmland and woodland. The forest road climbs to its highest point so far (1250feet) then descends slightly, where you are near Abrianchan, Britain's largest community forest.
You'll then walk across the Abriachan plateau with fine views of Glen Afffric and Strathfarrar hills to the north before the road then descends to Blackfold, where a local taxi company will meet you and transport you to tonight's accommodation.
Blackfold
- Inverness
Starting back in the forest at Blackfold this morning, you will continue on with your walk to Inverness. Leaving Loch Ness behind you and noticing the river Ness taking over, you continue to walk through mixed forest before witnessing the impressive setting of Inverness Castle, where this walk finishes. |
