Scotland's West Highland Way
The Comfort Tour
May 8-18, 2027
Trip Overview:
Scotland’s West Highland Way is a trail that feels pulled from the pages of a storybook. Over the course of 96 unforgettable miles, we’ll wander through rolling emerald hills, ancient forests, quiet farmland, misty glens, and beneath towering Highland peaks as we make our way from the outskirts of Glasgow to the dramatic Highlands of Fort William. Along the way, we’ll pass mirror-like lochs, centuries-old stone bridges, charming villages, grazing Highland cattle, and landscapes so cinematic they hardly feel real. The West Highland Way is beloved not only for its beauty, but for the feeling it gives you — a slower rhythm of life, meaningful conversations on trail, cozy evenings in welcoming inns, and the simple joy of walking through one of the most breathtaking regions in the world.
This particular journey has been intentionally designed as a Comfort Tour — perfect for hikers who want the magic of a long-distance trek without the physical strain of carrying heavy packs or pushing exhausting daily mileage. We’ve extended the itinerary to allow for shorter hiking days, giving you more time to soak in the scenery, linger in villages, enjoy long lunches, and truly experience the Highlands rather than rushing through them. Daily mileage will generally range from approximately 6–15 miles and will include a mix of rolling terrain, forest paths, moorland trails, and occasional rocky or uneven sections.
Each evening, we’ll trade hiking boots for cozy accommodations in hand-selected locally owned B&Bs, historic inns, and charming Highland hotels full of warmth and character. Your luggage will be transferred ahead each day, meaning all you’ll need to carry on trail is a comfortable daypack with your daily essentials. After each day’s hike, you can look forward to hot showers, hearty Scottish meals, local pubs, and restful nights surrounded by the charm and hospitality that make Scotland so special.
This is a trip for travelers who crave both adventure and comfort — for those who want to challenge themselves, immerse themselves in the Highlands, and experience the camaraderie and magic of hut-to-hut style trekking, while still enjoying the comforts that allow you to fully savor the journey.
Trail Specs
Total Distance: ~96 miles
Days on the Trail: 9 trekking days
Highest Elevation: ~1,800 ft
Average Daily Mileage: ~6-15 miles
Terrain: Mooreland trails, forested sections, meadows, and rocky military road.
Trail Difficulty: Moderate. While this is a long-distance, multi-day trek, shorter mileages and luggage transfers make this an accessible trek for most hikers.
Weather: Expect a mix of cool mornings, warm afternoons, sunshine, mist and the possibility of prolonged rain--all in one day!
Typical Temperature Range:
• Daytime: 50-70°F
• Nights: 45-60°F
What Type of Challenge Is This?
Physical Challenge:
This trip is designed to be approachable for hikers with a solid fitness base, but it is still a multi-day trekking adventure that requires endurance and preparation. Daily mileage will generally range from approximately 6–15 miles per day across a mix of dirt trails, gravel paths, rolling hills, forest tracks, rocky sections, and uneven terrain. While this Comfort Tour removes the burden of carrying a heavy backpack, hikers should still feel comfortable spending consecutive days on their feet for several hours at a time. Consistent training beforehand — especially hiking and walking with elevation gain — will help guests enjoy the experience to the fullest.
Accommodations:
While this is our Comfort Tour, it is important to understand that accommodations along the West Highland Way are often small, locally owned, historic, and full of rustic Highland charm — not luxury resorts. Throughout the journey, we’ll stay in a mix of quaint B&Bs, guesthouses, inns, and historic hotels that reflect the character and culture of the region. Rooms and amenities can vary significantly from place to place, and some properties are quite old by modern standards. Guests should arrive with an open mind, a flexible attitude, and an appreciation for the authenticity and coziness that make these accommodations part of the overall experience. Comfortable? Absolutely. Luxury? Not necessarily — and that’s part of the magic of trekking through the Highlands.
Mental Challenge:
The West Highland Way is less about technical difficulty and more about embracing the rhythm of trail life. Scotland’s weather can shift quickly, and hikers should come prepared for rain, mud, wind, and changing conditions throughout the journey. Flexibility, patience, and a positive attitude go a long way on this trail. Some days may feel physically tiring, but the reward comes from slowing down, settling into the journey, and experiencing the Highlands one step at a time alongside a supportive group of fellow travelers.
Reward Level:
The reward level of the West Highland Way is exceptionally high. Few trails combine such dramatic scenery, rich history, welcoming culture, and satisfying accomplishment in such an accessible way. From quiet lochside paths and sweeping Highland vistas to evenings spent gathered around hearty meals in cozy Scottish inns, this journey offers both adventure and deep restoration. The combination of stunning landscapes, meaningful camaraderie, and the simple rhythm of walking day after day creates an experience that stays with people long after they return home.
Itinerary at a Glance
Day 1: Arrival
Fly into Milngavie and catch your Authentica transport to your hotel in Milngavie. If there's time, check out the local outdoor shop for any last minute gear needs, or walk about 1 mile to explore the ruins of an old Roman road. In the evening you will get a chance to meet the rest of your group, as well as your guides, at a local pub for a welcome evening and briefing.
Accommodation in or near Milngavie
Day 2: Milngavie to Drymen
This is the first day of walking, where the trip really begins. Today we will be walking to Drymen. We will start by walking out of the urban area of Milngavie, leaving hectic town-life behind us for the coming journey. We will make our way through the tranquil woodlands of Mugdock Country Park, before walking along the west side of Craigallan Loch, a popular spot for local fishermen. For much of the rest of the day we will gain views over the Campsie Fells before
eventually reaching Drymen for our first stop on the trail.
Distance Hiked: ~12 miles
Elevation Gain: ~800 ft
Accommodations: Hotel in Drymen
Meals included: Breakfast
Day 3: Drymen to Balmaha
Today we will be walking to Balmaha. Highlights include the walk up Conic Hill. From the top the islands on Loch Lomond can be seen in a straight line, following the Highland Boundary fault line. From here we will be descend to the small village of Balmaha.
Distance Hiked: ~8 miles
Elevation Gain: ~1,360 ft
Accommodations: Hotel in or near Drymen or Balmaha
Meals Included: Breakfast
Day 4: Balmaha to Rowardennan
We will be spending the day following the wooded shores of Loch Lomond until we reach Rowardennan. This
is a straightforward section of trail with a few ups and downs. Views open out across the loch at times but the
greenery of the native woodland will be the theme of the day.
Distance Hiked: ~7 miles
Elevation Gain: ~600 ft
Accommodations: Hotel in or near Balmaha or Rowardennan
Meals Included: Breakfast
Day 5: Rowardennan to Inverarnan
This is a surprisingly tough section of the walk due to the nature of the trail underfoot. It begins on excellent tracks from the car park at the foot of the famous Ben Lomond. We will then be following an undulating forestry track through the beautiful woods giving views to both Loch Lomond and the nearby mountains of the Arrochar Alps, including the distinctive summit of The Cobbler. Rocks and roots and ups and downs make this a physically demanding day, especially after lunch. Often people find this the toughest section
of the whole the trail. As the day draws to an end we will reach Inverarnan.
Distance Hiked: ~14 miles
Elevation Gain: ~2,000 ft
Accommodations: Hotel in Inverarnan
Meals Included: Breakfast
Day 6: Inverarnan to Tyndrum
This section should take us around 6 hours to complete and is on good paths and sections of the Old Military Road. Highlights of today include walking through ancient
woodlands, getting a glimpse of the Falls of Falloch, and passing the halfway mark on the trail. We will be
following beautiful rivers and finding out the history of the area, such as at the site of the battle of Dal Righ and
the remains of St Fillan's Church. It is a day of great variety, with some easier walking, and you will feel
inspired by the prospect of Rannoch Moor and Glen Coe ahead.
Distance Hiked: ~12 miles
Elevation Gain: ~1,600 ft.
Accommodations: Hotel in Tyndrum
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Day 7: Tyndrum to Bridge of Orchy
Today is a shorter day with just 6 miles to cover. We will begin with a hill climb out of Tyndrum but this is
soon over. Then the views open out as we sweep down the trail in front of the imposing Beinn Dorain. Good
tracks take us all the way to Bridge of Orchy.
Distance Hiked: ~6 miles
Elevation Gain: ~390 ft.
Accommodations: Hotel in Tyndrum or Bridge of Orchy
Meals Included: Breakfast
Day 8: Bridge of Orchy to Kingshouse
For this section we will be walking for most of the day on very good paths, and we will get glorious views over Loch Tulla and the Black Mount mountains in the first half of the day. However, the second half of the day is when the adventure really begins as we tackle the most famous part of the walk, Rannoch Moor. Rannoch Moor can be one of two things: the most beautiful place you can ever imagine to walk in if we get good weather, or the most wild, exposed and intimidating place if the weather is bad. Either way it is
a part of the walk you will never forget. Rannoch Moor is 50 square miles of peat bog and lochans surrounded
by magnificent mountains. We will be walking along the parliamentary road. As we reach the end of this section
we will be greeted by views of the iconic Buachaille Etive Mòr as we head into Glen Coe.
Distance Hiked: ~13 miles
Elevation Gain: ~1,500 ft
Accommodations: Hotel in or near Kinlochleven
Meals Included: Breakfast
Day 9: Kingshouse to Kinlochleven
Today our highlights will include the famous ascent of the ominously named ‘Devil’s Staircase’. It is a 900 ft climb but once at the top we will get incredible views over the Glen Coe Mountains and the Blackwater Reservoir. It is not as bad as the name suggests and you will be atop the rise before your know it. We will then begin our descent down into the village of Kinlochleven. It is a long descent, but once down we have finished our walking for today and you will be able to walk into your accommodation, which is usually
within the village itself.
Distance Hiked: ~9 miles
Elevation Gain: ~1,200 ft
Accommodations: Hotel in or near Kinlochleven
Meals Included: Breakfast
Day 10: Kinlochleven to Ft. William
The last day of our journey! Today we will be walking to Fort William, where we will find the official end of
the West Highland Way. We will be walking for 6 – 7 hours and cover a distance of 15 miles and 650m of
ascent. We will start by ascending through the woods above Kinlochleven. With the most strenuous part of the
day out of the way we will follow the old military road gaining stunning views of the nearby mountains. Today
we will see the Ben Nevis, the biggest mountain in Scotland, and get fantastic views of Glen Nevis too. Then
you will finally walk into Fort William itself, tired but happy in knowledge that you have completed your West
Highland Way journey - an achievement not to be underestimated!
Distance Hiked: ~15 miles
Elevation Gain: ~2,000 ft
Accommodations: Hotel in or near Ft. William
Meals Included: Breakfast
Day 11: Departure
Today you will have your final breakfast of the trip and then it is time to make your way home or onwards to
more further travels. Fort William is well linked to the North and the South of Scotland by train and bus links.
If you need assistance booking onward travel, this can be arranged for a fee.
Meals Included: Breakfast
Inclusions and Exclusions
Inclusions
Exclusions
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Airport transfers from Glasgow airport to accommodation in Milngavie
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Hotel accommodations for every night of the itinerary (Booked on a double occupancy basis)
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All taxis/transfers needed during the trek
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Fully qualified International Mountain Leader Guide for all trekking days
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Trekking manager to assist with transfers, and needs along the trek
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Experienced Trip Host
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Luggage transfer for suitcases or duffels
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Breakfast at all accommodations
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Assistance with finding packed lunch options, grocery stores, and dinner reservations for the group
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Pre‑trip Zoom meeting and preparation support
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International airfare
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ETA visa for entering the UK
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Personal trekking gear
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Tips for your mountain guide and trekking manager
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Travel insurance
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Personal expenses
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Drinks, souvenirs, and other extras
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Lunches and dinners
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Transfers from Ft. William (unless requested)
Your Trip Host
Daniel
Daniel brings years of multi-day trekking experience to the trail, along with the steady, calm presence that makes people instantly feel at ease in the outdoors. As a certified paramedic, he’s exceptionally capable in high-pressure situations and is known for staying level-headed, thoughtful, and reassuring when challenges arise on trail. Whether navigating unpredictable weather, helping guests through a difficult day, or simply offering encouragement during a long climb, Daniel is the kind of person you’ll be grateful to have beside you in the Highlands.
But beyond his professional background, Daniel is also the unofficial morale specialist of the trip. He firmly believes that every great trekking day should end with a well-earned meal, a good local beer, and the perfect cozy pub — and somehow, he always manages to find the best one around. His combination of competence, humor, and laid-back personality makes him an invaluable part of the experience both on and off the trail.
Trip Cost:
$3,250.00/person
Terms & Conditions:
This trip is designed for an intimate group of up to 12 guests, with a minimum of 10 participants required to run. We will confirm the trip by September 1, 2026; if the minimum is not met, all deposits will be fully refunded. Final payment for all confirmed departures will be due by March 1, 2027.
Payments & Insurance:
To secure your place on this trip, a $500 deposit is required.
Trip deposits and final payments are non-refundable once the trip is confirmed and running, as we secure accommodations, guides, and logistics well in advance. For this reason, we strongly recommend purchasing comprehensive travel insurance at the time of booking to protect your investment. Please note that refunds cannot be issued for any reason other than the trip not meeting minimum participant requirements.
Accommodations:
Trip pricing is based on double occupancy in hotels and BNBs. Solo occupancy can be arranged for a solo occupant fee of $600.
Dietary Considerations:
Due to the remote nature of some parts of this trek, highly restrictive dietary preferences and food accommodations cannot be guaranteed throughout the trek. Vegetarian meals can often be accommodated, but availability and variety may be limited at certain locations.
This is a physically demanding adventure, and proper nourishment is an important part of having a safe and enjoyable experience on the trail. Guests with specific dietary needs or preferences are strongly encouraged to bring supplemental snacks or specialty foods that help them feel their best during consecutive days of hiking.
Get in Touch
For questions regarding remaining trip spaces, itinerary, trail fitness, gear or other details, please send us a message!
In order to put your deposit down to secure your place, please contact us via the form provided!
Inclusions and Exclusions
Inc