Scotland's West Highland Way & Beyond - 13 Days

Day 1: Arrive in Glasgow, Self-Guided Exploration

Welcome to Scotland! You've landed in Glasgow, a modern, creative city that has been shaped by its rich industrial heritage. This is reflected in the grand Victorian architecture that's now juxtaposed with modern structures. On arrival at the airport, take a taxi to your hotel. Drop your bags, refresh, lace up your walking shoes, and set out to explore the city on a self-guided adventure.

With a free afternoon in Glasgow, you could explore the city's vibrant cultural scene. Start at the Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum to admire an eclectic collection of art and historical artifacts, then stroll through Kelvingrove Park. Seek out a traditional Glasgow pub for a hearty meal, tasting local dishes like haggis, then visit one of the city's music venues or theaters.

Day 2: Train to the Bridge of Orchy, Explore

After breakfast, make your way to Glasgow's train station on foot or by taxi. This is where you'll catch a 2.5-hour direct service north to Bridge of Orchy. After the 1715 Jacobite uprising, the government started building better infrastructure across the country, and this namesake bridge was built in 1751. These days the village is most famous for being on the West Highland Way, Scotland's favorite long-distance walking route. Settle into your accommodation for the evening and enjoy the charms of the historic village. You'll want to rest up ahead of tomorrow's first day of walking.

Day 3: Hike the West Highland Way: Bridge of Orchy to Kingshouse (Glen Coe)

Stretching 96 miles (154 km) from Milngavie to Fort William, the West Highland Way traverses an incredible range of Scottish scenery, from countryside parks to lochs and open moorlands to steep mountains. The route is usually completed south to north, as the southern part is flatter and easier—but you'll be jumping in halfway, so set off ready to hike some challenging terrain. Your first day on the trail takes you through the beautiful Rannoch Moor, a wild and remote section of Scotland.

You'll then cross over to Glen Coe, home to some of the most beautiful mountain scenery in the United Kingdom. Pass the impressive Buachaille Etive Mor to arrive at Kingshouse, one of Scotland's oldest inns and your base for the night. Today's total walking distance is 13 miles (21 km) and will take around 4.5 hours. Don't worry about your luggage, bag transfers will be arranged, and your luggage will meet you each night on the trail!

Day 5: Hike the West Highland Way: Kinlochleven to Fort William

Today you'll tackle the final section of the West Highland Way, taking you from Kinlochleven to Fort William. The trek starts with a steep climb out of Kinlochleven, and make sure to look back to admire the view. Ahead lies the great pass of Lairigmor, a special path that follows the glen. Wander through woodland and forestry plantations and watch as Ben Nevis, Britain's highest mountain, comes into full view. Before the final descent, you could choose to make a short detour and see the remains of Dun Deardail, an Iron Age fort in Glen Nevis.

Soon enough, you'll make the descent to Fort William, known as the "adventure capital of the UK." This loch-side town sits between crystal clear lakes and snowcapped mountains, drawing outdoor enthusiasts from all over the world. Venture into town, take a photo with the bronze statue of a fellow walker at Gordon Square, and then celebrate today's walking distance of 14 miles (23 km).

Day 6: Train to Mallaig, Ferry to the Isle of Skye, Whisky Immersion at Torabhaig

Today you're destined for the dramatic and ethereal Isle of Skye, which is known for its rugged, mountainous terrain and the iconic Cuillin Range. To get there, you'll catch an 80-minute train to Mallaig, where you'll board a ferry destined for the island. On arrival, take a quick taxi, short bus ride, or 90-minute walk to the Torabhaig Distillery.

Here whisky-making traditions have thrived for nearly two centuries. This historic distillery, only the second licensed single malt Scotch whisky distillery on Skye, pays homage to its natural surroundings and draws on the island's pristine water, land, and distinct climate. Join a distillery tour to uncover the painstaking process of crafting fine Scotch whisky, from mashing and fermentation to distillation and aging in oak casks. The history-rich stone building, once part of a 200-year-old farmstead, adds a sense of timelessness to the experience.

Day 7: Salmon & Sea Trout Fishing Tour, Free Time

The Isle of Skye is an idyllic and scenic destination, so there's nowhere better to throw out a line and enjoy a few hours of fishing. Today you'll join a local fishing expert and visit the River Snizort, the main salmon river on the Isle of Skye. You'll visit holding pools and see how the character of the river changes, with gorge pools and streamy glides for the more adventurous angler. Sea trout follow the salmon upriver and can provide good sport during local water conditions. While smaller in stature, they're hard-fighting and acrobatic when hooked!

For today's experience, you'll enjoy using top-of-the-range Loop rods and break by the river with a packed lunch. The rest of the afternoon is yours to explore the best of Skye. You could use your time to hike to the crystal-clear, blue-hued Fairy Pools in Glen Brittle or trek through the otherworldly landscape of the Quiraing.

Day 8: Transfer to Inverness, Private Tour of Culloden Battlefield

This morning, a private driver will collect you for the 2.5-hour transfer to Inverness, a city rich with historical sites. Enjoy lunch in town and drop your bags at your accommodation before joining a special private tour this afternoon.

The Culloden Battlefield is the site of the final Jacobite Rising, the last and most dramatic battle fought on British soil. On 16 April 1746, Jacobite supporters seeking to restore the Stuart monarchy to the British thrones gathered to fight the Duke of Cumberland's government troops. In less than an hour, around 1,300 men were slain—more than 1,250 of them Jacobites. Together with a private guide, you'll explore the site, graves, cairn, and visitor center, which houses interactive exhibits and artifacts.

Day 10: Cairngorms National Park Wildlife Safari Tour, Transfer to Aviemore

Cairngorms National Park offers some of the best wildlife diversity in the United Kingdom. This pristine landscape is home to a quarter of the threatened species, and on today's full-day wildlife safari, you'll encounter the wilder side of the protected park. Explore expansive heather-clad moorlands, pass through towering Caledonian pine forests, admire imposing peaks, and see pristine lochs from the back of a 4WD Land Rover Discovery. Your knowledgeable guide will seek out wildlife, including red deer, golden eagles, and ospreys, and some light walking may be involved.

This is your opportunity to explore the remote beauty of the Cairngorms and see the conservation efforts and commitment to preserving Scotland's natural heritage. After your safari adventure, your guide will drop you at Aviemore, a charming town and hub for outdoor enthusiasts who flock here for hiking, skiing, and mountain biking. Settle into your accommodation, then find a good place for dinner in town.

Day 11: Train to Edinburgh via Stirling Castle

This morning you'll board a two-hour train to Stirling, a city with a long history of kings, queens, and battles. Stirling Castle is one of the largest and most significant castles in Scotland, and today you'll appreciate its beauty on a two-hour, 3-mile (5 km) walk, starting in the center of Stirling, which is known for its fine concentration of medieval buildings, rising to the crag crowned by the glorious castle. Pass by Erskine Church, see the 17th-century Cowane's Hospital, and detour to Mote Hill for views of the Wallace Monument, Dumyat, and the Ochils.

Stirling Castle is where the Great Siege took place in 1304, when Edward I, the Hammer of the Scots, besieged the fortress. Explore the Royal Palace, Chapel Royal, and Regimental Museum, then continue on your loop back to the train station. Board a 50-minute train to Edinburgh, then take a taxi or walk to your hotel and home base for two nights.

Day 12: Scotch Whisky Experience, Royal Mile Walking Tour, Visit Edinburgh Castle

Edinburgh, the capital of Scotland, is a captivating historic and modern city known for its festivals, thriving arts scene, and friendly locals. Kick off your last full day with a special morning whisky experience. On this 90-minute tour, you'll visit the Diageo Claive Vidiz Scotch Whisky Collection, which is the world's largest collection of Scotch whisky with almost 3,500 individual bottles. Start with a whisky barrel car ride, explore the production and maturation process, and then discover the vast world of whisky aromas. Finally, you'll join a tasting and see the famous collection.

In the afternoon you'll explore Edinburgh on a historical walking tour. Promenade through the cobbled streets, wynds, and closes of the world-famous Royal Mile, which connects Edinburgh Castle with the official royal residence in Scotland, the Palace of Holyroodhouse. Over 90 minutes, you'll hear true stories and fascinating facts and learn about the city's rich heritage. Finally, enter Edinburgh Castle and discover the many battles and sieges fought over it. See the Great Hall of King James IV, lavish royal rooms, and the oldest crown jewels in Britain.

Day 13: Depart Edinburgh

Your grand adventure across Scotland comes to an end today! If you have time, take a walk up Carlton Hill to take in views over the city. When the time is right, a private driver will collect you for a transfer to the airport for your flight home or next destination. Safe travels!