Walking the West Highland Way, which runs from Milngavie just outside Glasgow to Fort William, is one of the major challenges for walkers in the UK, and an estimated 30,000 people complete the 96 mile route every year.
Most people who tackle the West Highland Way do so over eight days, doing on average 12 miles walking per day and stopping in many of the attractive villages which the route passes through. There is hotel and B&B accommodation along the Way, but many hikers prefer to camp and get closure to nature. Just remember if planning to camp that you are in Scotland and even in summer it can get cold, rainy and very windy. Bring a good quality tent, sleeping bag, some 1000 mile socks and a change of clothes should you get soaking wet. If you opt to stay in B & B’s along the way, you’ll at least have somewhere to get warm and dry and to wash and dry clothing along the route. For the easiest option, there are companies who will pick up your things in the morning and move them on to your next night’s accommodation, meaning you don’t have to carry a heavy rucksack with you all day.
The West Highland Way passes through some of the most stunning scenery in Scotland. Starting in Milngavie you’ll pass through rolling countryside before a long stretch of the Way along the shores of Loch Lomond, the largest lake in the UK. The route then turns to the north west, passing through the dramatic scenery of Glencoe before reaching the west coast at Fort William.
Walking the Way is most popular in the summer months between May and August, so if you are planning on doing the walk at this time you’ll need to prepare in advance and book accommodation well ahead of time. Most people start their walks from Glasgow on a Friday or Saturday, so starting midweek may well mean you find both more peace and quiet on the Way and accommodation easier to find. Weather is unpredictable though, and the Way can be equally beautiful in March, April, or October. One of the advantages of the summer months is the length of the days. In mid June, the sun rises at 4.30am and doesn’t set until 10.30pm, giving you lots of daylight to enjoy the scenery.
When packing for the walk it’s important to consider the weight of the things you pack. A map is essential, although the route is well signposted. A mobile phone is useful as is a camera for recording what you can see. Pack a couple of extra pairs of 1000 mile socks, and carry a few snacks and drinks to keep you going until you get to the next village with a welcoming pub and a good bar food menu.