3 Night Scottish Highlands Gentle Guided Walking Holiday

Distance: 4.5 miles (7km)

Ascent: 550 feet (160m)

We’ll begin with a walk up the peaceful main street of Glencoe Village passing the local museum and the Glencoe Massacre Monument – a memorial to the 30 members of Clan MacDonald murdered by government forces during the Jacobite Uprising in 1692. Crossing the old Bridge of Coe, we’ll head through the woodlands that surround “Hospital Lochan”, an 18th century manor house that served as the local hospital for many years. After a circuit of the lochan, we’ll follow the Glencoe Orbital track to the National Trust for Scotland Visitor Centre where there’s free time to check out fascinating exhibits on the history and wildlife of the area.

Distance: 8 miles (13km)

Ascent: 1,200 feet (360m)

Starting at the National Trust for Scotland Visitor Centre, we’ll have time to check out the exhibits that give a fascinating insight into the wildlife and history of the area and what we will see on the walk. We’ll initially follow the same route as option 2 but before reaching the Clachaig Inn, we’ll turn right to visit Signal Rock. This small but distinctive summit amongst the trees is reputed to be the place where the signal was made to start the infamous Glencoe Massacre.

Distance: 5.5 miles (8.5km)

Ascent: 650 feet (200m)

We take an old railway track just on the outskirts of Fort William to Inverlochy Castle, stopping along the way to find out about the 15th and 17th century battles fought here. Ascending through the forest we reach the ski centre at the foot of Ben Nevis. After riding the Nevis Range Mountain Gondola, we’ll take an easy path north to the viewpoint of Sgurr Finniosgaig. Thanks to the far-reaching views, this route gives the feeling of a high-level walk for much less effort. We descend via the gondola to the bottom station, where we'll meet our driver for the journey back to the house.

Distance: 7.5 miles (12km)

Ascent: 750 feet (240m)

Following the gondola ride, we’ll take a long-but-easy path west to the viewpoint of Meall Beag for extensive views over both Loch Eil and Loch Linnhe. Then, descending through the forest and along an old railway track, we’ll pass by the Ben Nevis whisky distillery before continuing to ancient Inverlochy Castle. Heading across the fields where the battles of Inverlochy were fought, we’ll skirt along the shore of the River Lochy Estuary and finish in Fort William where, if time allows, you’re free to explore.

Distance: 6 miles (9.5km)

Ascent: 650 feet (200m)

Initially following the same route as option 1, we’ll visit St Ciaran’s Church, before taking the less frequented path through fields and forest. We’ll pass the River Arkaig and the now disused walled garden to reach Achnacarry where there’ll be time for a visit to the museum before making our way on to Loch Arkaig and the waterfall.

Distance: 8 miles (13km)

Ascent: 700 feet (220m)

We’ll start by crossing under the Caledonian Canal through the 260ft-long masonry conduit built around 1810 to provide farm access. In storm conditions the tunnel can be wet with excess water from the River Loy but is normally dry. There is no lighting, so a torch is advised to avoid puddles. After just 2.3 miles of easy walking on the canal tow path we’ll reach Gairlochy Canal Bridge. From here, we’ll follow the same route as options 1 and 2 but extend the walk to cross the River Arkaig and continue upstream through the woods. Crossing back over via a foot bridge we’ll pass Achnacarry House and continue past Loch Arkaig to the waterfalls.

Distance: 5 miles (8.5km)

Ascent: 750 feet (220m)

After our visit to the historic Dunstaffnage Castle, we’ll walk through the woods to the nearby beach. Following paths below the sea cliffs, there’s a short-but-steep ascent to the viewpoint at Aonadh Beag where we’ll enjoy panoramas over Appin, Lismore, and Mull. Undulating moorland paths take us to Ganavan Sands where we’ll continue into Oban. From the North Pier, we’ll turn steeply up narrow streets to reach McCaigs Tower for near bird’s-eye views of the town and harbour.

Distance: 4 miles (6km)

Ascent: 400 feet (120m)

Starting with a visit to the historic Dunstaffnage Castle, we’ll take the well-made path from Dunbeg across open moorland to the coast at Ganavan Sands - arguably Oban’s best beach. Following the coast south on minor roads and field paths, we’ll pass Dunollie Castle and round a headland by the war memorial. Here, the whole of Oban Bay including the harbour and town comes into view with McCaigs Tower above. After admiring the ferries coming and going to the islands, we’ll walk along the seafront promenade past the cathedral, and enjoy time to explore the piers, cafés, shops, and attractions.