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7 Night Scottish Highlands Family Walking Adventure

Alltshellach, Glencoe
Under 11s go free

■ Location: Scottish Highlands

■ Duration: 7 nights at an HF Country House

■ Board Basis: Full Board

■ Itineraries available: 1

■ Carbon Footprint: 147kg CO2 details

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For group booking of 10 or more please click here
Few places rival the Scottish Highlands for adventure. So when it comes to family holidays, our characterful country house in Glen Coe has plenty to please. With an enviable setting right on the shores of Loch Leven, the grounds of this stately Scottish house make the perfect playground for kids. Elsewhere, you’re spoilt for choice. Discover dramatic glens where historic battles took place, hit the heights with a ride on the UK’s only gondola-style chairlift, or tackle Ben Nevis – Britain’s tallest mountain.

Accommodation

HF Country House
For a combination of mountain views, olde-worlde charm, and somewhere comfortable to sleep, this stately Scottish house in North Ballachulish has an enviable setting right on the shores of Loch Leven. The walking opportunities here are as every bit rugged and romantic as you’d expect, especially around Glen Coe, the Mamores, Kinlochleven, Bidean nam Bian, and Ben Nevis – the 1,345-metre-high peak towering above glistening lochans and glacial valleys in the north-west Highlands. You can also spend time in Fort William and ride the Hogwarts-esque Jacobite steam train as it makes its way through beauty spots such as Loch Eil, Glenfinnan, and Arisaig to the fishing port of Mallaig.
10682_0006 - Alltshellach - Exterior

What You’ll Love

  • Under 11s GO FREE 
  • Enjoying gentle waterside strolls or bagging Munros 
  • Spending time in charming highland villages 
  • Discovering Scotland’s fascinating history  
  • Swimming in Loch Leven  
  • Staying at our comfortable country house

What's Included

  • Family rooms available subject to availability
  • Comfortable en-suite accommodation in our country house 
  • Cream tea on arrival day 
  • Cooked or continental breakfast every morning 
  • Daily packed lunches 
  • Three-course evening meals tailored towards families, plus tea & coffee 
  • Guided walking with experienced HF Holidays Leaders 
  • Choice of up to four guided walks (on walking days) 
  • All transport to and from walks where necessary 
  • Easy-to-follow routes, maps, and information in our Discovery Point if you want to explore independently  

Itinerary

All our carefully-curated itineraries are designed by our experts. While we make every effort to adhere to the described itinerary, we may take alternative routes or adapt the running order for weather and/or operational reasons.

Family Walks

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    [title] => Over Loch Linnhe to Ardgour Peninsular
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                    [title] => Ardgour Estate
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Distance: 3.5 miles (6km)    

Ascent: 100ft (40m)    

We’ll set sail on the Corran Ferry to the Ardgour peninsula – only a 5-minute journey away. Here we’ll explore the grounds of the Ardgour Estate, home to the Maclean clan for the last 600 years. There’s plenty to see, including a group of lochans (small lochs) formed by glaciers 10,000 years ago.  

What your kids will love: Imagine what life was like under the rule of ‘Strong Donald the Hunter’, the first Maclean of Ardgour, who overcame the MacMasters clan to secure the land. Search for their tartan colours and have a go at drawing your own. 

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Distance: 6.5 miles (10.5km)    

Ascent: 500ft (160m)    

Embark on a fabulous walk passing abandoned quarries and into the woodland trails of Inchree Forest, where there’s plenty of wildlife to spot. In the afternoon we’ll hop aboard the Corran Ferry to explore the Ardgour Estate and its lochans.  

What your kids will love: Inchree Forest is a haven for elusive red squirrels. Keep your eyes peeled on the treetops to spot these famous residents climbing, scuttling, and balancing on branches.

) [2] => Array ( [title] => Maclean's Towel [content] =>

Distance: 6 miles (10km)    

Ascent: 2,450ft (760m)    

A ferry ride takes us to the Ardgour Peninsula, where we’ll climb the side of the spectacular Maclean’s Towel waterfall to the summit of Meall Breac.  

What your kids will love: Check the water’s still flowing from the waterfall. It’s said that the Macleans will only rule over Ardgour until the water runs dry.  

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Distance: 7 miles (11.5km)    

Ascent: 2,750ft (840m)    

This walk initially follows the same route as option three but continues past Maclean's Towel waterfall onto the summit of Sgurr na h-Eanchainne at just over 700 metres high.  

What your kids will love: Take on the challenge and climb to the top - you’ll have bragging rights all day long.  

 

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Distance: 3.5 miles (6km)    

Ascent: 100ft (40m)    

We’ll set sail on the Corran Ferry to the Ardgour peninsula – only a 5-minute journey away. Here we’ll explore the grounds of the Ardgour Estate, home to the Maclean clan for the last 600 years. There’s plenty to see, including a group of lochans (small lochs) formed by glaciers 10,000 years ago.  

What your kids will love: Imagine what life was like under the rule of ‘Strong Donald the Hunter’, the first Maclean of Ardgour, who overcame the MacMasters clan to secure the land. Search for their tartan colours and have a go at drawing your own. 

) [1] => Array ( [title] => Inchree Forest and the Ardgour Estate [content] =>

Distance: 6.5 miles (10.5km)    

Ascent: 500ft (160m)    

Embark on a fabulous walk passing abandoned quarries and into the woodland trails of Inchree Forest, where there’s plenty of wildlife to spot. In the afternoon we’ll hop aboard the Corran Ferry to explore the Ardgour Estate and its lochans.  

What your kids will love: Inchree Forest is a haven for elusive red squirrels. Keep your eyes peeled on the treetops to spot these famous residents climbing, scuttling, and balancing on branches.

) [2] => Array ( [title] => Maclean's Towel [content] =>

Distance: 6 miles (10km)    

Ascent: 2,450ft (760m)    

A ferry ride takes us to the Ardgour Peninsula, where we’ll climb the side of the spectacular Maclean’s Towel waterfall to the summit of Meall Breac.  

What your kids will love: Check the water’s still flowing from the waterfall. It’s said that the Macleans will only rule over Ardgour until the water runs dry.  

) [3] => Array ( [title] => Sgurr na h-Eanchainne [content] =>

Distance: 7 miles (11.5km)    

Ascent: 2,750ft (840m)    

This walk initially follows the same route as option three but continues past Maclean's Towel waterfall onto the summit of Sgurr na h-Eanchainne at just over 700 metres high.  

What your kids will love: Take on the challenge and climb to the top - you’ll have bragging rights all day long.  

 

) ) ) )
Option 1 - Ardgour Estate

Distance: 3.5 miles (6km)    

Ascent: 100ft (40m)    

We’ll set sail on the Corran Ferry to the Ardgour peninsula – only a 5-minute journey away. Here we’ll explore the grounds of the Ardgour Estate, home to the Maclean clan for the last 600 years. There’s plenty to see, including a group of lochans (small lochs) formed by glaciers 10,000 years ago.  

What your kids will love: Imagine what life was like under the rule of ‘Strong Donald the Hunter’, the first Maclean of Ardgour, who overcame the MacMasters clan to secure the land. Search for their tartan colours and have a go at drawing your own. 

Option 2 - Inchree Forest and the Ardgour Estate

Distance: 6.5 miles (10.5km)    

Ascent: 500ft (160m)    

Embark on a fabulous walk passing abandoned quarries and into the woodland trails of Inchree Forest, where there’s plenty of wildlife to spot. In the afternoon we’ll hop aboard the Corran Ferry to explore the Ardgour Estate and its lochans.  

What your kids will love: Inchree Forest is a haven for elusive red squirrels. Keep your eyes peeled on the treetops to spot these famous residents climbing, scuttling, and balancing on branches.

Option 3 - Maclean's Towel

Distance: 6 miles (10km)    

Ascent: 2,450ft (760m)    

A ferry ride takes us to the Ardgour Peninsula, where we’ll climb the side of the spectacular Maclean’s Towel waterfall to the summit of Meall Breac.  

What your kids will love: Check the water’s still flowing from the waterfall. It’s said that the Macleans will only rule over Ardgour until the water runs dry.  

Option 4 - Sgurr na h-Eanchainne

Distance: 7 miles (11.5km)    

Ascent: 2,750ft (840m)    

This walk initially follows the same route as option three but continues past Maclean's Towel waterfall onto the summit of Sgurr na h-Eanchainne at just over 700 metres high.  

What your kids will love: Take on the challenge and climb to the top - you’ll have bragging rights all day long.  

 

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                    [title] => Inverlochy to Nevis Gondola
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Distance: 4.5 miles (7km)    

Ascent: 550ft (160m)    

From the ruins of Old Inverlochy Castle we head up towards the towering mountains and through the forests of Glen Domhanaidh. When we arrive at the Nevis Range we’ll ride the gondola for wow-worthy views of nearby mountains and lochs. 

What your kids will love: Spotting Loch Linnhe and Loch Eil below your feet. Fun fact: the Nevis Range Mountain Gondola can carry 1,700 people per hour up and down the slopes of Aonach Mòr, the eighth highest mountain in Britain. 

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Distance: 6.5 miles (10km)    

Ascent: 1,400ft (420m)    

A longer version of option one, stamina is required as we ascend to the edge of Gleann Domhanaidh. It’s worth the effort though as the viewpoint allows us to take in the amazing scenery all around. We wind our way back through the forest to the Nevis Range where we’ll have opportunity to ride the gondola. 

What your kids will love: Coming face to face with Britain’s highest mountain, Ben Nevis, from the viewpoint. Gaze up at the north face from the viewpoint. 

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Distance: 4.5 miles (7km)    

Ascent: 2,000ft (600m)    

The gondola helps us ascend the first 650m today, however our feet will do the rest. This walk takes us to the summit of Aonach Mòr. At an altitude of 4,006ft (1,220m), Aonach Mòr is a significant peak - the eighth highest in Britain.  

What your kids will love: Spying the Grey Corries – these four peaks are named after the colour of the quartzite from which they are made. The peaks are Sgurr Choinnich Mor, Stob Choire Claurigh, Stob Coire an Laoigh, and Stob Ban. Try saying those quickly. 

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Distance: 6.5 miles (10.5km)    

Ascent: 3,050ft (920m)    

Starting at the top of the gondola, this is a challenging and rough mountain walk, which bags the summits of Aonach Mòr and Aonach Beag - Scotland's seventh and eighth highest peaks.  

What your kids will love: Casting your mind back 410 million years ago when Ben Nevis was still an active volcano. It’s believed the rock you see on the north face is a result of immense volcanic eruptions.  

 

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Distance: 4.5 miles (7km)    

Ascent: 550ft (160m)    

From the ruins of Old Inverlochy Castle we head up towards the towering mountains and through the forests of Glen Domhanaidh. When we arrive at the Nevis Range we’ll ride the gondola for wow-worthy views of nearby mountains and lochs. 

What your kids will love: Spotting Loch Linnhe and Loch Eil below your feet. Fun fact: the Nevis Range Mountain Gondola can carry 1,700 people per hour up and down the slopes of Aonach Mòr, the eighth highest mountain in Britain. 

) [1] => Array ( [title] => Gleann Domhanaidh Forest [content] =>

Distance: 6.5 miles (10km)    

Ascent: 1,400ft (420m)    

A longer version of option one, stamina is required as we ascend to the edge of Gleann Domhanaidh. It’s worth the effort though as the viewpoint allows us to take in the amazing scenery all around. We wind our way back through the forest to the Nevis Range where we’ll have opportunity to ride the gondola. 

What your kids will love: Coming face to face with Britain’s highest mountain, Ben Nevis, from the viewpoint. Gaze up at the north face from the viewpoint. 

) [2] => Array ( [title] => Aonach Mòr [content] =>

Distance: 4.5 miles (7km)    

Ascent: 2,000ft (600m)    

The gondola helps us ascend the first 650m today, however our feet will do the rest. This walk takes us to the summit of Aonach Mòr. At an altitude of 4,006ft (1,220m), Aonach Mòr is a significant peak - the eighth highest in Britain.  

What your kids will love: Spying the Grey Corries – these four peaks are named after the colour of the quartzite from which they are made. The peaks are Sgurr Choinnich Mor, Stob Choire Claurigh, Stob Coire an Laoigh, and Stob Ban. Try saying those quickly. 

) [3] => Array ( [title] => Aonach Mòr and Aonach Beag [content] =>

Distance: 6.5 miles (10.5km)    

Ascent: 3,050ft (920m)    

Starting at the top of the gondola, this is a challenging and rough mountain walk, which bags the summits of Aonach Mòr and Aonach Beag - Scotland's seventh and eighth highest peaks.  

What your kids will love: Casting your mind back 410 million years ago when Ben Nevis was still an active volcano. It’s believed the rock you see on the north face is a result of immense volcanic eruptions.  

 

) ) ) )
Option 1 - Inverlochy to Nevis Gondola

Distance: 4.5 miles (7km)    

Ascent: 550ft (160m)    

From the ruins of Old Inverlochy Castle we head up towards the towering mountains and through the forests of Glen Domhanaidh. When we arrive at the Nevis Range we’ll ride the gondola for wow-worthy views of nearby mountains and lochs. 

What your kids will love: Spotting Loch Linnhe and Loch Eil below your feet. Fun fact: the Nevis Range Mountain Gondola can carry 1,700 people per hour up and down the slopes of Aonach Mòr, the eighth highest mountain in Britain. 

Option 2 - Aonach Mòr

Distance: 4.5 miles (7km)    

Ascent: 2,000ft (600m)    

The gondola helps us ascend the first 650m today, however our feet will do the rest. This walk takes us to the summit of Aonach Mòr. At an altitude of 4,006ft (1,220m), Aonach Mòr is a significant peak - the eighth highest in Britain.  

What your kids will love: Spying the Grey Corries – these four peaks are named after the colour of the quartzite from which they are made. The peaks are Sgurr Choinnich Mor, Stob Choire Claurigh, Stob Coire an Laoigh, and Stob Ban. Try saying those quickly. 

Option 3 - Gleann Domhanaidh Forest

Distance: 6.5 miles (10km)    

Ascent: 1,400ft (420m)    

A longer version of option one, stamina is required as we ascend to the edge of Gleann Domhanaidh. It’s worth the effort though as the viewpoint allows us to take in the amazing scenery all around. We wind our way back through the forest to the Nevis Range where we’ll have opportunity to ride the gondola. 

What your kids will love: Coming face to face with Britain’s highest mountain, Ben Nevis, from the viewpoint. Gaze up at the north face from the viewpoint. 

Option 4 - Aonach Mòr and Aonach Beag

Distance: 6.5 miles (10.5km)    

Ascent: 3,050ft (920m)    

Starting at the top of the gondola, this is a challenging and rough mountain walk, which bags the summits of Aonach Mòr and Aonach Beag - Scotland's seventh and eighth highest peaks.  

What your kids will love: Casting your mind back 410 million years ago when Ben Nevis was still an active volcano. It’s believed the rock you see on the north face is a result of immense volcanic eruptions.  

 

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    [title] => Ben Nevis and Nearby
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                    [title] => Glen Nevis
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Distance: 5.5 miles (9km)    

Ascent: 250ft (80m)    

It’s downhill all the way as we walk from Glen Nevis to Fort William. There are waterfalls to enjoy and wildlife to spot on route. 

What your kids will love: Waiting with anticipation to hear the chug-chugging of the steam-powered train (the one from Harry Potter) arriving into Fort William. 

) [1] => Array ( [title] => Nevis Gorge [content] =>

Distance: 8 miles (12.5km)    

Ascent: 700ft (220m)    

We’ll snake our way through Nevis Gorge keeping an eye on Ben Nevis high above us. Enjoy the calm of this wooded gorge, where the torrent churns between giant boulders.  

What your kids will love: Crossing the river on a wire-rope bridge – only for those brave enough. 

) [2] => Array ( [title] => Below the North Face [content] =>

Distance: 9 miles (14km)    

Ascent: 2,600ft (800m)    

Set your sights on the climbers’ hut that sits below the mighty north face of Ben Nevis as you begin climbing up and up. Then once we reach it, we’ll contour below the Castle Ridge buttress and descend via the Pony Track to Glen Nevis.  

What your kids will love: Looking out for rock climbers on the famed towering cliffs of Ben Nevis’ north face.  

) [3] => Array ( [title] => Ben Nevis [content] =>

Distance: 10 miles (16.5km)    

Ascent: 4,500ft (1,380m)    

Today we take on Britain’s highest mountain - Ben Nevis. It’s a challenging, zig-zagging climb to the summit, but it’s a walk to remember.  

What your kids will love: The thrill of being the highest person in Britain, if only for a few moments. 

) ) [shared] => Array ( [content] => Array ( [0] => Array ( [title] => Glen Nevis [content] =>

Distance: 5.5 miles (9km)    

Ascent: 250ft (80m)    

It’s downhill all the way as we walk from Glen Nevis to Fort William. There are waterfalls to enjoy and wildlife to spot on route. 

What your kids will love: Waiting with anticipation to hear the chug-chugging of the steam-powered train (the one from Harry Potter) arriving into Fort William. 

) [1] => Array ( [title] => Nevis Gorge [content] =>

Distance: 8 miles (12.5km)    

Ascent: 700ft (220m)    

We’ll snake our way through Nevis Gorge keeping an eye on Ben Nevis high above us. Enjoy the calm of this wooded gorge, where the torrent churns between giant boulders.  

What your kids will love: Crossing the river on a wire-rope bridge – only for those brave enough. 

) [2] => Array ( [title] => Below the North Face [content] =>

Distance: 9 miles (14km)    

Ascent: 2,600ft (800m)    

Set your sights on the climbers’ hut that sits below the mighty north face of Ben Nevis as you begin climbing up and up. Then once we reach it, we’ll contour below the Castle Ridge buttress and descend via the Pony Track to Glen Nevis.  

What your kids will love: Looking out for rock climbers on the famed towering cliffs of Ben Nevis’ north face.  

) [3] => Array ( [title] => Ben Nevis [content] =>

Distance: 10 miles (16.5km)    

Ascent: 4,500ft (1,380m)    

Today we take on Britain’s highest mountain - Ben Nevis. It’s a challenging, zig-zagging climb to the summit, but it’s a walk to remember.  

What your kids will love: The thrill of being the highest person in Britain, if only for a few moments. 

) ) ) )
Option 1 - Glen Nevis

Distance: 5.5 miles (9km)    

Ascent: 250ft (80m)    

It’s downhill all the way as we walk from Glen Nevis to Fort William. There are waterfalls to enjoy and wildlife to spot on route. 

What your kids will love: Waiting with anticipation to hear the chug-chugging of the steam-powered train (the one from Harry Potter) arriving into Fort William. 

Option 2 - Nevis Gorge

Distance: 8 miles (12.5km)    

Ascent: 700ft (220m)    

We’ll snake our way through Nevis Gorge keeping an eye on Ben Nevis high above us. Enjoy the calm of this wooded gorge, where the torrent churns between giant boulders.  

What your kids will love: Crossing the river on a wire-rope bridge – only for those brave enough. 

Option 3 - Below the North Face

Distance: 9 miles (14km)    

Ascent: 2,600ft (800m)    

Set your sights on the climbers’ hut that sits below the mighty north face of Ben Nevis as you begin climbing up and up. Then once we reach it, we’ll contour below the Castle Ridge buttress and descend via the Pony Track to Glen Nevis.  

What your kids will love: Looking out for rock climbers on the famed towering cliffs of Ben Nevis’ north face.  

Option 4 - Ben Nevis

Distance: 10 miles (16.5km)    

Ascent: 4,500ft (1,380m)    

Today we take on Britain’s highest mountain - Ben Nevis. It’s a challenging, zig-zagging climb to the summit, but it’s a walk to remember.  

What your kids will love: The thrill of being the highest person in Britain, if only for a few moments. 

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Distance: 4 miles (7km)   

Ascent: 600ft (180m)    

We’ll walk around ‘Hospital Lochan’ today, a loch surrounded by enormous redwood trees where we’ll have plenty of time to enjoy the views. Then it’s onwards to the Glen Coe visitor centre to discover the history of Glen Coe and the Clan MacDonald. 

What your kids will love: Travelling back in time as you look inside the replica 17th century turf and creel house at the visitor centre. Imagine living at a time of clans and feuds. Fun fact: they used 3,500 handmade wooden pegs to build the house. 

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Distance: 8 miles (13km)    

Ascent: 1,200ft (360m)    

Learn about Glen Coe's turbulent history as we follow woodland paths to the scenic ‘Hospital Lochan’ and onto Signal Rock, the gathering point for the MacDonalds of Glen Coe in times of emergency.  

What your kids will love: The surrounding woods are home to goldcrests, blue tits, great tits, robins, siskins, woodpeckers, and tawny owls. Bring a notebook and try to draw your findings. 

 

) [2] => Array ( [title] => Buachaille Etive Beag [content] =>

Distance: 6 miles (10km)    

Ascent: 3,050ft (940m)    

You’ll need plenty of energy today as we set off for the ridge of Buachaille Etive Beag. Starting from Glen Coe, we'll follow a good path to the ridge and visit both Stob Coire Raineach and Stob Dubh before returning to the valley below. 

What your kids will love: Climbing over 3,000ft and bagging one of Scotland’s mighty Munros. The sense of achievement is exhilarating. 

 

) [3] => Array ( [title] => Buachaille Etive Mor [content] =>

Distance: 8.5 miles (14km)    

Ascent: 3,850ft (1180m)    

Ascend steeply from Glen Coe up a rocky path through Coire Altruim onto Buachaille Etive Mor. We'll head to the summit of Stob na Broige, before following the undulating ridge to the summit of Stob Dearg where there's an eagle’s eye view over Rannoch Moor and Glen Coe stretching out beneath. 

What your kids will love: Keeping your eyes on the sky in search of golden eagles as they soar high about the mountain tops. Amazingly, they can live for 23 years, and their wingspan stretches an incredible 2.1 metres. 

) ) [shared] => Array ( [content] => Array ( [0] => Array ( [title] => Hospital Lochan [content] =>

Distance: 4 miles (7km)   

Ascent: 600ft (180m)    

We’ll walk around ‘Hospital Lochan’ today, a loch surrounded by enormous redwood trees where we’ll have plenty of time to enjoy the views. Then it’s onwards to the Glen Coe visitor centre to discover the history of Glen Coe and the Clan MacDonald. 

What your kids will love: Travelling back in time as you look inside the replica 17th century turf and creel house at the visitor centre. Imagine living at a time of clans and feuds. Fun fact: they used 3,500 handmade wooden pegs to build the house. 

) [1] => Array ( [title] => Historic Glen Coe [content] =>

Distance: 8 miles (13km)    

Ascent: 1,200ft (360m)    

Learn about Glen Coe's turbulent history as we follow woodland paths to the scenic ‘Hospital Lochan’ and onto Signal Rock, the gathering point for the MacDonalds of Glen Coe in times of emergency.  

What your kids will love: The surrounding woods are home to goldcrests, blue tits, great tits, robins, siskins, woodpeckers, and tawny owls. Bring a notebook and try to draw your findings. 

 

) [2] => Array ( [title] => Buachaille Etive Beag [content] =>

Distance: 6 miles (10km)    

Ascent: 3,050ft (940m)    

You’ll need plenty of energy today as we set off for the ridge of Buachaille Etive Beag. Starting from Glen Coe, we'll follow a good path to the ridge and visit both Stob Coire Raineach and Stob Dubh before returning to the valley below. 

What your kids will love: Climbing over 3,000ft and bagging one of Scotland’s mighty Munros. The sense of achievement is exhilarating. 

 

) [3] => Array ( [title] => Buachaille Etive Mor [content] =>

Distance: 8.5 miles (14km)    

Ascent: 3,850ft (1180m)    

Ascend steeply from Glen Coe up a rocky path through Coire Altruim onto Buachaille Etive Mor. We'll head to the summit of Stob na Broige, before following the undulating ridge to the summit of Stob Dearg where there's an eagle’s eye view over Rannoch Moor and Glen Coe stretching out beneath. 

What your kids will love: Keeping your eyes on the sky in search of golden eagles as they soar high about the mountain tops. Amazingly, they can live for 23 years, and their wingspan stretches an incredible 2.1 metres. 

) ) ) )
Option 1 - Hospital Lochan

Distance: 4 miles (7km)   

Ascent: 600ft (180m)    

We’ll walk around ‘Hospital Lochan’ today, a loch surrounded by enormous redwood trees where we’ll have plenty of time to enjoy the views. Then it’s onwards to the Glen Coe visitor centre to discover the history of Glen Coe and the Clan MacDonald. 

What your kids will love: Travelling back in time as you look inside the replica 17th century turf and creel house at the visitor centre. Imagine living at a time of clans and feuds. Fun fact: they used 3,500 handmade wooden pegs to build the house. 

Option 2 - Historic Glen Coe

Distance: 8 miles (13km)    

Ascent: 1,200ft (360m)    

Learn about Glen Coe's turbulent history as we follow woodland paths to the scenic ‘Hospital Lochan’ and onto Signal Rock, the gathering point for the MacDonalds of Glen Coe in times of emergency.  

What your kids will love: The surrounding woods are home to goldcrests, blue tits, great tits, robins, siskins, woodpeckers, and tawny owls. Bring a notebook and try to draw your findings. 

 

Option 3 - Buachaille Etive Beag

Distance: 6 miles (10km)    

Ascent: 3,050ft (940m)    

You’ll need plenty of energy today as we set off for the ridge of Buachaille Etive Beag. Starting from Glen Coe, we'll follow a good path to the ridge and visit both Stob Coire Raineach and Stob Dubh before returning to the valley below. 

What your kids will love: Climbing over 3,000ft and bagging one of Scotland’s mighty Munros. The sense of achievement is exhilarating. 

 

Option 4 - Buachaille Etive Mor

Distance: 8.5 miles (14km)    

Ascent: 3,850ft (1180m)    

Ascend steeply from Glen Coe up a rocky path through Coire Altruim onto Buachaille Etive Mor. We'll head to the summit of Stob na Broige, before following the undulating ridge to the summit of Stob Dearg where there's an eagle’s eye view over Rannoch Moor and Glen Coe stretching out beneath. 

What your kids will love: Keeping your eyes on the sky in search of golden eagles as they soar high about the mountain tops. Amazingly, they can live for 23 years, and their wingspan stretches an incredible 2.1 metres. 

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    [title] => Mountains & Tracks Around Kinlochleven
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Distance: 5 miles (8.5km)

Ascent: 950ft (280m)

We’ll start by the old Aluminium Works in Kinlochleven where water flows down from the Blackwater Reservoir to power the turbines. We will then visit the many waterfalls of the River Leven, before going to the base of Grey Mare’s Tail waterfall. Joining the West Highland Way, we’ll enjoy magnificent views of Loch Leven before heading back to Kinlochleven.

What your kids will love: Looking up at Grey Mare’s Waterfall, one of the UK's highest, which plunges 60m down into the Moffat Water Valley.

) [1] => Array ( [title] => Mamore Lodge and Grey Mare's Waterfall [content] =>

Distance: 6 miles (10km)

Ascent: 1450ft (440m)

The sight of Grey Mare’s Tail Waterfall plunging 60m into the valley will stop you in your tracks. Not only that, but there are also far-reaching views over the lochs and peaks of this nature reserve.  

We’ll then join the Old Military Road along the flanks of Sgurr an Fhuarain, stopping at even more fine viewpoints, before heading back to Kinlochleven.

What your kids will love: Marching along the old road and learning about General George Wade and the Jacobite Rebellion.

) [2] => Array ( [title] => The Lairigmor [content] =>

Distance: 8 miles (13km)

Ascent: 2050ft (620m)

We’’ll walk from the northern shore of Loch Leven to the village of Kinlochleven. The route will take us up a steep hillside, then follow a path behind Mam na Gualainn to join the famed West Highland Way. We’ll complete a section of Scotland’s premier long-distance path, including part of General Wade’s 18th century military road. 

What your kids will love: Marching along the old road and learning about General George Wade and the Jacobite Rebellion.

) [3] => Array ( [title] => Na Gruagaichean [content] =>

Distance: 8.5 miles (13.5km)

Ascent: 3,800ft (1160m)

With 10 Munro summits, the rugged Mamore ridge contains some of Scotland's finest mountain walking. We’ll take in a small part of it, climbing past Grey Mare’s Tail waterfall onto the Mamore mountains from where the wild and fierce landscape opens up before us.  

We’ll traverse a high-level ridge walk, which links the summits of Sgorr Eilde Beag and Na Gruagaichean, before descending the southern spur of the mountain back to Kinlochleven. 

What your kids will love: The top-of-the-world views over the surrounding landscape from Sgorr Eilde Beag.

) ) [shared] => Array ( [content] => Array ( [0] => Array ( [title] => Views and Waterfalls around Kinlochleven [content] =>

Distance: 5 miles (8.5km)

Ascent: 950ft (280m)

We’ll start by the old Aluminium Works in Kinlochleven where water flows down from the Blackwater Reservoir to power the turbines. We will then visit the many waterfalls of the River Leven, before going to the base of Grey Mare’s Tail waterfall. Joining the West Highland Way, we’ll enjoy magnificent views of Loch Leven before heading back to Kinlochleven.

What your kids will love: Looking up at Grey Mare’s Waterfall, one of the UK's highest, which plunges 60m down into the Moffat Water Valley.

) [1] => Array ( [title] => Mamore Lodge and Grey Mare's Waterfall [content] =>

Distance: 6 miles (10km)

Ascent: 1450ft (440m)

The sight of Grey Mare’s Tail Waterfall plunging 60m into the valley will stop you in your tracks. Not only that, but there are also far-reaching views over the lochs and peaks of this nature reserve.  

We’ll then join the Old Military Road along the flanks of Sgurr an Fhuarain, stopping at even more fine viewpoints, before heading back to Kinlochleven.

What your kids will love: Marching along the old road and learning about General George Wade and the Jacobite Rebellion.

) [2] => Array ( [title] => The Lairigmor [content] =>

Distance: 8 miles (13km)

Ascent: 2050ft (620m)

We’’ll walk from the northern shore of Loch Leven to the village of Kinlochleven. The route will take us up a steep hillside, then follow a path behind Mam na Gualainn to join the famed West Highland Way. We’ll complete a section of Scotland’s premier long-distance path, including part of General Wade’s 18th century military road. 

What your kids will love: Marching along the old road and learning about General George Wade and the Jacobite Rebellion.

) [3] => Array ( [title] => Na Gruagaichean [content] =>

Distance: 8.5 miles (13.5km)

Ascent: 3,800ft (1160m)

With 10 Munro summits, the rugged Mamore ridge contains some of Scotland's finest mountain walking. We’ll take in a small part of it, climbing past Grey Mare’s Tail waterfall onto the Mamore mountains from where the wild and fierce landscape opens up before us.  

We’ll traverse a high-level ridge walk, which links the summits of Sgorr Eilde Beag and Na Gruagaichean, before descending the southern spur of the mountain back to Kinlochleven. 

What your kids will love: The top-of-the-world views over the surrounding landscape from Sgorr Eilde Beag.

) ) ) )
Option 1 - Views and Waterfalls around Kinlochleven

Distance: 5 miles (8.5km)

Ascent: 950ft (280m)

We’ll start by the old Aluminium Works in Kinlochleven where water flows down from the Blackwater Reservoir to power the turbines. We will then visit the many waterfalls of the River Leven, before going to the base of Grey Mare’s Tail waterfall. Joining the West Highland Way, we’ll enjoy magnificent views of Loch Leven before heading back to Kinlochleven.

What your kids will love: Looking up at Grey Mare’s Waterfall, one of the UK's highest, which plunges 60m down into the Moffat Water Valley.

Option 2 - Mamore Lodge and Grey Mare's Waterfall

Distance: 6 miles (10km)

Ascent: 1450ft (440m)

The sight of Grey Mare’s Tail Waterfall plunging 60m into the valley will stop you in your tracks. Not only that, but there are also far-reaching views over the lochs and peaks of this nature reserve.  

We’ll then join the Old Military Road along the flanks of Sgurr an Fhuarain, stopping at even more fine viewpoints, before heading back to Kinlochleven.

What your kids will love: Marching along the old road and learning about General George Wade and the Jacobite Rebellion.

Option 3 - The Lairigmor

Distance: 8 miles (13km)

Ascent: 2050ft (620m)

We’’ll walk from the northern shore of Loch Leven to the village of Kinlochleven. The route will take us up a steep hillside, then follow a path behind Mam na Gualainn to join the famed West Highland Way. We’ll complete a section of Scotland’s premier long-distance path, including part of General Wade’s 18th century military road. 

What your kids will love: Marching along the old road and learning about General George Wade and the Jacobite Rebellion.

Option 4 - Na Gruagaichean

Distance: 8.5 miles (13.5km)

Ascent: 3,800ft (1160m)

With 10 Munro summits, the rugged Mamore ridge contains some of Scotland's finest mountain walking. We’ll take in a small part of it, climbing past Grey Mare’s Tail waterfall onto the Mamore mountains from where the wild and fierce landscape opens up before us.  

We’ll traverse a high-level ridge walk, which links the summits of Sgorr Eilde Beag and Na Gruagaichean, before descending the southern spur of the mountain back to Kinlochleven. 

What your kids will love: The top-of-the-world views over the surrounding landscape from Sgorr Eilde Beag.

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Accommodation

Alltshellach, Glencoe

For a combination of mountain views, olde-worlde charm, and somewhere comfortable to sleep, this stately Scottish house in North Ballachulish has an enviable setting right on the shores of Loch Leven. The walking opportunities here are as every bit rugged and romantic as you’d expect, especially around Glen Coe, the Mamores, Kinlochleven, Bidean nam Bian, and Ben Nevis – the 1,345-metre-high peak towering above glistening lochans and glacial valleys in the north-west Highlands. You can also spend time in Fort William and ride the Hogwarts-esque Jacobite steam train as it makes its way through beauty spots such as Loch Eil, Glenfinnan, and Arisaig to the fishing port of Mallaig.

A warm welcome
We want you to feel comfortable from the moment you arrive. You’ll find a welcome pack in your room with guest registration forms, menus, order forms for dinners and picnic lunches, the Wi-Fi password, and the front door code. Our houses are locked at night, so we recommend noting the Duty Manager’s number on arrival in case of an emergency (or getting locked out). 

Evening entertainment

While evening entertainment varies from house to house, HF Holidays Inter-House Quiz night held after dinner on Wednesdays is a weekly staple. Your HF Holidays leader may be around for tips on guided and self-guided waking routes as well as visit-worthy local attractions.

Walks talks 
Our HF Holidays walk leaders host guided walking information briefings before dinner on guided walking holiday arrival days. This is followed by a group Walks Talk for information on the following day’s guided walks (held before dinner every evening). Self-guided walking guests are, of course, welcome.  

The walking day
Prior to setting off on guided walks, your HF Holidays Leader will run you through a short safety briefing. There’s also an up-to-date weather forecast on display at the house to ensure you have appropriate clothing and footwear. If you choose to do your own walks or are on a self-guided walking holiday, we ask that you please complete an Independent Walker Card each day. These can be found near the Discovery Point in the house. 

You are welcome to check in from 4pm at the earliest. HF Members can check in earlier, from 2pm. On arrival, you’ll enjoy a complimentary cream tea and get to meet your fellow guests, our HF Holidays Leaders, and the rest of the friendly team. Check out 10am.

  •  38 well-appointed guest rooms  •  Exclusive occupancy: 53 guests minimum  •  Check in from 4:00pm • For members check in from 2:00pm •  Full-board (including cream tea on arrival)  •  Free Wi-Fi  •  Free on-site parking  •  Boot room and drying room  •  2 travel cots & 2 high chairs  •  Discovery Point offering a wide range of local area maps, route guides, and information for self-guided walks  •  Indoor pool •  Books and games to borrow  •  Licensed bar  •  Three lounges  •  Lawns and wooded grounds leading down to Loch Leven  •  Electric vehicle charging point - Please note, you will need to bring your own cables to use this EV charging point

The pool opening hours: 7am -12pm and 4:30pm-9pm

Seasonal dining, tailored for you

Our team of skilled chefs design our dinner menus to showcase the best of each season, from warming winter comfort food to vibrant summer dishes, including vegetarian, vegan  and high-protein options. We also source fruit and vegetables within a  40-mile radius of each house, open every break with a Chef’s Special menu inspired by dishes and flavours of the local area, and are able to adapt dishes to suit special dietary requirements.

Welcome Cream Tea

What better way to start your stay than with a cream tea, served fresh on arrival to make you feel instantly at home.  A quintessentially English tradition, our scones are baked in-house and served with preserves and clotted cream, providing the perfect opportunity to meet fellow walkers.

A hearty breakfast to start the day

Start the day with a freshly-prepared cooked breakfast  and a wide choice from our continental buffet, including  hot drinks, juices and fresh fruit. Our team offer a quick  and friendly service, leaving you fuelled and ready for your day’s adventures.

Our famous picnic lunch

Our personalised picnic lunches are perfect for a day out walking, ready to enjoy when hunger strikes. Choose from a large selection of fresh sandwiches and salads, freshly baked cakes and snacks, including the ever-popular Freddos chocolate bar! Everything is designed to fit neatly into your rucksack, and all of the packaging we provide is recyclable or compostable.

3-course evening meals

Our à la carte evening menus feature a wide choice of starters, mains, and desserts, made with seasonal ingredients and, wherever possible, herbs and vegetables from our own gardens. Shared around sociable tables, dinners are relaxed occasions, with drinks available to order at the table or from the bar, and a traditional Sunday roast to round off the week.

Designed with your comfort in mind, Alltshellach has 38 well-appointed guest rooms available in three categories: Classic, Premium, and Superior. 

Classic Rooms are comfortable en-suite guest rooms, ideal for a peaceful night's sleep. Amenities include free Wi-Fi, tea and coffee-making facilities, toiletries (hand wash, shampoo, and shower gel), and a TV. 

Premium Rooms are more spacious en-suite guest rooms*. Amenities include free Wi-Fi, tea and coffee-making facilities, toiletries (hand wash, shampoo, body lotion, shower gel), and a 32-inch TV. Extras include bathrobes, slippers.

Superior Rooms are even more spacious en-suite guest rooms offering upgraded views of the surroundings*. Amenities include free Wi-Fi, tea and coffee-making facilities, toiletries (hand wash, shampoo, body lotion, shower gel), and a 32-inch TV. Extras include bathrobes, slippers.

We love: Room 21 for its extra space, corner position, and gorgeous views across Loch Leven. Equally fabulous is Room 23 (known as the Bishop’s Room) on the second floor. 

The Choose Your Room service is available at our UK country houses, allowing you the option of choosing and confirming a specific room for an extra charge of £30 per room. This is subject to availability. Upgrade supplements apply.   

Room supplements

Superior Premium single Premium double/twin Choose your room
£25 pppn £20 pppn £20 pppn £30 per room

 

*Views and layout reflect each properties unique character and location 

*Please note, pool opening hours are: 07:00am – 09:00am 16:00pm – 18:30pm

For accessibility and assistance information, please contact our expert team on 020 3974 8865 or view the accessibility information online for Alltshellach

Getting here

Address

Alltshellach
Onich
Fort William
Invernesshire PH33 6SA

Tel: +44 (0)1855 821357

NEW: Return Flights from London Heathrow to Glasgow, plus airport transfers to Alltshellach only £350pp. Call us to book

By shared transfer

If you are travelling to or from Alltshellach on Saturdays or over the festive period you can join our group coach transfer from Glasgow's Buchanan Street Bus Station or Glasgow Airport. 

2026 prices are £85 per person for a return transfer or £55 per person for a single transfer.

Outward journey: Depart Glasgow Buchanan Street Bus Station at 15:15 or Glasgow Airport at 15:45; arrive at Alltshellach at 18:30.

Return journey: Depart Alltshellach at 08:30; arrive at Glasgow Airport at 11:30 or Glasgow Buchanan Street Bus Station at 12:00.

Places are limited so booking is essential. We recommend booking at least 14 days in advance by contacting:

HF Holidays Sales and Support Team
Tel: +44 (0)203 974 8865
Email: reservations@hfholidays.co.uk

By train

The nearest station is Fort William. 

Or you can take the train to Glasgow then the Scottish Citylink bus or our group coach transfer to Alltshellach.  

Check National Rail for train times and routes. 

By taxi

The journey from Glasgow city centre is 97 miles, which takes around 2.5 hours.

By bus

Scottish Citylink bus numbers 914 or 915 run from Glasgow Buchanan Street and Glasgow International Airport.  

Ask the driver to stop at the north side of Ballachulish Bridge. From here you’ll need to walk 400m to Alltshellach. 

By car

From Glasgow take the A82 towards Crianlarich then Fort William. Once you reach Ballachulish go straight on at the roundabout over the steel bridge and take the second right on to the B863 towards Kinlochleven. Alltshellach is 400 yards on your right. 

By air

The nearest airport is Glasgow International Airport.

You can take the Citylink bus 915 (2.5 hours) or join our group coach transfer (2.75 hours).

If you fly into Manchester Airport, there are direct and indirect trains to Glasgow. Approximate journey time is four hours plus your transfer to Alltshellach. 

More Information

The UK has a famously unpredictable climate so it's best to be prepared for weather that’s sunny one minute and raining the next.  To make it easier, here’s a list of items you should consider packing.   

Essentials  

  • Suitable footwear such as waterproof walking boots that provide ankle support and good grip  
  • Waterproof and windproof jacket 
  • Comfortable clothing (jeans & waterproof capes are not suitable)  
  • Mid-layer(s) to keep you warm. Fleeces make a good choice
  • Waterproof overtrousers  
  • Gloves and a warm hat  
  • Rucksack with waterproof liner 
  • Flask for hot drinks   
  • Water bottle (at least 1 litre capacity)  
  • Sunscreen  
  • UV sunglasses  

For holidays operating October through to the end of March, please also bring the following on your walks:

  • spare warm clothing
  • spare high energy food
  • head torch and spare batteries
  • please note for the October to March season your waterproof jacket needs to offer a high level of waterproofing and wind resistance, and a hood. Look for a waterproof jacket with sealed/taped seams and a minimum HH (hyrodstatic head - this is the rating given on waterproof jackets) of 10,000mm+

Recommended  

  • Several base layers (long-sleeve or short-sleeve)  
  • Cushioned walking socks to avoid blisters  
  • First aid kit, including plasters and insect repellent and tick remover tool
  • Sit mat   
  • Waterproof pouch for valuables  
  • Rubbish bag (remember to always leave no trace)  
  • Wallet/purse  
  • Camera
  • Walking poles

Who's the boss? Please note that parents are responsible for their children at all times; our leaders are not permitted to run activities without other adults present. All leaders undergo a thorough assessment so you can relax and enjoy your holiday knowing that you are in safe hands. 

On the first evening of your holiday, your leaders give a short talk about safety on walks which we would like you to attend. Walks may be changed for safety reasons and are subject to a maximum and a minimum number of guests. Leaders always consider the safety of the group as a whole and may need to alter or curtail the walk if the conditions dictate. Your leader may refuse to accept a guest while clothing, equipment, or behaviour is unsuitable. In the event of a problem, all leaders carry a mobile phone, first aid kit, group shelter, spare maps, and a compass.

Please note: If you choose to leave the group your leader is no longer responsible for you.

If you have a particular health condition or disability please put this on your guest registration form. This information will be confidential to your leaders and the house manager, but leaders do need to take account of any issues when planning walks.

Kids on their own: Any teenager aged 14 years or over can leave you at the starting line and join a walk unaccompanied on the basis they can look after themselves. Children under 14 will need to be accompanied by an adult on walks; however, this does not need to be a parent or legal guardian. 

Please note, coaches used on this holiday all comply with UK law, and may not have seat belts suitable for children. Where children are under 3yrs of age, they must not travel in the front seat on coaches, nor or the back seat of coaches. For more information please visit: https://www.gov.uk/child-car-seats-the-rules/when-a-child-can-travel-without-a-car-seat  

Carbon Footprint - 147kg CO2

We see it as our responsibility to minimise our emissions, not just for this year but every year to come. Our work with sustainability experts, ecollective, has enabled us to measure our carbon footprint and create a strategy to reduce the carbon intensity of our product by 5% each year. Our ambition is to be net zero by 2040 – earlier if we can.

Learn more

Code: GLC07-FAM01

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7 Night Scottish Highlands Family Walking Adventure

Members save an additional £30 on this booking and get a range of other exclusive benefits. Add HF Membership to your booking online. Read more about membership
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Trusted British co-operative

We are proud to be Britain’s only walking holiday co-operative. Led by almost 40,000 members, offering hundreds of holidays across the UK and overseas, with all surplus being reinvested back into our Society.

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Flexible choice of guided walks

Experienced volunteer HF Leaders guide every walk at our UK country houses, offering up to three daily options. Making it easy to find a holiday to suit your ability, and with the flexibility to switch grades each walking day.

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Book early with confidence

Become an HF Member to benefit from our Price Pledge. Secure your first choice of holiday early, and if the cost drops after you book, we will automatically refund the difference (exc. travel agent, group and self-guided bookings).

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Book with confidence

If the flights we have organised are cancelled or changed, we’ll do everything we can to find alternative transport, with minimal disruption to your holiday

If we cancel your holiday, we honour all refund requests 

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Travel with confidence

We know that peace of mind is priceless, so we’ll always go above and beyond to meet – and exceed – expectations

If the flights we have organised are cancelled or changed, we’ll do everything we can to find alternative transport, with minimal disruption to your holiday

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HF Holidays

A British heritage brand with 111 years of experience

Offering a choice of over 260 itineraries in nearly 40 countries

Run as a co-operative with 40,000-plus members

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