West Highland Way
West Highland Way
4.5
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Well-marked walking path stretching from Glasgow to Fort William.
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- Caro O7 contributionsBrilliant Walk arranged by Gemini Walks!Our experience of the West Highland Way was 100% thanks to the phenomenal service provided by Gemini Walks. Julie and Michelle were excellent communicators, and placed us in beautiful accommodations with great hosts and excellent food. Julie went above and beyond to accommodate changes to my booking, stayed in touch as necessary while we were on the walk, and met our every expectation at a very reasonable price. I’ll use their service again for sure! Thanks Julie and Michelle - you deserve 10 stars!Visited April 2024Traveled with friendsWritten April 28, 2024
- Bob SColorado Springs, Colorado206 contributionsA hike, not a walk.We are seasoned distance walkers who live at high altitude and are in good shape. Let me just say this is pretty much a hike, not a walk. You will ford many streams, walk in lots of mud, probably get rained on and boulder hop. However, it is some of the most beautiful scenery ever. Distances between villages are long and you will be in some very remote areas. Make sure you are in good shape before you attempt this. It gets progressively harder for the first few stages.Visited April 2024Traveled as a coupleWritten June 13, 2024
- Olivier BChur, Switzerland20 contributionsNever recovered like thisThe trip on the West Highland Way was a great experience. The trail is excellently maintained and well signalled. The landscape is incredibly impressive and changes every few hours. We had booked through Maximum Adventure, and it all worked perfectly.Visited June 2024Traveled as a coupleWritten July 27, 2024
- Journey129879729851 contributionWHW - terrific service from Gemini WalksWe were looking for a last minute booking for the WHW as a 65th birthday treat, which most firms said would not be possible, but the fabulous team of Julie and colleagues at Gemini Walks managed to pull together a package at short notice - and then even rejigged our schedule once we had started and decided we wanted more time for the more remote second half of the walk. Gemini were a delight to deal with and incredibly well organised - we have no hesitation in recommending them as superb. The WHW itself is a very worthwhile hike. We much preferred the second half through more rugged landscapes and away from roads so if you are not wedded to doing the whole trail then one could start in Tyndrum and allow extra time for interesting side trip hikes away from the path and perhaps the odd summit or Munro along the way. Thank you Gemini!Visited July 2024Traveled as a coupleWritten July 29, 2024
- jkssigirlColorado Springs, Colorado7 contributionsHiking the HighlandsGemini Walks did an amazing job for us - everything was seamless. (Well, we did have to do the actual hiking….) Directions were thorough and correct, bags were always waiting for us, and the lodgings were great. I highly recommend letting them help you if you’re planning on doing this wonderful multi-day hike, the Scottish Highlands are beautiful!Visited September 2024Traveled with familyWritten September 11, 2024
- Caroline LinaresMadrid, Spain2 contributionsAn experience to rememberI had always dreamed of taking a hiking trip and what better place than the Scottish Highlands. The landscapes are just wonderful and walking was a unique way to get to know each corner calmly. At first, I confess, I had a lot of doubts, because at 62 I didn’t know if I would be able to make such a long journey. But I was encouraged and now I can't be happier that I did. We did the 8-day tour of South West Highland Way in August 2024, it was an amazing experience and made us a spectacular time. In the end, we decided to take a self-guided trip and hired the services of the company Orbis Ways, who organized everything: the accommodations, the itinerary and took our luggage from place to place. This allowed us to enjoy the walk without any worries and the accommodations were lovely, very welcoming and with that local touch that I loved. The stages were very well thought out, and were accessible even to me, who am not exactly an athlete. I enjoyed walking at my own pace, surrounded by mountains, green hills, beautiful lakes and breathing fresh air. Each day was more spectacular than the last. Also, the Orbis Ways team was very attentive, always available to answer my doubts, and that gave me a lot of security. If you have ever thought about taking a trip like this, I recommend it from the heart. Not only because of the beautifulness of the destination, but because doing so with the peace of mind that someone takes care of the details and will be available if any unforeseen arises. And if you have questions about whether to make this trip, like the ones I had, I encourage you to try because it is a destination that is really worthwhile. I hope you like it as much as I do!Visited August 2024Traveled as a coupleWritten October 22, 2024
- Catonbalt994 contributionsWHW and Gemini WalksUnforgettable hiking experience! The West Highland Way is a must-do. This iconic trail offers some of the most breathtaking landscapes in Scotland, with stunning views of rugged hills and serene lochs. Let's be clear, this is a hike and not a walk. I and my wife are in our 50s and found it challenging but very doable with preparation and some training. We hit the best week of weather Scotland had all year. This certainly impacted our experience. As for Gemini Walks, they offer an exceptional experience. Gemini Walks provides a fantastic way to tackle the West Highland Way with expert support. The accommodations were tailored to our desires. The team was very communicative and met every need. I have no reservation in recommending the group! Top 3 trips I have ever taken.Visited September 2024Traveled as a coupleWritten January 28, 2025
These reviews are the subjective opinion of Tripadvisor members and not of TripAdvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
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M P
4 contributions
Sep 2023 • Family
Loved our walk on the West Highland Way and loved the detailed plan put together for us by Gemini Walks. Ever place was expecting us, our bags were always there, places we stopped at based on GW recommendations were always as described.
Yes, it rained. Yes, it was windy. Yes, our shoes got wet. But, that's all part of the experience. A great way to see the Highlands. Don't rush yourself so you don't miss the sights.
Yes, it rained. Yes, it was windy. Yes, our shoes got wet. But, that's all part of the experience. A great way to see the Highlands. Don't rush yourself so you don't miss the sights.
Written October 9, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
AndyXB
Leeds, UK23 contributions
Jul 2021
We walked the West Highland Way (8 days) and continued on to walk the Great Glen Way (6 days). We chose Gemini Walks to organise the accommodation and baggage transfer on the recommendation of a friend. Originally booked for May 2020, Covid intervened and we had to reschedule twice before finally getting away in July 2021. Despite the huge amount of extra work this entailed, Julie and Michelle at Gemini did a superb job. Their cheerful, efficient support made the whole experience a delight and needless to say the accommodation and luggage transfers were top notch.
We had an information pack for each walk which included a map, detailed directions for each overnight stay including Covid precautions/regulations, and useful info for each day such as points of interest, brief history and essential phone numbers (pubs and taxi!). Our accommodation was a mix of B&B's, hotels and a chalet, all within staggering distance of a pub for an evening meal (though we had to book every one in advance to ensure a table, again due to the local Covid regulations in force at the time). The two baggage companies involved (Travel-lite and Loch Ness Hub) provided an excellent service and our cases were waiting for us on arrival every day. All in all a great holiday at a very competitive price. A massive thank you to Gemini for making it happen.
We had an information pack for each walk which included a map, detailed directions for each overnight stay including Covid precautions/regulations, and useful info for each day such as points of interest, brief history and essential phone numbers (pubs and taxi!). Our accommodation was a mix of B&B's, hotels and a chalet, all within staggering distance of a pub for an evening meal (though we had to book every one in advance to ensure a table, again due to the local Covid regulations in force at the time). The two baggage companies involved (Travel-lite and Loch Ness Hub) provided an excellent service and our cases were waiting for us on arrival every day. All in all a great holiday at a very competitive price. A massive thank you to Gemini for making it happen.
Written August 17, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
moretime4travel
Boston, MA16 contributions
Sep 2022
My daughter and I had decided at the last minute to plan a trip along the West Highland Way, something she had been thinking about for several years. After reading some reviews here, we chose Gemini Walks to plan the trip. We had booked the airfare before we planned the trip, and only had two weeks to go when we first spoke with Julie.
What a truly amazing experience. Starting with, "I'm not sure I can help as everything seems booked," we quickly changed to her working her magic. She planned all the details, worked out all the kinks, and took away all the worries. All in two weeks.
We shared photographs of our dogs, shared stories, and discussed sharing a "wee nip" at the end of our long days of planning.
The trip was perfect. The only flaw was that at one location we had to suffer through an upgrade to our room (much nicer than what we would have had), and that came along with a bottle of bubbly for our "inconvenience."
Julie knew all the details of all the inns as well as the trails and gave great advice; her emails in advance and afterwards made the planning actually fun!
The trip itself was wonderful. The hiking was easier than expected. A pot of tea or a pint after the day's hike was a great finishing touch. Anticipating rain and generally "dreich" weather, we didn't break out the raincoats until the last day when it rained for 20 minutes. The trail was surrounded by blackberry bushes which were ripe and delicious. The West Highland "coos" that stood in the middle of the trail as we walked by were great.
We had a marvellous trip and Gemini and Julie made it better. Recommend them extremely highly.
What a truly amazing experience. Starting with, "I'm not sure I can help as everything seems booked," we quickly changed to her working her magic. She planned all the details, worked out all the kinks, and took away all the worries. All in two weeks.
We shared photographs of our dogs, shared stories, and discussed sharing a "wee nip" at the end of our long days of planning.
The trip was perfect. The only flaw was that at one location we had to suffer through an upgrade to our room (much nicer than what we would have had), and that came along with a bottle of bubbly for our "inconvenience."
Julie knew all the details of all the inns as well as the trails and gave great advice; her emails in advance and afterwards made the planning actually fun!
The trip itself was wonderful. The hiking was easier than expected. A pot of tea or a pint after the day's hike was a great finishing touch. Anticipating rain and generally "dreich" weather, we didn't break out the raincoats until the last day when it rained for 20 minutes. The trail was surrounded by blackberry bushes which were ripe and delicious. The West Highland "coos" that stood in the middle of the trail as we walked by were great.
We had a marvellous trip and Gemini and Julie made it better. Recommend them extremely highly.
Written December 28, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Jonathan F
2 contributions
Sep 2022
My wife and I walked the second half of the WHW from Tyndrum to Fort William in mid September - it was an exception four days. Gorgeous landscapes, challenging but not exhausting hikes, delightful people on and off the trail and still plenty of solitude. Staying in B&Bs and using a porter service to move our bags day to day was the icing on the cake. It made for luxurious days on the trail and relaxing evenings and mornings off the trail. The balance of active outdoor time and creature comforts was perfect. We relied on Gemini Walks to organize all the details of the and I couldn’t recommend them more. Julie and her team made a million little logistical details invisible to us and all we had to do was enjoy the trip.
Written September 27, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Marta C
1 contribution
Jul 2023 • Couples
I walked the first 70km of the WHW and after that my boyfriend and I decided to stop and visit other places in Scotland. It was a simple not hard walk, but the view was not very nice, we walked a lot beside the road and the trail in the woods had no view! We hoped it was more scenic, we suggest you to visit most beautiful places in Scotland!
Written July 16, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
DLM544
Mexborough, UK125 contributions
Sep 2021 • Friends
I walked the WHW in Sept and this was my second time it felt easier this time mainly because I knew what to expect. The scenery goes without saying as some of the most beautiful in the World. The leg from Milngavie to Balmaha is possibly the easiest but the views are there to add the interest. We then walked from Balmaha to Inversnaid passing through Rowerdenan. Personally if I was to do it again I would stay at Rowerdennan just to break the walk up as it had started to get a little unsteady underfoot the walk from Rowerdennan to Inversnaid is a bit of a challenge as you are walking on rocks and if they are wet can be a little scary, my walking partner slipped and fell but luckily was able to continue, don’t expect to get a warm welcome at the Inversnaid hotel far from it no food is served to walkers and you are treated very much like a third class citizen but I must say this is the only place we came across that walkers are not particularly welcome. Our next stop was Inveranon beautiful walk and you come to the end of Loch Lomond a bit tough but the sight of that drink in the pub at Benglas farm is a joy! Next stop Tyndrum through forestry and the views again just breath taking, a lot of ups and downs so can be a bit arduous but a lot of soft underfoot from Tyndrum to Kingshouse past the Bridge of Orchy over the moors, not difficult usual stony path but just a bit of a foot slog. From Kingshouse to Kilnlochleven people fret about the Devils Staircase all it is is a long way up, it zigzags and the views are breath taking take your time and take in the views and it’s actually enjoyable just be prepared to take your time have a break at the top and see what Scotland can show you then walk onto Kilnlochleven the road down into town is tough on the knees as down you go and then further down it’s never ending and then you come to a little town but be warned there is no pharmacy and expect to pay high prices for a basic meal, we had fish and chips in a pub £50 for two. Next day onto Fort William remember the long road down well this is a long road up to get out but so long as your prepared for it it’s not a problem once at the top it’s virtually flat most of the way to Fort William but then you have a very very long road down and then a long walk on a pedestrian path into the town this for me was the toughest part, nothing more than a foot slog all the way down it kills your knees. But then it’s done and you’ve met dozens of people on the way who chat and walk a while then move on or you move on you see amazing views meet some lovely locals and barring the Inversnaid hotel you are welcomed every where people seem to love the walkers you get encouragement from locals and other walkers people try to help as much as they can it’s just the best feeling. One final word of warning a snippet I found out if you get a Taxi from Inversnaid to Inveranon expect to pay £150 because it’s a 79 mile road trip!!!
Written September 14, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Glasgowloon
Aberdeen, UK69 contributions
Jul 2021 • Solo
Completed the 96 miles of the West Highland Way with my 3 year old German Shepherd Dexter, during the first week of June 2018.
We had a quite wonderful time, and made friends with other hikers from around the world.
Had wonderful weather, with mid 20'C temperatures almost the whole way.
I thought long and hard before I decided to take my dog, as the West Highland Way, can be challenging for humans and dogs. I prepared him for the distance for months before we went by taking him on regular long walks.
A few of the challenges taking your dog include:
Accommodation; is available that allows dogs but it's limited, so book early as possible; I booked almost 8 months prior to starting. I was able to have my meals with my dog, in or very near all my stops.
Wildlife: my dog is very friendly, but loose sheep, deer, feral goats and swans were all encountered along the way, sometimes with little warning presenting problems for us, none that could not be overcome, but definitely something to be aware of. Whilst walking past the Kinghouse Hotel, a fully grown stag appeared out of nowhere. Feral goats were encountered near Loch Lomond and whilst approaching Devil's Staircase.
Terrain: a great deal of the terrain consists of paths made up of loose sharp rocks, which could be damaging to dog paws. I thought about protective booties for my dog, but never used them, and my dog had no issue: however I checked my dog regularly.
Water; I carried water for my dog but to be honest, he managed to find water to drink and cool down in, almost everywhere along the whole way.
Distance: my dog was tired at the end but has had no adverse effects since we got home.
Other Walkers: my dog made many friends along the way.
Taxi transfers: no problems, but make sure you let them know in advance.
So I would absolutely recommend walking with your dog, if it's fit enough and you prepare for distance and terrain.
I'm Scottish and the West Highland Way was wonderful, the final day walking into Fort William, with Maggie from USA, Corey from Canada, Peter from Channel Islands & David from England, all of whom I met during my hike, was brilliant, funny and so enjoyable: thanks for the company folks.
We had a quite wonderful time, and made friends with other hikers from around the world.
Had wonderful weather, with mid 20'C temperatures almost the whole way.
I thought long and hard before I decided to take my dog, as the West Highland Way, can be challenging for humans and dogs. I prepared him for the distance for months before we went by taking him on regular long walks.
A few of the challenges taking your dog include:
Accommodation; is available that allows dogs but it's limited, so book early as possible; I booked almost 8 months prior to starting. I was able to have my meals with my dog, in or very near all my stops.
Wildlife: my dog is very friendly, but loose sheep, deer, feral goats and swans were all encountered along the way, sometimes with little warning presenting problems for us, none that could not be overcome, but definitely something to be aware of. Whilst walking past the Kinghouse Hotel, a fully grown stag appeared out of nowhere. Feral goats were encountered near Loch Lomond and whilst approaching Devil's Staircase.
Terrain: a great deal of the terrain consists of paths made up of loose sharp rocks, which could be damaging to dog paws. I thought about protective booties for my dog, but never used them, and my dog had no issue: however I checked my dog regularly.
Water; I carried water for my dog but to be honest, he managed to find water to drink and cool down in, almost everywhere along the whole way.
Distance: my dog was tired at the end but has had no adverse effects since we got home.
Other Walkers: my dog made many friends along the way.
Taxi transfers: no problems, but make sure you let them know in advance.
So I would absolutely recommend walking with your dog, if it's fit enough and you prepare for distance and terrain.
I'm Scottish and the West Highland Way was wonderful, the final day walking into Fort William, with Maggie from USA, Corey from Canada, Peter from Channel Islands & David from England, all of whom I met during my hike, was brilliant, funny and so enjoyable: thanks for the company folks.
Written July 2, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Donna S
17 contributions
Sep 2022
So glad we chose Gemini Walks to plan our hike along the West Highland Way. Julie’s first-hand knowledge of the area allowed us to just enjoy the hike. She arranged our lodging, baggage transfers, and transportation (we did not walk the full 96 miles so we needed transportation to the next “leg” a couple times). Everything the entire week was exactly as she described and flawlessly executed. One B&B owner even commented to us that Julie is the only who books with her that actually visits each year to check out all the B&B’s. It was a spectacular week - great hiking - wonderful scenery.
Written September 14, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Rebecca D
7 contributions
Sep 2022
This adventure was well worth the wait! Originally planned for May 2020, I finally got to enjoy this adventure this September. I'm so grateful to have had my trip planned by Gemini Walks, who were so accommodating with all of the COVID delays. They picked the best accommodations along the way. Mid-September was the perfect time to go with very few midges and absolutely perfect weather. Next time we'll save our knees over the Loch Lomond section and hire a luggage service from the beginning. Don't rush - 8 days was perfect!
Written November 2, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Julie O
1 contribution
Oct 2023 • Couples
Me, my husband and our black Labrador completed the West Highland Way last week! All our accommodation was booked through wonderful Gemini Walks. Julie and Michelle were absolutely brilliant at sorting it all out for us, finding lovely dog friendly accommodation enroute and were soo friendly with excellent communication too. We did the walk over eight days and I’m glad we chose that schedule. It broke up with the long Tyndrum to Kingshouse day. It was quite a challenging walk for me, particularly… and the weather was really really rainy but we had some dry days too and we did it and was a great feeling getting to Fort William!
Written October 19, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Hi! We're planning on doing the WHW in late September 2024. We don't want to camp, is it easy/cheaper to find accommodations by oneself, or is it better to hire a company?
If so, all of them seem pretty similar, except for the price, has anyone had really bad experiences with any of the companies?
Written December 28, 2024
We have a hike planned on the West Highland Way for early October. Originally this was planned for this month, but we cancelled back in April 2020 when the virus hit. We are guardedly optimistic that in six months we’ll be able to travel again. We are starting to get excited about the details of the walk, and would like to buy one of the guidebooks to be prepared with mile by mile history, natural history, and local information along the way. There seem to be at least four or five guidebooks to choose from, and wonder if folks have a sense of their favorites, pros and cons, etc. We don’t necessarily need accommodation or camping information, as we are using a package company (Hillwalk Tours) to make these arrangements for us. They have provided map and basic routing instructions. Looking forward to hearing your feedback. Stay safe all!
Written April 2, 2021
Hi there. On the website it says "no baggage transfers" on the West Highland Way trip. Surely we don't carry our luggage all day? Thanks for any advice.
Written November 14, 2020
Looking for tips for accommodation for walking the West Highland Way in around 8 days at the end of April 2021. Looking for a bed and warm shower and an option for food and drink nearby. Thinking of spending a night in Oban after the walk as we have a total of 10 days in Scotland, and to take the West Highland Train Line back to Glasgow. All advice greatly appreciated.
Sean
Written November 9, 2020
Hi I’m looking to do the west highland way in 5 days. Would be grateful if anyone could give me some advice on an itinerary and places to stay please.
Thanks
Written October 27, 2020
Hi everyone!
Just wondering if anyone had any recommendations for hostel/bnbs/hotels along the WHW trail? Don't really have any preference, just want to make sure I'm not always sleeping in my tent!
Thank you all so much!
Written July 6, 2020
Hello, I’m looking to do the west highland way with a group of friends next year. I wanted guidance on whether its better to walk self planned/self guided or with a tour group. Would love to hear your experiences/guidance.
I have already read a few reviews from previous visitor of this challenge.
Another question I have is, is the route challenging in terms of scrabbling required or is it just the distance that makes it tough? Again I have read a few blogs and watched a few YouTube videos to try and gauge the level of difficulty.
As a group we have decided not to camp so am aware we would need to book well in advance for accommodation.
Any tips/hints and guidance much appreciated, especially In terms of how many days Previous visitors have completed this walk.
Thank you
Written June 13, 2020
Does anyone know where to find public showers along the West Highland Way?
I saw that Kingshouse Hotel has coin operated public showers. Any other places?
Written June 26, 2019
There are lodgings at the Bridge of Orchy & they have showers.
Written August 31, 2019
Brilliant review .Thinking about doing this walk great tips.
Written June 13, 2019
It was an exceptional walk ... could I suggest the guide book by Charlie Loram, called "West Highland Way." The walking maps in this guide are so helpful and quite accurate. The author has made valuable personal comments and cautions, too, as when you comes to the proverbial "fork in the road." Trailblazer Publications, The Old Manse, Tower Rd, Hindhead, Surrey, GU26 6SU.UK
Written June 14, 2019
We're heading south back to England from Aviemore and looking at stopping along the way for 2 days or more. What can we do in this time?
Written May 28, 2019
Walk some of the Northumberland coastal path. It's stunning. Lindisfarne, Bamburgh Castle, Dunstanburgh castle, Craster, Alnmouth and Alnwick, Warkworth - there's so much of interest and it's beautiful!
Written May 31, 2019
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