Route Overview

Where is the West Highland Line?

Few adventures capture the spirit of Scotland quite like a journey along the The West Highland Line: Train & Hike, a stunning combination of train travel and hiking through some of the most breathtaking landscapes in the world. If you are looking for the best way to see Scotland’s breathtaking scenery, you have found it. The West Highland Line: Train & Hike tour is a breathtaking adventure that combines two of Scotland’s most iconic experiences: hiking along the highlands and the Great Glen, as well as traveling on one of the world’s most scenic railway lines. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know to plan your ultimate journey through the western Highlands of Scotland. The West Highland Line is a railway route that runs through Scotland’s western Highlands, starting in Glasgow and ending in Mallaig on the coast, through Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park, Rannoch Moor, and the Great Glen, offering spectacular views of mountains, lochs, and open moorland. The line is famous for its dramatic scenery, including the iconic Glenfinnan Viaduct, featured in the Harry Potter films.

Why should you walk the West Highland Line?

Walking the West Highland Line offers a unique way to experience Scotland’s wild and rugged beauty. You’ll hike along the West Highland Line, Scotland’s oldest and most popular long-distance trail, and the Great Glen Way, which follows the Caledonian Canal. Combined with train journeys on the West Highland Line, this tour provides a perfect blend of adventure, history, and natural beauty.

The Great Glen Way allows you to experience timeless Scottish Highland scenery with lochs, forest trails and heather covered hills, and maybe even catch a glimpse of “Nessie”, the Loch Ness Monster! Enjoy spectacular surroundings, minus the climbing, as most of this relatively gentle hike keeps to lower levels of the Great Glen.

The West Highland Line impresses with its rugged natural beauty. The former military trail lead deep into the Scottish Highlands and allows you to experience remote, wild, & natural landscapes. You will witness astonishing scenes as you look over the Glencoe landscape which has volcanic origins. Your hike ends in Fortwilliam, like the West Highland Line, at the foot of Ben Nevis, Great Britain’s highest mountain at a height of 4,412ft / 1,345m above sea level. This is followed by a final train journey to Mallaig, a charming port town on Scotland’s beautiful West Coast.

Simply put, the West Highland Line showcases the best of what Scotland has to offer in terms of hiking, with the novel element of crossing iconic railways providing a unique perspective for those impressive views.

When is best time to do the West Highland Line?

The West Highland Line is so popular that it attracts visitors all year round due to the highland’s unique beauty and breath-taking peaks. Every season has its own charm, but indeed some months are better for hiking than others. Of course, hours of sunshine, probability of rain, wind and temperature depend solely on the respective season in Scotland. Due to its popularity, it is advised that you book your hiking holiday early along the West Highland Line to avoid disappointment.

Spring (March, April, and May)

Average temperature: 7-13°C

There is a possibility that snow may still fall during March and April which give the mountain peaks a picturesque white blanket, but May is an ideal month for the West Highland Line. This is mostly due to approaching the longest days of the year that gives daylight late into the evening, giving you the opportunity to cover plenty of ground. Also, May is a month that often produces the least amount of rainfall.

Summer (June, July, and August)

Average temperature – 18°C

Typically, July and August tend to be the warmest months on the West Highland Line. Although the average temperature is generally around 18C during these months, it becomes cooler at higher altitudes. The warm, humid climate also means the arrival of midges, which can be pretty active along the West Highland Line. However, with Scotland being the windiest country in Europe just one gust of wind can get rid of the little tormentors. Worth the risk for the long magical summer nights!

Autumn (September, October, and November)

Average temperature – 8-14°C

The months of September and October are ideal months to hike the West Highland Line for a few reasons. Firstly, the summer vacation months have passed meaning that the trail is much quieter. This gives hikers who enjoy the silence the chance to witness animals in their natural habitat. Secondly, and most notably, September typically sees the end of the midge season.

Winter (December, January, and February)

Average temperature – 0-6°C

Due to high likelihood of snowfall during these months, it is only recommended that very experienced hikers hike in Scotland during this time of year. If the valleys and paths are covered with snow, one must be well able to navigate with a map and compass. Certain sections are at times completely buried and must be closed. It is also important to note that many of the normal accommodation and luggage transfer companies are also closed for the winter months after a busy working period during the main March to October season.

How long does it take to do the West Highland Line?

The Hillwalk Tours West Highland Line tours follow select sections of the West Highland Way and Great Glen Way, combined with train journeys. You’ll typically spend several days hiking (about 12 km / 15 7.5 miles to 22 km / 22 km a day depending on the tour difficulty you select) and several train journeys, allowing you to experience the best of both worlds without committing to a full long-distance trek.

Tour Route

Types of Trails

Choosing the right hiking tour for you can be, at times, tricky. It is always important to consider your own physical capability and comfort levels.

For example, at Hillwalk Tours, we have grouped each trail route we offer into three categories depending on personal preference and fitness levels. These are – gentle, moderate, and challenging. Each of these categories, depending on the destination, will include 4-day to 10-day itineraries, with customers given the option to add days where they see fit.

Our gentle hikes are perfectly suited for those who would consider themselves as a part-time hiker who enjoy taking photos and meeting locals while taking in the spectacular scenery. Our moderate hikes will suit people who are used to regular exercise and appreciate the opportunity of covering plenty of ground each day without going beyond their limits. Finally, our challenging hikes are for hikers who look to set off early in the morning and not stop until they have reached their destination.

With regards to our West Highland Line trail, each of our hiking category covers the following average hiking distance and time each day:

Gentle: 12-15km or 7.5-9 miles and between 3-5 hours

Moderate: 18-22km or 11-14 miles and between 4-7 hours

Hillwalk Tours Guide Notes

Walking the West Highland Line is considered one of the most popular trails in Europe, even the world, there is an abundance of guidebooks you can avail of before setting off on your trail.

If you decide to walk the trail with Hillwalk Tours, you will receive a detailed walking pack once you have fully booked your hiking holiday. This walking pack will include detailed maps and unique route notes and walking directions written and constantly updated by our route development team. By personally walking each trail and creating our own detailed route notes, it allows us to provide more itineraries, route options and alternatives than what you will typically find across generic guidebooks. It also includes GPS tracks meaning you will never have to worry about getting lost.

Starting and Finishing Point

The starting point of the West Highland Line is in the city of Glasgow Glasgow, where you will catch your first train at Glasgow Queen Street Station and travel to Ardlui on the West Highland Line. Ardlui is renowned for its stunning views of Ben Lomond and the Arrochar Alps, making it a fantastic spot for nature lovers and photographers. It is here that you will embark on the first hiking section.

The final section of hiking ends in Fortwilliam, by the waters of Loch Linnhe. It is from here that you will board your final train, taking you to the final destination of the tour: Mallaig. Many people regard the section from Fort William to Mallaig as the nicest part of the West Highland Line. In Mallaig, you can immerse yourself in the charm of an active fishing port, while its secluded location provides the perfect setting for unwinding

For departing Fort William, there is a regular train service from Fort William to Glasgow. This is the most popular option, and the journey takes about 4 hours with several services each day. There is also a regular bus service between Fort William and Glasgow which just takes 3 hours. Furthermore, there are also local private transfer companies who will taxi you to and from the route start and end points. These are often a good value option for groups of four or more. They are also a nice way to get some additional local knowledge.

Mallaig offers regular train and bus services for departing travelers. We suggest heading south on the West Highland Line (approximate 5-hour and 30-minute train journey to Glasgow) so you can relish all that breathtaking highland scenery once more. Alternatively, you can continue your journey to the Isle of Skye and further explore the captivating Inner or Outer Hebrides. For Hillwalk Tours customers, we will be happy to provide you with further details upon request.

Sample West Highland LineItineraries

The following are examples of Hillwalk Tours Gentle and Moderate itineraries for the West Highland Line.

Gentle 6-Day

Day 1: Arrival in Glasgow & Train Journey to Tyndrum (Train Journey: 63 miles / 101km)

Day 2: Tyndrum to Bridge of Orchy (7 miles / 11km)

Day 3: Optional hike on Loch Tulla Loop (5 miles / 8km) & Train journey on West Highland Line to Spean Bridge (Train Journey: 42 miles / 67km)

Day 4: Gairlochy to Fort William (10.5 miles / 17km)

Day 5: Train journey on the regular West Highland Line train from Fort William to Mallaig (Train Journey: 42 miles / 67km)

Day 6: Depart Mallaig & onwards travel

Gentle 7-Day

Day 1: Arrival in Glasgow & Train Journey to Crianlarich (Train Journey: 58 miles / 93km)

Day 2: Crianlarich to Tyndrum (7 miles / 11km)

Day 3: Tyndrum to Bridge of Orchy (7 miles / 11km)

Day 4: Optional hike on Loch Tulla Loop (5 miles / 8km) & Train journey on West Highland Line to Spean Bridge (Train Journey: 42 miles / 67km)

Day 5: Gairlochy to Fort William (10.5 miles / 17km)

Day 6: Train journey on the regular West Highland Line train from Fort William to Mallaig (Train Journey: 42 miles / 67km)

Day 7: Depart Mallaig & onwards travel

Gentle 9-Day

Day 1: Arrival in Glasgow & Train Journey to Ardlui (Train Journey:  50 miles / 80km)

Day 2: Ardlui to Crianlarich (9 miles / 14.5 Km)

Day 3: Crianlarich to Tyndrum (7 Miles / 11 Km)

Day 4: Train journey to Oban and back on the West Highland Line (Train Journey: 83 miles / 134km)

Day 5: Tyndrum to Bridge of Orchy (7 Miles / 11 Km)

Day 6: Optional hike on Loch Tulla Loop (5 miles / 8 Km) & Train journey on West Highland Line to Spean Bridge (Train Journey: 42 miles / 67km)

Day 7: Gairlochy to Fort William (10.5 miles / 17 Km)

Day 8: Train journey on the regular West Highland Line train from Fort William to Mallaig (Train Journey: 42 miles / 67km)

Day 9: Depart Mallaig & onwards travel

Moderate 8-Day

Day 1: Arrival in Glasgow & Train Journey to Ardlui (Train Journey: 50 miles / 80km)

Day 2: Ardlui to Crianlarich (9 miles / 14.5km)

Day 3: Train journey to Oban & back on the West Highland Line (Train Journey: 90 miles / 144km)

Day 4: Crianlarich to Bridge of Orchy (14 miles / 22km)

Day 5: Optional hike on Loch Tulla Loop (5 miles / 8km) & Train journey on West Highland Line to Spean Bridge (Train Journey: 42 miles / 67km)

Day 6: Gairlochy to Fort William (10.5 miles / 17km)

Day 7: Train journey on the regular West Highland Line train from Fort William to Mallaig (Train Journey: 42 miles / 67km)

Day 8: Depart Mallaig & onwards travel

Interested in checking out sample itineraries for some of our Gentle, Moderate and Challenging tours? Check out our website for more information.

Currency and Expenses

The currency used throughout Scotland, including the West Highland Line, is the British Pound (£).

The cost of food, drinks, and activities while hiking along the West Highland Line can vary depending on several factors, such as the location, time of year, and personal preferences.

Dining out in restaurants along the West Highland Line offers a range of options, from affordable to moderately expensive, depending on the type of cuisine and the establishment. A meal for one person in a mid-range restaurant typically costs around £15 to £30, excluding drinks. If you prefer more upscale dining experiences, prices can be higher. The cost of beverages, like a pint of beer or a glass of wine, can range from £4 to £8, depending on the place you choose. It’s worth noting that prices may be slightly higher in popular tourist areas, especially during peak seasons.

The West Highland Line provides visitors with various activities, including hiking, exploring historical sites, and enjoying scenic drives. The prices for these activities can vary. It’s important to keep in mind that prices along the West Highland Line may be slightly higher during the peak tourist season, which usually falls between June and August, compared to the off-peak season.

West Highland Line Accommodation and Services

Hotels and Guesthouses

There are several hotels and guesthouses available along the West Highland Line, particularly in towns and villages such as Crianlarich, Bridge of Orchy, and Fort William. These establishments provide comfortable rooms, dining facilities, and amenities for travellers.

Bed & Breakfasts

B&Bs are a popular choice along the West Highland Line, offering cozy and affordable lodging options. They provide comfortable rooms, breakfast, and often have friendly hosts who can offer local information and tips for your journey.

Hostels

For budget-conscious travelers, there are hostels scattered throughout the route. These establishments typically offer dormitory-style accommodations and communal facilities such as kitchens and lounges.

Camping and Glamping

If you prefer camping, there are designated campsites available along the West Highland Line such as Glencoe and Kinlochleven. These sites usually provide basic amenities such as toilets, showers, and sometimes cooking facilities.

Wild camping in the Scottish wilderness is permitted in certain areas, but it’s important to follow the Scottish Outdoor Access Code, which includes respecting the environment, leaving no trace, and camping responsibly. It’s also advisable to check for any specific restrictions or guidelines in place at the time of your visit.

Glamping along the West Highland Line offers a unique and luxurious way to experience the stunning Scottish scenery. From stylishly furnished tents to cosy cabins nestled in nature, glamping provides hikers with a comfortable retreat after a day of exploring the picturesque trail.

Airbnb and Self-Catering

Airbnb accommodations offer a diverse range of options along the West Highland Line, from cosy cottages to secluded retreats, providing a unique and personalized experience for hikers. For example, some properties offer stays in traditional Scottish Highland homes, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the local culture and enjoy stunning landscapes.

Shops and Grocery Stores

In the towns and villages along the West Highland line, you’ll find grocery stores and shops where you can stock up on food, water, and other supplies for your journey. It’s advisable to plan ahead and carry snacks and water while hiking between settlements, as some sections of the trail may have limited access to amenities.

ATMs

There are ATMs available in towns and villages along the route, including Crianlarich, Bridge of Orchy, and Fort William. However, it’s important to note that the availability of ATMs may be limited, especially in smaller villages or more remote areas. To ensure you have enough cash for your journey, it’s advisable to plan ahead and withdraw sufficient funds in larger towns where ATMs are more readily accessible. Additionally, carrying some cash with you is recommended for places that may not accept cards or in case of any unforeseen circumstances. Some larger stores and establishments may offer cashback services, allowing you to withdraw additional cash when making a purchase, but it’s worth confirming this service availability and any limitations with the specific store.

West Highland Line Trail Etiquette

The West Highland Way and Great Glen Way are renowned for their breathtaking landscapes and commitment to environmental conservation. Local communities hold a deep appreciation for preserving the region’s natural beauty and protecting its diverse wildlife. In Scotland, respecting the environment and practicing responsible tourism are of utmost importance.

When traversing the hiking trails on the West Highland line, adhering to trail etiquette and embracing the principles of the Leave No Trace organization is highly encouraged. It is crucial to show respect for the natural surroundings by refraining from littering or leaving any waste behind. Whether it’s food scraps, wrappers, or non-biodegradable items, hikers should carry out all their trash and dispose of it appropriately in designated bins or carry it until they reach suitable disposal facilities. By embracing the Leave No Trace principles, hikers play an integral role in preserving the pristine allure of the trail and ensuring its enjoyment for generations to come.

At Hillwalk Tours, we are committed to sustainable tourism and hold a deep affection for Scotland’s countryside in its wild, tranquil, and unspoiled state. We proudly support the “Leave No Trace” initiative, which aims to safeguard the natural beauty of the countryside in every nation where we offer hiking holidays.

Hillwalk Tours West Highland Line Map

 Here is a map of the entire West Highland Line route;

 West Highland Line Terrain

Waymarking

Waymarking on the West Highland Line is so thorough, there never really is any doubt if you are headed in the right direction. In fact, at key points, signposts stand about 1.5m high, making it near impossible not to see, even if you deep in conversation or thought!

If you are ever in doubt, you can also check the Hillwalk Tours turn by turn directions and route notes which also include everything you need to know about local information and history as you pass, along with trail alternatives. Want to know more on how to read a map? Check out this blog post.

Difficulty

The West Highland Line, as hikes go, is considered to be a moderate to difficult trail, depending on how you intend to walk it. The beginning of the trail is fairly easy with plenty of flat sections and only becomes more difficult as you traverse into the more remote Highlands.

The hike along Loch Lomond towards Inverarnan can be considered one of the most challenging parts of the trail, even during good weather. There are some narrow paths winding up and down during the woods, often involving a bit of climbing making it a much harder walk than the distance alone.

At Hillwalk Tours, we believe everyone, and anyone deserves to take on this trail, no matter the difficulty, which is why you can also find numerous ‘Gentle’ level itineraries for the West Highland Line, making it more manageable.

The Trains

The West Highland Line hosts several steam trains with the oldest being a tried and tested 1930’s design capable of tackling the route’s steep gradients. One such notable engine is ‘Black 5’ No 45407, also known as ‘The Lancashire Fusilier.’ Based in Bury, Lancashire, it is well-acquainted with the West Highlands having frequently led The Jacobite service since its inception in 1984.

Trains pictured from left to right: Loch Rannoch 37676 a Class 37 diesel locomotive, a Midland Pullman HST train, a Scotrail Class 43 HST Power Car and a Stanier Black 5 at Loch Eilt. All images sourced from Facebook-West Highland Line Appreciation Group.

What’s more, the Jacobite Steam Train (pictured above), is also found on the West Highland Line. The Jacobite Steam Train is one of the most famous heritage railways in the world. Operated by West Coast Railways, this historic locomotive runs from Fort William to Mallaig, offering a nostalgic journey through the Highlands. This train is particularly famous for being used as the ‘Hogwarts Express’ from the Harry Potter films. The most famous scene features the train crossing the Glenfinnan Viaduct, a stunning 21-arch railway bridge towering over Loch Shiel. Note: Hillwalk Tours provide tickets for the regular ScotRail service from Fort William to Mallaig. If you wish to experience The Jacobite Steam Train, you must book it independently.

Sights & Attractions

Loch Lomond

The luscious Loch Lomond is commonly known as the queen of the Scottish lakes and is the third deepest in Scotland. The lake stretches for 35km from north to south (or vice versa) and is known for its beauty attracting hikers, holidaymakers, and day-trippers alike.

Rannoch Moor

The majestic moorland that is Rannoch Moor allows you to dive deeper in the wilderness of the Scottish Highlands. It covers approximately 50 square miles of boggy moorland to the west of Loch Rannoch and extends north to Lochaber. Rannoch Moor encompasses blanket bog, lochans, rivers and rocky outcrops that support a wide variety of flora, fauna, and wildlife.

Caledonian Canal

This path marks the highest point of the West Highland Line at 550m. Despite the altitude and what the name may suggest, the path zigzags up to this peak, making it easy to manage. The highest point of the Devil’s Staircase is marked by two pyramids made of piled stones. Once climbed, you are rewarded with a breath-taking view back over Glencoe and the Blackwater Reservoir.

Wildlife

There is an abundance of Scottish wildlife that can be observed while traversing the West Highland Line. You are given the opportunity to see a host of different types of animals such as birds including ospreys, woodpeckers, and eagles. There is also a high likelihood you will see different types of deer including small roes to the well-known, red deer. Probably the most popular animals that can be seen along this trail are Highland cattle.

Highland cattle (or coos to Scottish people) have been gracing the Scottish Highlands since the 6th century. Their shaggy coats protect them from the harsh Highland weather. Known for their gentle temperament and distinctive sweeping horns the ancient cattle’s aesthetics serve for practical purposes in their native environment. Along the trail, hikers may encounter them on the ascent of Conic Hill, Drymen and amidst the scenic beauty surrounding Loch Lomond, where they peacefully graze.

It is of course great to see a squirrel jump from tree to tree or come face to face with a deer, however, to maintain these experiences as much as possible, it is important that hikers interact as little as possible with the wild animals.

The dos and don’ts regarding wildlife are self-explanatory. Feeding is of course out of the question, but also try not to run after animals for a photo. Leave the animals alone as much as possible – after all, you are visiting their “home”.

Midges

These miniscule biting flies get a special mention. Although their reputation is often worse than they actually are, they can become a complete nuisance while walkingin Scotland. They mostly appear on the trail from late spring to summer but are easily deterred by wind. We assure hikers walking this trail that there is nothing to worry about if bitten by one of these insects, but bites may cause red itchiness. That is why we advise anyone taking this Hillwalk hiking holiday to bring insect/midge repellent. Our route development team recommend Smidge as their go to insect repellent. A midge net would also come in handy!

History of the West Highland Line

The West Highland Line

Built in the late 19th century, the railway was essential for connecting remote Highland communities and is now one of the world’s most scenic train routes. The Caledonian Canal, which you’ll walk along, was built in the early 19th century as a shortcut for ships between the west and east coasts of Scotland.

The West Highland Way

The West Highland Way became Scotland’s first ever official long-distance route when it was opened in 1980. The idea for this trail was formulated by Glaswegian, Tom Hunter and received approval for the development of the route from Lord Mansfield in 1974. Hunter, a World War II veteran, originally came up with the idea of this trail to partly protect the eastern shore of Loch Lomond from development. Geographer, Fiona Rose played a significant part in the development of the now famous trail as she surveyed the route on her own in the early 1970’s, amassing 1,000 miles by foot. In 2010, the West Highland Way was co-designated as part of the International Appalachian Trail, which features trails from all over the world including Iceland, Ireland, Norway, and Morocco.

The Great Glen Way

The Great Glen Way was opened in 2002. This glen encapsulates the abundant heritage of the Highlands and stands as an unparalleled wilderness for intrepid souls seeking adventure. Since then, the Lords of the Isles, Robert the Bruce and the Jacobite’s have given the Great Glen area its fair share of historical stories to tell. In more recent times, advancements in modern engineering made it possible to construct a network of canals that linked Scotland’s eastern and western coasts. This enabled boats to navigate through the terrain instead of undertaking voyages around the northern coast. Utilizing the majestic waters of Loch Ness, Loch Lochy, and Loch Oich, these canals seamlessly connected each body of water, resulting in the creation of the aforementioned Great Caledonian Canal.

Myth & Legend along the West Highland Line

Kelpies

Kelpies are mythical water spirits from Scottish folklore often depicted as shape-shifting horses that inhabit lochs and rivers. Not unlike the more well-known mermaid and the siren from Greek mythology, these creatures are said to lure unsuspecting travelers to their doom. Along the West Highland Line there are many such lochs and rivers.

Wild Haggis

Wild haggis is another creature from Scottish folklore, often humorously described as a small, four-legged animal with legs of different lengths to help it navigate the steep hills of the Scottish Highlands. According to the legend, this unique adaptation allows the wild haggis to run around the hillsides in a single direction without tipping over. See the below video for more information.

West Highland Line in Pop Culture

Film and TV

Harry Potter

Harry Potter and his friends regularly passed through the Scottish Highlands as they made their way to and from Hogwarts aboard the Hogwarts Express. One of the most famous images from these movies is the sight of the train crossing the marvellous Glenfinnan Viaduct. This scene uses the Jacobite Steam Train is one of the most famous heritage railways in the world. Operated by West Coast Railways, this historic locomotive runs from Fort William to Mallaig, offering a nostalgic journey through the Highlands. Note: Hillwalk Tours provide tickets for the regular ScotRail service from Fort William to Mallaig. If you wish to experience The Jacobite Steam Train, you must book it independently.

Braveheart (1995)

The area around Fort William has starred time and time again in a series of movies. Glen Nevis stars heavily in Braveheart.

Rob Roy (1995)

This cattle rustler turned folk hero was memorably played by Liam Neeson in Rob Roy. The film enjoys a series of spectacular locations all over Scotland and two in particular around the Great Glen.

Loch Lommond

The Maid of the Loch paddle steamer, the last of its kind at Balloch Pier

Loch Lomond being the largest expanse of freshwater in the British Isles has had a lot of shipping traffic down through the years. In fact from 1816 until 1981, 22 paddle steamers served on the Loch sailing from Balloch. Surprisingly some sailed all the way up the now abandoned Inverarnan Canal dropping passengers at the Drover’s Inn who would then continue their journeys by horse drawn coach

The final steamer to sail the Loch can still be viewed at Balloch Pier. The Maid of the Loch is the last paddle steamer built in the United Kingdom (1953). It served day trippers on Loch Lomond for decades. A long term preservation project recently had an injection of funds so the Loch Lomond Steamship Company is hopeful of getting this unique vessel on the water again. It can be viewed and toured during the summer season.

The Drovers Inn

The Drovers Inn of North Loch Lomond is said to be one the UK’s most haunted hotels. Some rooms have ghostly roommates, but you can choose to avoid them or face the spirits. If you are brave enough you can book a night with a phantom friend for company.

The People & Local Customs

The people along the West Highland Line are known for their warm and welcoming nature. It is customary to greet others with a friendly smile, engage in casual conversations, and exhibit a general friendliness towards both locals and visitors. Hospitality is highly valued, and you will often find locals offering assistance or initiating conversations to make you feel at home. The West Highland Line region has a rich cultural heritage, with traditional Scottish music playing an important role in local customs. Many pubs along the route host lively music sessions, creating an inviting atmosphere where joining in or simply appreciating the vibrant melodies is a cherished tradition. The local residents take pride in their cultural traditions, including music, dance, and storytelling, which adds a unique and memorable element to the experience of exploring the West Highland Line.

West Highland Line Pop Culture

Films and TV

Due to its vast wilderness, diverse terrain and the enchanting magic of the Scottish Highlands, it is no wonder why filmmakers use the variety of landscapes as backdrops for their films or tv series. Here are just a few notable movies and tv shows that you might recognise on the trail:

Harry Potter (2001-2011)

The famous Hogwarts Express steam train that took the students to and from Hogwarts passes over the incredible Glenfinnan Viaduct. You are able to experience this amazing journey as the Jacobite steam train departs Fort William every day.

Trainspotting (1996)

Predominantly filmed in Glasgow City, with certain parts filmed on Rannoch Moor, and the train station used was the station near Loch Ossian and Loch Treig. You can relive the movie at the station, which has since been converted into a restaurant!

The spectacular scenery is not just present along the West Highland Line, check out other films which were filmed along other Scottish trails.

Books

Waypoints – My Scottish Journey by Sam Heughan (2022)

Hollywood actor, Heughan, uses the famous trail as the backdrop as he tells the story of his life while exploring his own personal outlook, values, and interests.

Three Men on the Way Way by Hamish Brown (2013)

From looking at the cover of this book, it could easily be mistaken as another guidebook. However, it is an amusing anecdotal account of three men from Fife and their experiences walking along the West Highland Way. The term Way Way is the nickname they gave this popular Scottish trail.

Food and Drink

Below are just some of the food and drink unique to the country of Scotland and something to consider trying while visiting the West Highland Line:

Haggis

When you think of Scottish cuisine, Haggis is probably one of the first things that comes to mind. It is a savoury pudding which is made up of a delicious combination of sheep’s pluck (organ meats), oatmeal, onions, salt, and spices. To some, haggis isn’t often the prettiest of foods, but makes up for it with its palatable taste.

Tattie Scones

Whenever you see tattie in Scotland, you can be quite sure they are referring to potatoes. Tattie scones then are traditional potato scones made in Scotland. They are made from mashed potato, flour and butter which is then rolled out and put on an ungreased griddle to cook. It is said that no Scottish breakfast is complete without a Tattie scone – and we wholeheartedly agree!

Full Scottish Breakfast

Depending on where you go, a full Scottish breakfast is typically made up of sausages, bacon, baked beans, hashbrowns, black pudding, mushrooms, tattie scones, fried eggs, tomatoes, and toast. Found in B&B’s, restaurants, and cafes up and down the country, it is the ideal breakfast to set you up for a great day of exploring one of our Scottish trails.

Seafood

The seafood caught in the surrounding waters of Scotland is known for its highest fresh quality. So much so that it is served in many of the finest restaurants across Britain and Europe. Examples of this fabulous seafood includes smoked salmon, seatrout, scallops, lobsters, and oysters. For all of you fish and chip lovers out there, you have not lived until you have tried a Scottish fish ‘n’ chip!

Tablet

Commonly mistaken for fudge, tablet is a medium-hard sweet which originated in Scotland. The sugary confection is typically made from butter, condensed milk, and butter. It is then often flavoured with anything from vanilla, chocolate, raisins or even rum.

Shortbread

Shortbread biscuits, otherwise known as shorties, are a traditional Scottish biscuit which are unique as baking powder or soda is not used in the process of making them. Instead, the scrumptious shorties are made with sugar, butter, and plain flour. We highly recommend that you ‘dunk’ yours into your tea or coffee…thank us later!

Scotch Whisky

It is hard to ever mention Scotland without ever thinking of their world-renowned scotch whisky. It can be made from malted barley, wheat and/or rye with every whisky having to be aged in an oak barrel for at least three years. With the first written record of whisky recorded in 1494, there are now around 140 whisky distilleries currently operating in Scotland. Fancy a tipple? You will be able to visit Ben Nevis Distillery upon your arrival at Fort William.

Irn-Bru

Often referred to as Scotland’s second national drink, Irn-Bru is an orange-coloured soft carbonated drink that holds a distinctively sweet, tangy taste. It is so popular throughout Scotland that it has long been the best-selling carbonated drink ahead of Coca-Cola and is the third largest selling soft drink across the United Kingdom. The Scots are such fans of this fizzy pop that they even use it to glaze their ham or to make cupcakes!

Is the West Highland Line Vegan Friendly?

The vegan diet has become more and more popular throughout Europe in recent years, and you will find that there are plenty of vegan options available in most eateries. Each of the B&B’s we work with at Hillwalk Tours have given us their guarantee that vegan breakfasts will be catered for once they have been informed. That being said, some of the more rural locations of the trail may have limited options so we advise bringing certain items such as plant-based milk, nut butters or protein powders if you so choose.

In addition, the following apps show restaurants which offer vegetarian and/or vegan options:

• Happy Cow (€0.99)
• Vanilla Bean (free)

Nearby Trails

There are various other Scottish trails available to you once you have completed the West Highland Line. Here are the other Hillwalk Tours Scottish hiking tours we offer:

• Rob Roy Way
• Great Glen Way
• Speyside Whisky Trail
• Fife Coastal Path
• St Cuthbert’s Way
• West Highland Way

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Hillwalk Tours

About Us

Hillwalk Tours is an award-winning walking tour operator which specialise in self-guided walking holidays in Ireland, Scotland, England, Wales and along the Camino de Santiago in Spain. Our goal is to create happy experiences for all of our customers, suppliers & staff.

Fill out the form below with any questions you may have and we will get back to you promptly.

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Leave No Trace

We like to walk in nature and since you are reading this – we believe you do too! It is important to ensure that our impact on the environment is limited so that hikers can enjoy the same view after us. The rule applies: when you leave, make sure that nature looks the same as when you arrived or simply put “leave no trace.” As more and more people take to the great outdoors, our collective mark on the environment increases.

What does this mean in reality? Of course, do not leave any rubbish or waste behind. Do not collect stones, flowers, or other “souvenirs”. Don’t carve your name on a tree or break branches… I think you get the drift. It is imperative for walkers to play their part in making sure litter, damage to vegetation and all forms of pollution are limited.

Noise can also be a form of pollution. Whoever walks through a forest talking and laughing loudly, for example, ruins the peace and quiet of other walkers, who can no longer hear the birds. The same goes for cell phones that suddenly start ringing. Keep the volume down and respect your surroundings. Ultimately, the point is to ensure that as many people as possible can enjoy walking through nature. So that applies to you, but also to those who tread the path after you.

Hillwalk Tours proudly supports sustainable tourism and loves the countryside as it is – wild, peaceful and clean. We are proud to support the “Leave No Trace” initiative that aims to preserve the natural beauty of each nations countryside where we offer hiking holidays. We try to create happy experiences for our accommodation too, and the restaurants, shops and taxi companies that serve our walkers. These are often small businesses located in isolated areas that have been left behind by urban migration and a lack of investment in rural regions. Their warm hospitality and friendly welcomes epitomise the magic of a Hillwalk Tour and we’re dedicated to helping keep these rural communities alive.

The Benefits of Hiking

In recent years, walking and hiking outdoors has been widely reported to have numerous physical and mental health benefits. The following are examples of some of these benefits:

Improve strength and fitness

• Weight loss

• Muscle gain

• Improve metabolism

• Improve digestion

• Better quality sleep

• Increase in Vitamin D

• Improve discipline

• Sense of achievement

Make A Booking

Are you ready for your West Highland Line adventure? Get started by simply filling out the booking form below!