Five Great Long Distance Walking Routes in Scotland

Scotland has become a mecca for hill walkers over the years due to the great scenery and unspoilt landscapes. In recent years it has also become popular for long distance walking holidays, this has been helped by the way marking of many trails.

West Highland Way

This is Scotland’s premier walking route and the longest at 152km. The West Highland Way starts in Milngavie, a suburb of Glasgow. From the center of Glasgow it only takes about twenty minutes to reach the start the way.

This is the best supported of all the walking routes, there are many tour operators and bag carrying companies offering their service to make life and walking a little easier on this sometimes rugged walking route.

The route finishes in Fort William in the heart of the Scottish highlands. This is one of the incredible things about walking the West Highland Way – you start in the Scottish lowlands and walk into and through the highlands, along the side of the famous Loch Lomond, through Glen Coe, up the Devil’s Staircase, and finally finishing at the foot of Ben Nevis the highest mountain in Scotland.

Rob Roy Way

Due to the National trust in Scotland now you can have the chance to walk in the footsteps of Rob Roy McGregor, (1671 -1734), one of Scotland’s most notorious outlaws, some would say freedom fighter.

This route starts in Drymen, a small village the West Highland Way passes through. From here it snakes north east for 126km to Pitlochry in the east side of the Highlands. This whole route was recently way marked through the private land after access was agreed. The Rob Roy Way is for the hiker that wants a bit more solitude than the West Highland Way, especially during the busy months between May and August.

Great Glen Way

The Great Glen Way can be walked as an extension to the West Highland Way. It is a 117km four or five night route from Fort William to Inverness on the North Sea Coast of Scotland. The main highlight of this route is walking along the side of Loch Ness, home to the famous Loch Ness Monster.

The Great Glen Way is one of the few long distance routes that can also be completed by bicycle.

The Arran Coastal Way

This is a fascinating 100km coastal walking holiday around one of Scotland’s most famous islands and is often described as Scotland in miniature. It is a wonderful relaxed walk where you walk along beautiful coastal stretches, have the option to climb Goat Fell for a spectacular view or visit the Kings Cave.

The Speyside Way

This is a truly wonderful long distance walk ranging from 100km and five walking days to 148km miles and seven walking days. The route starts in Buckie and you travel south west towards Aviemore and you cannot fail to be impressed by the fantastic landscape in this whisky distilling region of North East Scotland.

About the Author:
Sarah James is a content writer for web sites, she is current producing content for eSpatial a GIS software company servicing the European and American markets.