West Highland Way guided holidays are one of the most popular Scottish breaks, so if you are headed up North this year, here are a few fascinating facts about this very rewarding long-distance walking route!
1. It’s (almost) 96 miles long!
The first question you probably have about the West Highland Way is ‘how long is it?’ followed closely by ‘how long does it take to complete?’ Well, it’s 95.6 miles long, so unless you are an ultrarunner, it will take you six to eight days to complete, depending on your level of fitness.
Ultrarunner Rob Sinclair from Aberdeen completed the whole route in 13 hours and 41 minutes during a trial challenge in 2017, smashing the previous record by half an hour, according to the Scottish Athletics organisation. Incredible, but it really is very enjoyable to take the route at a steadier pace!
2. The highest point is called the Devil’s Staircase
But don’t let the sinister name put you off! It’s 550 metres, or 1804ft, which is still quite some way off a mountain, which has to be at least 2000ft to qualify. It’s still recommended that you do some cardiovascular exercise to get yourself in good enough shape to tackle moderate hills without getting out of breath, before taking up the challenge.
3. It was Scotland’s first official long-distance trail
The idea was first put forward by Tom Hunter, a Glaswegian and a keen walker who was passionate about preserving the Scottish countryside. The concept was not universally welcomed by everyone; landowners, farmers, and even the Countryside Commission were not at all keen on the idea.
However, the success of the Pennine Way, which opened in 1965, eventually opened the door for the West Highland Way, and it was approved in 1974, and officially opened in 1980. Great care was taken to incorporate existing paths, such as drover’s trails and old military routes, into the route, in order minimise disruption.
4. It’s part of the International Appalachian Trail
The International Appalachian Trail first began in Mount Katahdin, Maine, USA, and extended through Canada. Since 1994, the route has expanded internationally, to include several European countries, including Scotland, Wales, and Ireland. Today, it’s one of the world’s largest long distance trail networks.
5. It’s a favourite film location
Film buffs may be able spot where scenes from their favourite movies were filmed, as the breathtaking beauty of the scenery makes it a natural choice of location. Sections of the 1995 blockbuster Braveheart were filmed around the Glencoe and Fort William areas of the route, for example.
The iconic Hogwarts Express steam train in the wildly popular Harry Potter movies was filmed crossing the Glenfinnan Viaduct. The train departs from Fort William station, and many visitors to the area take the time to make the journey themselves. Other films with scenes in the area include Trainspotting (1996) and Rob Roy (1995).
6. It was extended by 1 mile in 2010
The official finishing point of the trail was moved to the square in the centre of Fort William in 2010, allowing triumphant walkers to take a seat, and pose with the Sore Feet statue!