Want to win a Camino trip for two?Join our Active Travel Community
Duration
7 days
Activities
  • 7 day guided walk
Accommodation
  • 6 nights barge
Meals
  • 6 Dinners
  • 5 Lunches
  • 6 Breakfasts

Price

$2290USD

 
 

Overview

Trip Code: GGB

Trip highlights


  • Absorb the impressive views of majestic mountains and large expanses of open water
  • Discover smaller atmospheric lochs and pretty canal sections along the Great Glen Way
  • Relish in the accomplishment of walking the breadth of Scotland
  • Relax on board your floating hotel in the company of like minded fellow travellers

Scotland's Great Glen Way walking trail stretches 75 miles from Fort William to the capital of the highlands, Inverness. Based on board a comfortable barge at night, this hike and barge cruise offers the opportunity to walk from one coast of Scotland to the other. During the weeklong trip, the barge stops are planned to suit the walking stages, breaking them into manageable day walks of between 10 and 15 miles. Guided along the route by an experienced escort, who will point out places of interest along the way, there is no shortage of highlights. From impressive views of the mystical Loch Ness to glimpses of Scotland's highest peak, Ben Nevis, this relaxed pace walk will immerse you in the Scottish Highlands. In the evening, share stories of your day with like minded travellers and relish in the accomplishment of walking the breadth of Scotland.

Trip Grading

introductory to moderate

More info about grading system

Traveller Rating

 

Expand all | Collapse all

Boarding time is 14:002/pm. After meeting the crew and other guests, we walk to Clachnaharry Sea Lock, the easternmost point of the canal, to start our coast to coast journey. We will then follow the barge to Dochgarroch where we'll stay for the night. Distance: 7 miles/11km; Height gain: 15m/49ft

Meals:  D

The day’s walk begins with a climb to join the Great Glen Way above Loch Dochfour, before taking us to the weird and wonderful Abriachan Eco-Café for lunch. The afternoon is mostly downhill, with our first glimpses of Loch Ness. The barge will pick us up at Drumnadrochit and we'll cruise to Foyers for the night. Distance: 14.5 miles/23.2km; Height gain: 350m/1148ft

Meals:  B,L,D

The day will start with a breakfast cruise back to Drumnadrochit to continue our walk. From the mooring we head through Drumnadrochit, before ascending, with views over the town and the loch, to our lunch stop at the charming Grotaig Pottery. In the afternoon we'll descend through some beautiful pine woodland back to the loch side, where the barge will pick us up at Alltsigh. We will then cruise to Fort Augustus where we will spend the night. Distance: 13 miles/21km; Height gain: 400m/1312ft

Meals:  B,L,D

In the morning we will once again cruise during breakfast back to Alltsigh, where the barge will drop us ashore. The morning will take us to Invermoriston for lunch and perhaps some tea and coffee at the local hotel. In the afternoon the path splits in two. The High Route leads above the trees for breath-taking views over the Monadhliath Mountains. The Low Route stays below the tree line with viewpoints across Loch Ness. Both routes converge at Fort Augustus, which is where the barge will be waiting. Distance: 13 miles/21km; Height gain: 200m/656ft (High Route: +1 mile/1.6km, +300m/984ft)

Meals:  B,L,D

From Fort Augustus, the walk takes us up a small hill (120m) which commands an awesome view over the full length of Loch Ness. This will be our last view of the loch as the route takes us back down to the canal towpath to meet the barge at Cullochy Lock for lunch. The afternoon walk is almost entirely flat as it follows an old railway bed and General Wade’s Military Road along the shores of the picturesque and secluded Loch Oich. The barge will be awaiting our return at the far end of Loch Oich at Laggan Locks. Distance: 11.5 miles/18.5km; Height gain: 140m/460ft

Meals:  B,L,D

The walk in the morning follows close to the shore of Loch Lochy with some stunning and dramatic views of the Munros to the North and, on a clear day, our first sight of Ben Nevis to the South. After lunch on the shore of the loch, the walk goes inland, past Chia-Aig Falls and Loch Arkaig, and into the Achnacarry Estate, home of the Clan Chief of the Camerons of Loch Eil. We then return to the loch side, passing wonderful native woodland along the shore of the loch, before returning to the barge at Gairlochy. Distance: 14.7 miles/23.5km; Height gain: 140m/460ft

Meals:  B,L,D

The final morning walk follows the canal towpath, passing the only hand wound bridge left in the Great Glen at Moy and takes in fantastic views of Ben Nevis. We will finish at Corpach Sea Lock, the most westerly point on the canal and the end of our coast to coast journey! A taxi will then return us to the barge for final goodbyes and departures. Distance: 8 miles/13km; Height gain: -20m/65.5ft

Meals:  B

Expand all | Collapse all

Boarding time is 14:00/2pm. After meeting the crew and other guests we will be taken by taxi/minibus to the westernmost point of the canal, at Corpach, to start our first walk of the week. It follows the canal towpath, with excellent views of Ben Nevis, to Gairlochy where the barge will be berthed overnight. Distance: 8 miles/13km; Height gain: <20m/65ft

Meals:  D

From Gairlochy, the walk will take us around Bunarkaig Bay, with great views down Loch Lochy and into the Achnacarry Estate, home of the clan chief of the Camerons of Loch Eil. We will pass the stunning Chia-Aig Falls and return to the side of Loch Lochy for lunch at Clunes. In the afternoon we will walk the remainder of Loch Lochy to Laggan Locks, where the barge will be awaiting our return. Alternatively you could remain on the barge and watch the scenery from the water. Distance: 14.7 miles/23.5km; Height gain: 140m/460ft

Meals:  B,L,D

Leaving Laggan, the morning walk takes us up a short section of canal and onto the shores of the beautiful and secluded Loch Oich. Some of the trail will be on the disused Spean Bridge to Fort Augustus railway line, and the rest is on General Wade’s Military Road, Scotland’s first metalled road. This will lead us to Cullochy, where we will join the barge for lunch. A 5 mile (8km) walk makes up the rest of the journey to Fort Augustus, first along a towpath and then up a small hill (120m) which gives fantastic views right up Loch Ness. The descent takes us into Fort Augustus. Distance: 11.5 miles/18.5km; Height gain: 140m/460ft

Meals:  B,L,D

The day’s walk starts with a climb out of Fort Augustus to a viewpoint over the loch. The path then splits in two. The High Route leads above the trees for breath-taking views over the Monadhliath Mountains. The Low Route stays below the tree line with viewpoints across Loch Ness. Both routes converge at Invermoriston, where we will have lunch. In the afternoon there is another climb out of Invermoriston before descending to Alltsigh, where the barge will pick us up and take us back to Fort Augustus for the night. Distance: 13 miles/21km; Height gain: 200m/656ft (High Route: +1 mile/1.6km, +300m/984ft)

Meals:  B,L,D

The day will start with a breakfast cruise back to Alltsigh to continue our journey. After being dropped at the beach, the morning will be spent climbing through some lovely pine forest to the pottery and café at Grotaig. There we will stop for lunch (and maybe some retail therapy at the pottery!) before heading, via country roads, down into Drumnadrochit. At the far side of town we will be picked up by the barge again and taken across the loch to overnight at Foyers. Distance: 13 miles/21km; Height gain: 400m/1312ft

Meals:  B,L,D

The barge will drop us in the morning. We will then climb one last time, getting our final views of Loch Ness, up to the Abriachan Forest School and Eco-Café, the most eclectic lunch stop of the week. After lunch we will descend through the trees to Dochgarroch to re-join the barge for a well earned dinner. Distance: 14.5 miles/23.2km; Height gain: 350m/1148ft

Meals:  B,L,D

The final walk of the week takes us from Dochgarroch, along the canal towpath, to Clachnaharry Sea Lock, the end of the canal and the end of our coast to coast journey! Distance: 7 miles/11km; Height gain: 15m/49ft

Meals:  B


Map

Elevation

The map and elevation chart are for illustrative purposes only and meant to provide general guidelines.


Inclusions

  • 6 breakfasts, 5 packed lunches, 6 dinners (does not include drinks)
  • Breakfast includes porridge, cereal, yoghurt and fresh fruit, followed by toast and a hot cooked option. At lunchtime we have home-made bread, soup and fresh salads. Packed lunches are individually prepared.
  • Dinner consists of a main course with two options, dessert and cheeseboard. Local produce is sourced wherever possible including: fresh fish; Scottish venison and Scottish beef. Haggis, meat or vegetarian is provided as an option on one of the meals.
  • The chef is happy to cater for most dietary needs as long as you advise us on booking.
  • Daily tea and coffee
  • 7 nights accommodation aboard a category C+ barge with ensuite facilities on a twin share basis. The compact cabins are configured with split level beds. Single cabins are limited and on a request basis (supplement applies).
  • Boat crew consisting of skipper, chef, walking guide (who accompanies the group on the daily walks) and bosun.

  • Travel to and from the start and end point of the trip
  • Drinks - payable locally
  • Items of a personal nature
  • Entrance fees and excursions not specified
  • Tips - while tipping is not obligatory, it is customary to offer a tip if the guide and crew have done a good job. As a guide we would recommend GBP20-25 per person (to be distributed between the leader, captain and crew).
  • Travel insurance - mandatory *cruise cover may be required - check with your insurer

Cabins


Grading

introductory to moderate  

Introductory to moderate, walking approx 8 miles/ 13 km to 14.7miles/ 23.5km. 3-7 hours The route has many flat sections close to the canal and lochs but also includes some short steep hills and longer hills. There is an option to stay on board should you not want to walk some sections.


Departure dates


Notes

M
Mid Season
H
High Season
1
begins in Inverness
2
begins in Fort William
Note:
2023 Mid season is from 17 Sep to 24 Oct. High season is from 29 Apr to 22 Sep. 2024 Mid season is from 27 Apr to 3 May & 28 Sep to 4 Oct. High season is from 4 May to 20 Sep. Supplements apply for mid and high season departures. D = Departure on board the Fingal of Caledonia, K= Departure on board the Ros Crana.
Note:
Important: The cancellation and payment terms and conditions are different for this trip. Please see the detailed trip notes for information.

Want to organise a private group?

Fundraising events, sporting groups, family treats; learn how you can organise a Private Group from just 6 travellers.

Total Priceper person from

$2290USD

Options & Supplements*
    *Prices listed are per person

Trip reviews


Why travel with us

Making Europe Affordable

We offer different levels of accommodation and comfort so that even the most budget conscious can treat themselves to active holidays on Europe's most celebrated tracks and trails. Our trips are great value for money because you only pay for what you want.  

Self-Guided Specialists

Our wide range of self-guided itineraries embody the UTracks philosophy of exploring Europe your way. We handle the logistics so all that's left for you to do is enjoy exploring Europe at your own pace. Most depart daily with a minimum of two people, meaning maximum flexibility.

Our Wide Range

With close to 400 trips in almost 50 countries, including the largest range of bike & boat holidays in Europe, we're confident that we can organise an Alps walk, Camino de Santiago or Via Francigena experience, Food Lovers' trip or a tour in a lesser-known pocket of Europe that you will love. 

Videos

Explore Scotland by Bike and Boat Tour | UTracks Active Travel
Join Newsletter
<img src='/portals/World%20Expeditions/Icons/brands/small/ADS.jpg' class='brandPopoverIcon' alt="Adventures South"> <div class='brandPopoverBrandName'>Adventure South</div>
Adventure South NZ is unrivalled in their geographic coverage, originality and overall quality of adventures holidays in New Zealand. Choose from walking, cycling, winter or multi-activity holidays, on either the North or South Island.
<img src='/portals/World%20Expeditions/Icons/brands/small/AWH.jpg' class='brandPopoverIcon' alt="Australian Walking Holidays"> <div class='brandPopoverBrandName'>Australian Walking Holidays</div>
Australian Walking Holidays specialises in small group guided walking adventures. Since 1982 we have been guiding small groups of travellers on Australia's finest walks across our tropical, coastal or red centre landscapes.
<img src='/portals/World%20Expeditions/Icons/brands/small/GCT.jpg' class='brandPopoverIcon' alt="Great Canadian Trails"> <div class='brandPopoverBrandName'>Great Canadian Trails</div>
Great Canadian Trails specialises in active holidays in Canada. With both guided and supported self-guided options available, our unique itineraries draw upon some of Canada's most inspiring parks, trails and landscapes from coast to coast.
<img src='/portals/World%20Expeditions/Icons/brands/small/HUM.jpg' class='brandPopoverIcon' alt="Humac Challenge"> <div class='brandPopoverBrandName'>Huma Charity Challenge</div>
Huma enables those with adventurous spirits to challenge themselves and make a difference for a cause close to their heart. Travel, fundraise and meet life-long friends on one of Huma's meaningful and unique challenges around the world.
<img src='/portals/World%20Expeditions/Icons/brands/small/WB.jpg?v2' class='brandPopoverIcon' alt="Walkers’ Britain"> <div class='brandPopoverBrandName'>Walkers' Britain</div>
Walkers' Britain (formerly Sherpa Expeditions) have specialised in walking and cycling trips in the United Kingdom and Europe since 1973. Explore iconic trails and destinations on a self guided or small group active holiday with Walkers' Britain.
<img src='/portals/World%20Expeditions/Icons/brands/small/WB.jpg?v2' class='brandPopoverIcon' alt="Walkers’ Britain"> <div class='brandPopoverBrandName'>Walkers' Britain</div>
Walkers' Britain (formerly Sherpa Expeditions) have specialised in walking and cycling trips in the United Kingdom and Europe since 1973. Explore iconic trails and destinations on a self guided or small group active holiday with Walkers' Britain.
<img src='/portals/World%20Expeditions/Icons/brands/small/TAS.jpg' class='brandPopoverIcon' alt="Tasmania Expeditions"> <div class='brandPopoverBrandName'>Tasmanian Expeditions</div>
Tasmanian Expeditions is the most experienced operator of treks and adventure travel holidays in Tasmania. We own and operate the most comprehensive range of adventure holidays available across Tasmania's varied landscapes.
<img src='/portals/World%20Expeditions/Icons/brands/small/UTX-new.jpg' class='brandPopoverIcon' alt="Utracks"> <div class='brandPopoverBrandName'>UTracks</div>
UTracks are the active European holiday specialists. Whether you prefer cycling or walking, 2-star or 4-star, small groups or self guided, land, river or sea – UTracks can help you to explore Europe exactly the way you want.
<img src='/portals/World%20Expeditions/Icons/brands/small/WYA.jpg' class='brandPopoverIcon' alt="World Expeditions Schools"> <div class='brandPopoverBrandName'>World Expeditions Schools</div>
World Expeditions Schools is our specialist division dedicated to organising tailor made overseas school group adventures. Specialists in Service Learning projects, choose from more destinations than any other school group provider.
<img src='/portals/World%20Expeditions/Icons/brands/small/YOM.jpg' class='brandPopoverIcon' alt="Yomads"> <div class='brandPopoverBrandName'>Yomads</div>
Yomads offers adventures for the 20s and 30s on six continents. Designed as a way to bring young and likeminded travellers together, Yomads caters to those interested in lightly structured and active trips that allow freedom to roam and explore.
<img src='/portals/World%20Expeditions/Icons/brands/small/ACT.jpg' class='brandPopoverIcon' alt="Australian Cycle Tours"> <div class='brandPopoverBrandName'>Australian Cycle Tours</div>
Australian Cycle Tours specialises in high quality self guided and guided cycling experiences in a selection of the most beautiful regions in Australia.
<img src='/portals/World%20Expeditions/Icons/brands/small/WEX.jpg' class='brandPopoverIcon' alt="World Expeditions"> <div class='brandPopoverBrandName'>World Expeditions</div>
The pioneers of original, worldwide adventure travel holidays since 1975
<img src='/portals/World%20Expeditions/Icons/brands/small/TJX.jpg' class='brandPopoverIcon' alt="Trail Journeys"> <div class='brandPopoverBrandName'>Trail Journeys</div>
Self-guided cycling experts on New Zealand's Otago Rail Trail and more
<img src='/portals/World%20Expeditions/Icons/brands/small/BMAC.jpg' class='brandPopoverIcon' alt="Blue Mountains Adventure Company"> <div class='brandPopoverBrandName'>Blue Mountains Adventure Company</div>
The original Blue Mountains canyoning, hiking, climbing and abseiling experts
<img src='/portals/World%20Expeditions/Icons/brands/small/GWNZ.jpg' class='brandPopoverIcon' alt="Great Walks of New Zealand"> <div class='brandPopoverBrandName'>Great Walks of New Zealand</div>
Explore New Zealand's most spectacular wilderness regions with the self-guided hiking experts
<img src='/portals/World%20Expeditions/Icons/brands/small/NAA.jpg' class='brandPopoverIcon' alt="North America Active"> <div class='brandPopoverBrandName'>North America Active</div>
USA Canada hiking & cycling tour specialists, choose from self-guided or guided trips