A guided hike along the West Highland Way
Step into the wild beauty of the Scottish Highlands on the legendary West Highland Way. Stretching 157km (98 miles) from the outskirts of Glasgow at Milngavie to the foot of Ben Nevis in Fort William, this iconic trail takes you on a journey through some of Scotland’s most spectacular landscapes.
The path unfolds with quiet country parks giving way to the shimmering shores of Loch Lomond, the largest loch in Scotland. From here, the scenery grows ever more dramatic - heather-clad moors, rushing rivers, and the vast openness of Rannoch Moor, where the sky seems endless. As you head north, jagged peaks rise around you, with Glen Coe’s rugged mountains and the shadow of Ben Nevis marking the final chapter of the trail.
Highlights
- Explore the glorious Scottish Highlands
- Experience the wildness of this ancient land
- Hike ancient cattle droving trails, and coaching routes
- Taste the flavours of fine produce and enjoy a wee dram
- Sample local hospitality in characterful inns
- Optional afternoon indoor ice/rock climbing in Kinlochleven
- Soak up the history of the Clans and communities
First opened in 1980, the West Highland Way has become Scotland’s most famous long-distance walk, and for good reason. Every step reveals a new face of the Highlands - tranquil loch-side paths, wide-open moorland, and steep mountain passes - all steeped in history and Highland spirit.
Whether it’s your first long-distance hike or a return to old trails, walking the West Highland Way is an unforgettable immersion in Scotland’s wild heart.
The West Highland Way is normally tackled from south to north, the thinking behind this is that the southern stages are easier and will prepare you for the more demanding northern stages. Whatever the route you will come away amazed by the scenery, the hospitality, the history and the food!
Holiday Reviews
Grade: Intermediate
READ GRADE DESCRIPTIONAt a Glance
| Holiday Type | Walking |
| Duration | 9 Days |
| Group Size | 4-10 |
| Minimum Age | 18 |
| Maximum Altitude | 550m (1800ft) |
| Meet In | Milngavie, Scotland |
Dates and Prices
2027 Departures
What's Included
- The guiding services of a fully qualified Mountain Leader
- 6 nights bed and breakfast in a twin room
- 2 nights bed and breakfast in a Bunkhouse, usually in small shared rooms of 2 or 4 people
- Daily luggage transfers to your accommodation (1 bag per person), additional bags will incur a fee
- Booking of restaurants for group evening meals, the cost of the meals are not included
What's Not Included
- Lunches & Dinners
- Travel Insurance - required
- Miscellaneous personal spending
- Travel to meeting point & from departure point
Itinerary
This evening your guide will meet you at your accommodation in Milngavie at approximately 1830 hrs. Your guide, who will be a fully qualified Mountain Leader, will be able to answer questions about the trip ahead, and discuss other matters relating to your holiday. We have chosen Milngavie, which is the gateway to the West Highlands, as our meeting point as it is easily reached by bus, rail and air. It also makes it convenient if you would like to arrive a day early and take the short train journey into Glasgow, just 24 minutes, to explore this world famous and historic city.
This morning we set off from Milngavie which is pronounced 'Miln-gie'. The town is situated on the north western edge of Greater Glasgow, about 10km (6 miles) from the city centre. The official start of your epic Scottish journey is in the centre of Milngavie where there is a granite obelisk marking the West Highland Way. From the town centre we will make our way towards Mugdock Country Park on the first leg of our Scottish adventure. Today's route runs through the ancient Earldom of Lennox, and between the hills of the Campsie Fells and Blane Water. We will take a good path through what is very rural scenery to the lovely village of Drymen. En route we may stop at Glengoyne Distillery where you can purchase whisky miniatures to enjoy that evening. For the uninitiated a 'wee dram' is the Scottish term for a small whisky. Sometimes the 'wee dram' is not so little! We detour off the West Highland Way to overnight in Drymen, a popular stopover which is in Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park. The Park was established by the Scottish Government in 2002. Trossachs' is a word that refers to the sparkling lochs, hills, forests and village of the area. The Trossachs' have often been described as the Highlands in miniature.
Distance: 19km (12 miles) Ascent: 140m (459ft) Descent: 119m (390ft) Duration: 7-8 hrs
This morning we begin with a hearty Scottish breakfast, before leaving Drymen and rejoining the Way as it heads towards Conic Hill. The view from Conic Hill is wonderful, and is a taste of the epic landscapes you will enjoy on the West Highland Way. Conic Hill sits astride what is known as the Great Divide which separates the highlands and the lowlands of Scotland. The climb to Conic is quite steep, but worth it to view one of the worlds most famous stretches of water, Loch Lomond. Immortalised in song, poetry and history and known across the world for its 'Bonnie Banks'. The Loch has many islands and covers 43 square kilometres (27 square miles). We then head for the tiny village of Balmaha on the shores of the Loch with its 'white-washed' cottages and traditional buildings. There is a Visitor Centre here which has a lot of information on the local flora and fauna. The trail from Balmaha to Rowardennan is truly beautiful winding along the lochside through ancient woodlands and around headlands. A superb hiking day and one to be savoured as we head ever northwards to spend our night on the Bonnie Banks at Rowardennan.
Distance: 23km (14.3 miles) Ascent: 558m (1831ft) Descent: 554m (1817ft) Duration: 8 - 9 hrs
Leaving Rowardennan, the West Highland Way takes in the northern, more remote section of Loch Lomond. The Loch in this area has waters that plunge to a depth of 190m (620 ft). The route is challenging today particularly north of Inversnaid, and has a sense of wildness and mountains soaring to the sky. A highlight of our trail today is the spectacular waterfall at Inversnaid. We will be able to get up close as the path takes a footbridge over the fall as it cascades into the Loch. Our path climbs gently until it is high over the Loch giving great views of the peaks of the Arrochar Alps. The path is rough but improves after we pass Doune Bothy. A 'bothy' is a Scottish shepherds hut, normally a small stone built building. There are many in the mountains which are 'open' and where hikers can camp for the night. Tonight you will be able to take a 'dram' at the infamous Drovers Inn. This historic Inn dates back to 1705 and is said to be haunted, it also prides itself on its lack of modernisation and still looks like it might have been 300 years ago. One of its historic patrons was Rob Roy MacGregor the famous cattle rustler. Cattle played an important part in the Highland economy with a chieftain’s wealth measured by the number of his cattle.
Distance: 22.5km (14 miles) Ascent: 265m (869ft) Descent: 278m (2040ft) Duration: 8 - 9 hrs
Now you will enter a different landscape, of soaring mountains and gentle walking along the glens. The summits of Ben More and Stob Binnean are impressive and offer a wonderful backdrop to our walk. While the views back to Loch Lomond provide a great photo opportunity. We will follow the River Falloch where you can glimpse the Falls of Falloch just before we reach the village of Crianlarich. Onwards the surrounding hills shepherd you towards Tyndrum initially following the River Fillan across the valley floor. At Kirkton Farm we will walk past the ruins of St Fillan’s Priory and graveyard. Little remains of the Priory, established by Robert the Bruce in 1318, as the stones were quarried to build the neighbouring farmhouse and outbuildings. A short distance away to the north west is St Fillan's Holy Pool, which was blessed by the saint and said to cure the insane. Eventually, we will follow the River Canonise into the village of Tyndrum where we stop for the night.
Distance: 19.5km (12.1 miles) Ascent: 397m (1302ft) Descent: 173m (567ft) Duration: 6-7 hrs
We have our longest day today, and as we leave Tyndrum the scenery is stunning skirting the steep sides of Beinn Odhar, and the pyramid of Beinn Dorain sits ahead. This shapely mountain will be our companion all the way along the glen until we reach Bridge of Orchy where there is the chance of a stop for a drink. After Bridge of Orchy the West Highland Way joins the Old Military Road. There are many 'Military Roads' in Scotland which were constructed across the Highlands in the mid-18th century as an attempt by the British Government to bring order. This part of Scotland was part of the Jacobite uprising and rebellion of 1715. The section after Bridge of Orchy some would say is the most scenic section of the Way, however, if you feel you have already done enough for the day you can take the local bus to the Kingshouse and enjoy an early 'refreshment' in Glencoe.
Leaving Bridge of Orchy it skirts high above Loch Tulla with a steep climb, and then descent, before joining the route across Rannoch Moor. The road we follow was, unbelievably, the main road until 1933! The Moor is a wonderful, exposed and lonely place that was covered by a giant icecap that is now a huge peat bog. It is sometimes described as one of the last great wildernesses of Europe. It is a long day today and we will keep moving steadily while taking in the views. As we arrive at the 17th century Kingshouse Hotel at the entrance to the famed Glencoe we have one of the most photographed Scottish mountains lying before us. Buachaille Etive Mor, gaelic for the 'The Great Herdsman of Etive' is a mountain that can 'move' even the hardest heart. Have your camera ready!
Distance: 30.5km (19 miles) Ascent: 551m (1807ft) Descent: 541m (1775ft) Duration: 9-10 hrs
We follow in the footsteps of 007 today as we pass Glen Etive where part of the James Bond movie 'Skyfall' was filmed. We also enjoy views into the historic Glencoe and the 'weeping glen' which was the scene of the infamous massacre of Clan MacDonald in 1692. Members of the Clan Campbell accepted and enjoyed the hospitality of the MacDonalds and then murdered the families while they slept. The mountains here are truly beautiful and it is a day to be savoured. We hike along the glen towards Altnafeadh which is near the starting point of the trail for climbers heading to the cliffs on Buachaille Etive Mor. It is here that we begin our zig-zag climb up what is known as the Devil's Staircase which takes you to the highest point of the West Highland Way at 550m (1804ft). The route then wanders across moorland before working its way down to Kinlochleven.
Distance: 14.3km (8.9miles) Ascent: 349m (1145ft) Descent: 592m (1856ft) Duration: 5-6 hrs
Our final day begins with a steep climb from Kinlochleven before the gradient relents and we enter a remote glen where we wander past deserted 'sheilings', or ancient summer farms where the Highlanders grazed their livestock. Before us we find the Lairigmor, which means the 'great pass', which gives us pleasant walking between impressive mountains. The Way follows the glen as it bends to the north, then through woodland before heading towards Glen Nevis. Once into the Glen you have Ben Nevis, the highest mountain in the British Isles. The summit which stands at 1345m (4411ft) is the collapsed dome of an ancient volcano. Here there are the ruins of an observatory which was continuously staffed from 1883 to 1904. Two miles further along the Glen will bring us to the official end of the West Highland Way at the main street of Fort William. Perhaps tonight we will raise a 'wee dram' or two in celebration?
Distance: 24km (15 miles) Ascent: 534m (1751ft) Descent: 533m (1748ft) Duration: 7-8 hrs
Tracks and Trails services end after breakfast.
It is our aim to complete the proposed itinerary outlined above, however, it may be necessary for our guides/instructors to adjust the daily itinerary based on the weather conditions, group safety and enjoyment.
Accommodation
We aim to accommodate our guests in well-situated, clean, characterful, family run accommodation. Our trip fees are based on two people sharing a bedroom, what we call a 'twin' means two single beds in one bedroom. If you are booking as a single traveller you will share with someone of the same gender. A single room may be available for your private use, but requires early booking and will incur a supplementary charge. For further details refer to Trip Information > Single Supplements. Our suggested accommodation, listed below, is subject to availability at the time of booking and is an indication of our accommodation, not a guarantee. Note it is unusual to have air conditioning in bedrooms in the mountain areas where our trips take place. If you have any questions about the accommodation please contact us.
We prefer family run hotels, but on the West Highland Way we may have to use an hotel which is part of a commercial 'chain'. The trip fees for this adventure cover your Bed and Breakfast, but do not include dinner. In Scotland it is normal to book B&B and to choose your own dinner from the menu, and then 'pay as you go'. The only exception is IF we stay at Rowardennan Hostel when dinner is included. On this trip we may stay in bunkhouse/hostel type accommodation on two nights when you will sleep in bunk beds.
Premier Inn, Milngavie, Glasgow
The Premier Inn at Milngavie is a modern building providing comfortable rooms.
It is very unusual for Tracks and Trails to book you into this type of larger hotel, as we normally use family run accommodation, however, Milngavie has limited availability for hiking groups and we find that the Premier Inn works well for our meeting point. It is only a 15 minute walk from the railway station. It has a pleasant bar area, and the breakfast is hearty. If you arrive a day early it is very close to Glasgow which can be reached by train and it is convenient for a day of shopping and culture in this world famous city.
Buchanan Arms, Drymen
The Buchanan Arms Hotel is to be found in the heart of the Loch Lomond and Trossachs National Park, near the shores of Loch Lomond.
The hotel, in the town of Drymen, has 52 bedrooms each with their own individual decor. They rooms are en suite, and include hairdryer, hospitality tray and Satellite TV.
Rowardennan Lodge Youth Hostel, Rowardennan
Rowardennan Lodge Youth Hostel is a lovely old building which sits on the banks of Loch Lomond with its own jetty and great views across the Loch. A lovely place to enjoy a craft beer or glass of wine in the cosy lounge.
The Lodge has a range of private rooms as well as dormitory accommodation. We would be aiming to secure private rooms for our guests, but these are in short supply and high demand. As a result we will often book small dormitories, and on the rare occasion we may have to mix genders in the dorms. We do stress we do everything possible to avoid this, so do feel free to contact us to ask the rooming status for any particular trip dates. The Lodge will provide breakfast, and a 3 course dinner, and you can order a packed lunch for the following day if you would like one. Confectionary and soft drinks are available to purchase at reception, and wifi if free to all guests. You can read more about the Hostelling movement in Scotland and the aims of the organisation here.
The Drovers Inn, Inverannan
The Drovers Inn, established in 1705, is famous for being infamous. Its reputation precedes it on the trail, and believe us when we say it is an experience!
This ancient building appears to have had little done to it since the outlaw hero 'Rob Roy' stopped for a regular dram in the 1700's. For over 300 years this Inn has welcomed visitors into its cosy bar. Stepping into the Drovers is like stepping back in time. Think 'Outlander' and a red haired outlaw leaning on the bar, except his name would have been Rob Roy, rather than Jamie Fraser. The Inn has 15 bedrooms with tea/coffee making facilities, and hairdryer. If you want a unique experience then Room 6 might just provide a visit by the resident ghost.
Tyndrum Lodges, Tyndrum
Tyndrum Lodges are situated by the river and on our arrival route to Tyndrum which makes them a perfect location on our hike.
The Lodges are clean and comfortable, and the bedrooms spacious. There are tea and coffee making facilities in the rooms. The following day we have a long hike to Kingshouse and having an early breakfast will be taken here.
The Kingshouse Bunkhouse, Glencoe
The Kingshouse Hotel in Glencoe has been welcoming hikers for many years. We will be staying in the new Bunkhouse facility which sits next to the main Hotel building.
We use the Bunkhouse as the Hotel often requires a booking of 2 nights minimum which does not suit our hiking itinerary. However, if you wish to upgrade to the hotel do contact us and we will enquire. The setting in Glencoe is truly beautiful, and has inspired writers over the centuries, including previous guests have included Wordsworth and Coleridge. The Bunkhouse is basic, but new, clean and comfortable. We eat in the main hotel, and can enjoy the ambience of a wee dram in the hotel bar. The bedrooms have shared shower rooms and toilets, there is a drying room for any damp kit, and you can even do your laundry if you need to. It is a Bunk house which means the beds are bunks, so be prepared to have to climb up to bed. We reckon if you can walk the West Highland Way then you can manage a few steps on a ladder! Earplugs are a good idea to aid a better nights sleep.
Tigh na Cheo, Kinlochleven
We can be sure of a friendly welcome from Lewis when we arrive at Tigh na Cheo Guesthouse.
All bedrooms at Tigh na Cheo are ensuite, decorated to a high standard and offer a very comfortable sleep. There is complimentary tea and coffee available. Each room has a bath, and is perfect for relaxing and unwinding after a hard day hiking. There is one room which has a shower and no bath, and that is the triple room which we may need to use. All bedrooms have tea/coffee making facilities, hairdryers, and TV/DVD player. There is also a large drying room for any damp items, and free wifi. The breakfast is a Scottish cooked breakfast and you will not go hungry.
The Alexandra Hotel, Fort William
The Alexandra Hotel is ideally place to access Fort William high street, and also the railway station for your departure plans.
An open-fire features in the hotel’s lounge where guests can relax with a drink. Local, Scottish produce is served in the Alexandra’s traditionally decorated restaurant. The hotel has 93 bedrooms, and has been welcoming guests for many generations. Rooms are spacious and have a private bathroom with a selection of toiletries. A TV, work desk and tea and coffee facilities are included in all rooms. All bedrooms are en suite, and have bathrooms, television, hairdryer, and tea and coffee making facilities. The Jacobite Steam Rail Station is less than a 5-minute walk away.
Trip Information
Arrival
Milngavie is very close to the world famous city of Glasgow and is well served by regular bus and train services from across the UK. The train journey from central Glasgow is only 24 minutes. To help plan your arrival by train or bus, use Traveline Scotland. If we are staying at the Premier Inn in Milngavie, it is 15 minutes walk from the railway station. If the weather is inclement you may want to pre-book a taxi to pick you up on arrival as there is no guarantee there will be taxis waiting at the station.
Scotland is well served with international airports in Glasgow and in the capital city of Edinburgh. Edinburgh in particular has various transatlantic flights. You can travel from Edinburgh airport to Glasgow, then on to Milngavie, by public transport in approximately 1.5 hours. Check out the train times here.
Departure
You can travel onwards from Fort William by train or by bus with CityLink from Fort William to Glasgow, or Edinburgh. The train journey is along the famous west highland line and the scenery viewed from the train is stunning.
You might also like to consider an extra night visiting Scotland's capital city, Edinburgh. One of the most historic cities in the world Edinburgh is well worth a visit.
It is your responsibility to ensure any insurance taken out is appropriate for your trip and the activity you will be undertaking. Tracks & Trails cannot advise on insurance policies or be held responsible if, in the event of a claim, your insurance is inadequate.
Activity, Injury and Mountain Rescue It is a condition of booking you are insured for mountain rescue, medical expenses, injury, illness, death, cost of repatriation and personal accident risks. The exception to the mountain rescue insurance requirement is if the trip is taking place in the United Kingdom or Norway where mountain rescue is free of charge. Ensure your insurance covers you to the maximum altitude given on your trip itinerary. The maximum altitude can be checked in the 'At A Glance' box on the trip page.
Trip Cancellation/Curtailment Insurance Insurance should be booked as soon as we confirm your trip is going ahead. Deposit and balance payments are non-refundable unless it is Tracks and Trails who cancel the trip due to a failure to reach the minimum numbers required. In this case we offer a full refund or the option to transfer to another trip.
Baggage Loss/Equipment Damage We advise insurance which covers baggage loss/equipment damage.
All the above is detailed in our Terms and Conditions. For further information on insurance options click here.
When packing for a trip in the mountains it is important to have the appropriate equipment and clothing. This kit list features items we believe are necessary for the weather you might encounter and the accommodation you will be staying in.
Equipment
- Rucksack – 30-35 litres, with waist and chest strap
- Rucksack – waterproof liner/cover
- Walking Boots - warm and waterproof
- Walking Poles - advised
- Bags to waterproof items, such as documentation
- Gaiters - useful on moorland
- Emergency foil blanket
**There is a day of 30km (19 miles). Think carefully about footwear for this day, as you may want to use a lighter boot or walking shoe to avoid blisters. **
Clothing
- Waterproof jacket - essential, this must keep you dry during a day of heavy rain or at least as dry as any waterproof jacket ever keeps you!
- Waterproof trousers - essential
- Trousers - windproof and warm
- Thermal top - long sleeves
- Thin fleece - long sleeves
- Hiking T-shirts
- Hiking Shorts
- Waistcoat - fleece/wind stopper
- Gloves x 2 (one thick and one thin)
- Warm hat
- Sun hat
- Head/ear band
- Duvet jacket (or second warm layer)
- Scarf or 'Buff' for neck
- Socks - 2 or 3 pairs
Comfort
- Lip salve
- Sunscreen - essential
- Sunglasses
- Snack bars/chocolate
- Tissues - we recommend biodegradable bags to dispose of rubbish
- Anti-bacterial hand wash
- Insect repellant for the famous 'midges'
- Midge net - refer to the 'Weather' section on this page for more information
Personal First Aid
- Personal medication
- Blister plasters
- Blister tape eg 'Strappal'
- Painkillers/anti-inflammatory
- Glucose tablets/Energy gel
- 2 x Rehydration sachets - eg Dioralyte
- Throat lozenges
- Antiseptic cream/spray
Documentation
- Travel Insurance
- Passport
- Credit card
- Cash - £ Sterling
Additional Items
- Slippers for use at accommodation
- Clothing for use at accommodation
- Hair dryer if required
- Boot dryers - lightweight electric boot dryers are useful
- Camera/ Book/Music
- Toiletries – soap/shower gel; not all accommodation supplies these
- Ear plugs - if room sharing/Kingshouse Bunkhouse
- Small thermos for hot drinks
- Head torch - plus spare batteries
- Padlock - for luggage being transferred
**Supplementary snacks if you follow a gluten free or coeliac diet**
Leaders are all first aid trained and carry their own first aid kit
On many trips there will be an element of 'group kit'. This kit will will be minimal and usually a case of sharing a few lightweight 'survival shelters'. For example, on a week-long trip you may carry a shelter for one day before passing it to the next person. If you are booking a trip in winter there will be a few additional safety items, such as a snow shovel, probe, spare ski pole etc.
When booking a holiday as a solo traveller a twin bedded room comprising of two single beds, is booked as standard. This will be with someone of the same gender unless you request to pay extra for your own room. Single rooms are often limited in supply so if you would like to pay a supplement for a single room we urge you to get in touch as soon as possible. This trip has a single supplement of £795 in 2026 and £840 in 2027.
We go to great lengths to work with first class guides who are passionate about their work. They are all fully qualified, insured, and hold the correct documentation.
Please note your guide has complete discretion to make a daily decision on whether or not to take the advertised route based on the weather and the ability of the members of the group. They have our authority to make any route changes they believe are necessary in the interests of safety and enjoyment.
Your hiking guide will be a fully qualified and experienced International Mountain Leader or UK Mountain Leader. Mountain Leaders are not only qualified to ensure the safe management of the group, but are also a source of knowledge about the local flora and fauna, and traditions of the area which you are visiting. You can learn more about our guides and instructors on the About Us page.
We have given this trip our 'Intermediate' grade which we have described below:
"Suitable for those of you who consider yourself ‘hill-walkers’, these trips involve longer days at an altitude of up to 2800m (9184ft) on good paths and tracks. A good level of fitness is required as these treks can involve considerable amounts of ascent and descent and the occasional difficult day on rougher paths. There may be an occasional day with ascents/descents of up to 1350m (4428ft). We would expect you to have previous experience of walking on consecutive days in the mountains, and have experience of hiking in bad weather. Expect to walk 5-7 hours per day."
However, the West Highland Way is a little different in that it is not about the altitude or the amount you climb or descend each day, which is negligible by alpine standards, but it is about the distance. So less climbing than is normal for 'Intermediate' trips but greater distance. This trip has long days due to the km's (miles) that are walked, especially on two of the days when we walk 30km (18.75 miles) and 24km (15 miles) to cover. On these days the length of day may exceed the grading for 'Intermediate' in terms of hours walked. The trails are good and are often gently undulating, or flat, but never have steep climbs such as alpine routes. For the hours expected to be walked each day please refer to the itinerary details.
On this trip your luggage (1 bag per person) will be transferred daily between your accommodation. You only need to hike with a light rucksack containing essential items. Your guide will explain which items you should pack for your hike. If you need additional luggage to be transferred then this is possible but will incur an extra fee which can be paid for in advance or at the time of the trip directly to the driver.
The statistics given on your itinerary relating to ascent, descent and distance should be used as a 'general' indication of the effort required. This is a guideline to help you decide if, based on previous experience, your fitness and stamina are correct for the trip. We ask you to note that the even the most modern of technology can show considerable variations in terms of ascent, descent, and in particular distance.
Your leader will carry the correct maps and you are not expected to navigate, but if you would like to have maps of the route the six maps listed below will cover it:
Ordance Survey Maps in the OS Explorer series, numbers - 392, 384, 377, OL39, OL38 and 348.
These can be ordered on line from the Ordance Survey.
Scotland is a land where you can easily experience four seasons in one day, and at any time of year. Everything from glorious sunshine through to wild winds, and heavy rain. In Scotland we say 'there is no such thing as bad weather, only bad waterproofs'. If overcast and cloudy, you may experience the Scottish 'midge'. These small biting insects are extremely irritating, but not dangerous, and you should come armed with 'midge' repellent such as Smidge which is DEET free. You can consider arriving with a 'midge net' which covers your head, and which you can buy at most outdoor stores in Scotland or on-line. We find that in May and October there is less likelihood of encountering midges, hence the dates we offer early summer, and late autumn. The 'midge' is part of Scottish legend and you might be disappointed if you didn't see one?
Food On our trips we encourage you to experience local tastes and dishes. If you are vegetarian catering for your diet is not generally a problem. If you have a 'special' diet because of an allergy/intolerance we ask that you make your needs clear on your booking form so we can discuss your requirements with the accommodation. A diet that is not related to an allergy/intolerance or beliefs cannot be catered for. It is simply not possible for mountain accommodation to deal with many variations in diet while providing meals for groups.
In addition, if you have an allergy/intolerance we would suggest you bring/purchase suitable snacks as a supplement to the picnic lunches. At times finding gluten free bread, for example, can be an issue. If you would like to discuss the suitability of a trip for a vegan diet, gluten or lactose intolerance please contact us. We request that you do not CHANGE your dietary requirements during the trip as we will have pre-ordered your meals.
Water If the accommodation has a problem with the water supply they will post a sign over the tap indicating that you must not drink the water, otherwise it is normal to drink from the tap. Hotels - It is not uncommon for restaurants to charge for tap water at the evening meal. If this is the case then Tracks and Trails will cover the cost. Mountain Huts - If your trip features a stay in a mountain hut/refuge and the tap water is not potable then Tracks and Trails will cover the cost of bottled water at the evening meal. Sparkling water is not included in this option and any cost should be covered by you.
Plastic credit or debit cards or smartphone pay systems are increasingly accepted throughout the areas where we run trips. Some countries, such as Norway, are moving towards a cashless society. However, in Europe, in the mountain areas where we run trips, a small amount of cash in the local currency is useful. For example, if you stop at a family-run mountain cafe or farm they may not accept cards or smartphone systems, and cash will be necessary. We recommend having enough cash in the local currency to pay for a few snacks and drinks. Whether to bring cash or not is at your own discretion.
It is useful to arrive at your destination with some cash in the local currency, however, on most occasions it is relatively easy to visit a 'cash machine' after arrival and withdraw money on a credit or debit card. In Scotland you will require £ Sterling. There are cash machines at Glasgow and Edinburgh airports and in Milngavie where you will start the hike.
A passport with 6 months remaining validity at the end of your stay is generally required. We suggest keeping your passport in your rucksack, and a paper copy of your passport in your luggage. If your trip does not include luggage support carry a paper copy with you, but separate from your passport. You should check passport requirements with the relevant embassy or consulate for the country you are visiting, paying attention to your citizenship. It is your responsibility to ensure that you have the correct travel documents and visas for your holiday. Visa requirements and charges are subject to change without notice.
NEW European Travel Regulations 2026 If you are travelling to Europe you may be impacted by a change to travel regulations. In the last quarter of 2026, the European Commission will roll out a U.S. style electronic travel authorisation system for visitors from countries that are currently not part of the EU. It is your responsibility to check for updates with regard to the introduction date.
If you would like help preparing for your adventure you could consider booking a Quick Fix session with personal trainer Kate Brown. This is aimed at those who want to get ready for any of our Summer activities. Your booking with Kate will involve a 45 minute 1:1 video consultation and action plan. You can read more about her ethos and experience here. We also offer free training videos on our YouTube channel - the following are aimed at those who hike in summer, and continue to do so in winter on snowshoes:
Tracks and Trails pays guides/instructors a fair and appropriate fee for their professional service. If you feel your guide/instructor has provided an excellent service that went 'above and beyond' then it is at the discretion of each guest whether to tip or not. Guests will often give a tip of between 2 - 5 per cent of the total value of their trip. It is entirely up to you and any gesture will no doubt be appreciated no matter the size.
Before booking consider whether you expect to be in the appropriate physical condition on the date of your departure to allow you to fully participate in and enjoy your holiday. If you have any doubts because of an illness or injury it would be advisable to check with your doctor. We advise you always carry your insurance documents with details of the Emergency Medical telephone number for your insurance provider, and your policy number.
GHIC For UK residents travelling to an EU country you should obtain and bring your Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC). The GHIC gives access to state healthcare in Europe either free or at a reduced cost. The GHIC is not a substitute for medical travel insurance.
EHIC If you have a UK European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) it will be valid until the expiry date on the card. Once it expires, you should apply for a GHIC.
We feel strongly about protecting the environment and do not encourage the use of single-use plastic items. We would ask that you arrive with a ‘water bottle’ or ‘hydration system’ that can be used repeatedly. We operate a zero tolerance for rubbish, and would ask you to remove all items from the mountain, this includes toilet tissue, and those items you consider to be bio-degradable.
The waste water in mountain huts, also known as refuges/rifugios, often runs into nearby streams and rivers with a potential impact on the eco-system, though in many places steps are now being taken to avoid this. Whether or not your trip involves staying in a mountain hut we would nevertheless recommend you consider nature friendly sunscreens which only contain mineral UV-blocking ingredients such as oxide, and titanium dioxide.
Working across international boundaries, and with various currencies means the price of our trips can change overnight. We have undertaken to guarantee that once you have paid your deposit the price of your trip is fixed. The website price may increase due to currency fluctuations, but we guarantee that the price advertised on the date of your booking will be maintained.
We believe in team work, and enjoy working with other small high quality companies. All our trips are organised by Tracks and Trails, but you may be joined by guests from other companies. Partners are carefully selected to ensure they reflect our ethos and standards. By working with other companies your chosen holiday may reach its minimum number earlier, allowing us to guarantee the trip and give you the go-ahead to book your travel. We guarantee that companies with whom we work will offer the same price package. If you have any questions about this policy contact us.
We do not include lunches in your trip fee for various reasons, the most important of which is food waste. Most people have particular tastes and requirements for 'trail' or 'hill' food and it is better you purchase your own snacks rather than throw away items from the picnic lunch which we would supply. Lunches on our trips are 'picnic' style lunches, in other words you take a packed lunch with sufficient snacks, food and fluid to sustain you throughout the day. Buying snacks and trying local specialities is a great way to inter-act with local people and to practise your language skills.
If there is the possibility of lunch being taken at a restaurant/farm/cafe beside the trail, your guide/instructor will advise you of this. Each evening you can order a picnic/sandwich from your accommodation, or your guide/instructor will advise you of options such as a local shop or market. In all cases we would ask you to settle any 'bill' for lunch or drinks the evening before you depart, and not in the morning when there may be a queue.
