Finding accommodation while preparing to hike the West Highland Way is an integral part of creating an enjoyable, stress-free trekking holiday in Scotland. No matter how long you plan to walk the West Highland Way, booking the right accommodation gives you a chance to relax and enjoy the Highlands.
From cosy inns and guesthouses to hotels and bed-and-breakfasts, walkers can find accommodation options to suit different travel styles and itineraries.
What Is the Best Accommodation for West Highland Way Walkers?
Accommodation selection depends on several factors: the chosen route, your budget, how much you plan to walk each day, and the level of luxury you desire. You can choose to stay in a hotel or a traditional inn for more comfort. There are also guesthouses and B&Bs, which provide a more intimate atmosphere.
When selecting lodging, take into account:
Location: To cut down on extra travel, stay near your intended walking stage.
Comfort: Seek out amenities that meet your needs, a cozy bed, and private bathroom options.
Meals: Find out if there are options for takeout, breakfast, and evening meals.
Transportation: If necessary, take into account having access to busses, taxis, or luggage transfer services.
During the busiest walking seasons, when accommodations along popular stretches of the route might fill up rapidly, making reservations in advance is very helpful.
Where Should You Stay Along the West Highland Way?
The West Highland Way covers approximately 96 miles (154km) from Milngavie to Fort William. As you walk the path, you’ll see a lot of variation, including towns, villages, and countryside. The route takes most people between 4 to 10 days to complete, depending on how many miles they cover per day.
You can stop in many villages overnight along the route, and several places offer West Highland Way accommodation options to suit every budget and style. Drymen, Rowardennan, Inverarnan, Tyndrum, Bridge of Orchy, and Kinlochleven are some popular stops. Most walkers choose to spend at least one night before and after the trek in or near Fort William.
There is accommodation in and near Roy Bridge which might be of interest to you if you are planning to travel further into the West Highlands. Although Roy Bridge isn’t on the official route, you’ll be able to use it as a base to see some of the local attractions and spend some more time in the area.
What Facilities Should You Look for?
The benefits of some practical facilities at the end of a long hiking day are numerous. It is always wise to double-check that your booking includes:
- Good quality accommodation, especially the bathroom.
- An on-site or nearby breakfast service.
- Easy and safe walking gear storage.
- Parking, if you are bringing your own car.
- Local transportation information and interesting things to do in the area.
You may also want to confirm check-in time and cancellation policy, as well as ensure the booking will work around your hiking schedule.
How Far in Advance Should You Book?
To book in the prime summer and popular walking months, try to book a few weeks or months out. This is even more critical when planning to walk in small towns and villages. It’s better to book well in advance as it gives you the flexibility to choose accommodation in more desirable locations.
It’s always good to build in extra time when planning walking stages, particularly when you factor in things like changing weather and unexpected rest stops. It’s important to plan realistically when booking your accommodations for each stage as well.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How many days do you need to walk the West Highland Way?
Usually, the walk will take between five to eight days. How much time you spend walking will vary based on your walking speed, fitness level, and how far you choose to walk each day. It’s also possible to take longer, allowing you more time to explore and see everything around you.
2. Is accommodation available along the West Highland Way?
It’s easy to find a place to stay while on the road, including hotels, inns, guest houses, bed and breakfasts, and even hostels in towns and cities. The further you get into the wild, the fewer choices you will have, so it is better to be safe and plan accordingly.
3. Is it necessary to book West Highland Way accommodation in advance?
Booking early is recommended, especially for the spring and summer seasons. Often the most popular places become completely booked because most people take the same walk.
4. Can I stay outside the main West Highland Way route?
If you have some flexibility in your transport and itinerary, other towns and villages have plenty of lodging options. Just make sure you double-check travel times and distances before booking your stay, to be sure your selected accommodation is in a convenient location.
