Scottish Coast to Coast Walk
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Luggage transfer
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Hotel accommodations
Explore the central part of the Scottish Highlands on a tour of medieval ruins, river-crossed villages and mountain-protected lakes, from the ancient capital, Perth's "Fair City" on the banks of the River Tay— Scotland's longest — to the UK's outdoor activity capital, Fort William.
This coast-to-coast adventure will take you through the lush forests of Dunkeld Hermitage to the town of Aberfeldy. Walk among oaks, ash trees and elms to the village of Kenmore, at the northern end of Loch Tay.
Cross the heart of Perth between waterfalls and mountains to the village of Kinloch Rannoch, on the edge of Loch Rannoch. Before you arrive in Fort William, discover Rannoch train station on the West Highland Line, the most remote railway station in the British Isles that crosses through Rannoch Moor.
- Visit when in Perth Scone Palace, the coronation place for Scottish kings.
- Explore Crannog, an artificial island of wooden houses built 2,500 years ago.
- Visit Dewar's Aberfeldy Distillery and try the famous single malt malt whisky.
- Discover the Jacobite steam train, the Hogwarts Express in the Harry Potter saga.
- Admire the Birnam Oak, a surviving tree of the now extinct Birnam Forest.
- Climb Ben Nevis, the UK's highest mountain located in Fort William.
Itinerary
Day 1 - Arrival in Perth
Discover what was Scotland's former capital for 5 centuries, the "Fair City" of Perth, which during the Middle Ages was called St. Johnstone, and which today is the newest city in the country.
Explore this bustling weekend market town, located between 2 public parks, its medieval towers, Georgian houses and cobblestoned streets, while enjoying the historic atmosphere and typical ornate 3-course meals.
Explore this bustling weekend market town, located between 2 public parks, its medieval towers, Georgian houses and cobblestoned streets, while enjoying the historic atmosphere and typical ornate 3-course meals.
Overnight in Perth
Hazeldene Guest House
Hazeldene Guest House offers a first-class accommodation experience characterized by personalized and friendly service in a distinguished Victorian villa, ensuring that your stay is not only enjoyable but also unforgettable!
The accommodation is located on A94 and is just a 10-minute walk from the center of Perth, as well as local attractions and many excellent restaurants.
*In case this accommodation is not available, you will stay at a similar category one.
The accommodation is located on A94 and is just a 10-minute walk from the center of Perth, as well as local attractions and many excellent restaurants.
*In case this accommodation is not available, you will stay at a similar category one.
Day 2 - Perth to Bankfoot 13 miles | 21 km
Start the walk by heading from the centre of Perth to the north, along a path that passes under the city bridge, on the banks of the River Tay. Walk uphill along the River Tay, listed as Scotland's most famous salmon fishing spot, and take a tour to the edge of the forest, crossing several bridges to reach River Almond.
Cross the marked paths and stone houses to get back to the River Tay, to the Taypark road, where a path full of rabbit burrows leads to the main road of the village of Luncarty.
Walk just 12 minutes to the village of Bankfoot, with no more than 2,000 inhabitants and only 2 authorized locations: the Bankfoot Inn and the Atholl Inn.
Cross the marked paths and stone houses to get back to the River Tay, to the Taypark road, where a path full of rabbit burrows leads to the main road of the village of Luncarty.
Walk just 12 minutes to the village of Bankfoot, with no more than 2,000 inhabitants and only 2 authorized locations: the Bankfoot Inn and the Atholl Inn.
Overnight in Bankfoot
Bankfoot Inn
This family-run accommodation is located in a charming 18th-century Scottish house, in a beautiful setting for cycling, hiking, and salmon fishing.
It features a restaurant serving fresh, homemade food and two bars where you can sample single malt whiskies or craft beers while, if you're lucky, enjoying some live music.
*In case this accommodation is not available, you will stay at a similar category one.
It features a restaurant serving fresh, homemade food and two bars where you can sample single malt whiskies or craft beers while, if you're lucky, enjoying some live music.
*In case this accommodation is not available, you will stay at a similar category one.
Day 3 - Bankfoot to Dunkeld 9,5 miles | 16 km
Start at the southern end of Bankfoot heading north on the Cairneyhill road. Cross the Gellyburn Forest Trail through agricultural fields to Kingswood. Head west to the Rohallion Woods Forest Trail as you admire and traverse its loch.
Descend from Birnam Hill and roll it along a rocky path to leafy Birnam Glen. Cross a pedestrian bridge and forest where you'll find your way to the magical forests of Dunkeld Hermitage, a natural paradise toured by Queen Victoria, composer Mendelssohn and painter William Turner.
Cross the River Braan over a stone bridge to Ossians Hall and admire the views as you climb up to Rumbling Bridge. Venture up to the moor where Glen Garr and a beautiful glen await you, before descending to Dunkeld.
Descend from Birnam Hill and roll it along a rocky path to leafy Birnam Glen. Cross a pedestrian bridge and forest where you'll find your way to the magical forests of Dunkeld Hermitage, a natural paradise toured by Queen Victoria, composer Mendelssohn and painter William Turner.
Cross the River Braan over a stone bridge to Ossians Hall and admire the views as you climb up to Rumbling Bridge. Venture up to the moor where Glen Garr and a beautiful glen await you, before descending to Dunkeld.
Overnight in Dunkeld
Tayburn House
Tayburn House, located just a 15-minute walk from the center of Dunkeld, offers comfortable rooms and hearty breakfasts.
It features free parking and Wi-Fi throughout the property. Immerse yourself in the hospitality and charm of this cozy accommodation!
*In case this accommodation is not available, you will stay at a similar category one.
It features free parking and Wi-Fi throughout the property. Immerse yourself in the hospitality and charm of this cozy accommodation!
*In case this accommodation is not available, you will stay at a similar category one.
Day 4 - Dunkeld to Aberfeldy 19 miles | 31 km
Today's destination is the small village of Aberfeldy, home to the famous birch forests in Birks of Aberfeldy, the Dewar Distillery and the Aberfeldy Watermill, a bookstore, cafe and gallery set in a former protected water mill.
Head southwest and cross Dunkeld Bridge to the junction of the old military road with the A9. Take in the landscape of Craigvinean Forest and, if you wish, head to Pinecone Viewpoint, located inside Tay Forest Park to admire the views.
Head southwest and cross Dunkeld Bridge to the junction of the old military road with the A9. Take in the landscape of Craigvinean Forest and, if you wish, head to Pinecone Viewpoint, located inside Tay Forest Park to admire the views.
Overnight in Aberfeldy
Balnearn House
This cozy family-run Bed & Breakfast is nestled in the beautiful Tay Valley, amidst some of Scotland's most stunning landscapes, in the heart of Highland Perthshire, surrounded by its own garden.
The rooms are equipped with flat-screen TVs, WiFi, garden views, and tea and coffee facilities.
*In case this accommodation is not available, you will stay at a similar category one.
The rooms are equipped with flat-screen TVs, WiFi, garden views, and tea and coffee facilities.
*In case this accommodation is not available, you will stay at a similar category one.
Day 5 - Aberfeldy to Fortningall 13 miles | 21 km
Head west along the Crieff Road to Aberfeldy Birks, originally called the Moness Den, located above the Moness Falls and designated as a Site of Special Scientific Interest for its botanical features.
You will reach the northern end of Loch Tay to its mouth, in the village of Kenmore. Visit Scotland's oldest, the prehistoric Croft Moraig stone circle, or the country's heritage centre in Crannog. Walk to the Tay Forest Park, believed to be Scotland's first managed forest, and admire the views of Taymouth Castle.
It descends to Fortingall, the home of the “Fortingall Yew”, a tree with an age of approximately 5,000 years and considered the oldest living being on earth. Visit the grounds of the parish church where a primitive Christian site dedicated to the Bishop of Iona is located.
You will reach the northern end of Loch Tay to its mouth, in the village of Kenmore. Visit Scotland's oldest, the prehistoric Croft Moraig stone circle, or the country's heritage centre in Crannog. Walk to the Tay Forest Park, believed to be Scotland's first managed forest, and admire the views of Taymouth Castle.
It descends to Fortingall, the home of the “Fortingall Yew”, a tree with an age of approximately 5,000 years and considered the oldest living being on earth. Visit the grounds of the parish church where a primitive Christian site dedicated to the Bishop of Iona is located.
Overnight in Fortingall
Fortingall Hotel
The Fortingall Hotel is located at the entrance of the mystical Glen Lyon and a short distance from the beautiful Loch Tay, both gems in the heart of Highland Perthshire.
With luxury rooms and a restaurant that utilizes local seasonal produce.
*In case this accommodation is not available, you will stay at a similar category one.
With luxury rooms and a restaurant that utilizes local seasonal produce.
*In case this accommodation is not available, you will stay at a similar category one.
Day 6 - Fortingall to Kinloch Rannoch 11 miles | 18 km
Walk to the Schiehallion, a magnificent cone-shaped mountain that dominates the glen, known as one of the easiest Scottish “munros” or mountains to climb. Climb the path that leads you to the glen surrounded by heather, to the road by the River Tummel.
From the top of the Schiehallion, admire the views of Rannoch Moor and the peaks of Glen Coe. If you choose, walk north to Uamh Tom Natural Cave to Mhor fhir, about 4 m long.
Descend down a stony path to the Victorian village of Kinloch Rannoch or "end of the loch", at the eastern end of Loch Rannoch, a paradise of wildlife, migratory birds, ospreys and red squirrels.
From the top of the Schiehallion, admire the views of Rannoch Moor and the peaks of Glen Coe. If you choose, walk north to Uamh Tom Natural Cave to Mhor fhir, about 4 m long.
Descend down a stony path to the Victorian village of Kinloch Rannoch or "end of the loch", at the eastern end of Loch Rannoch, a paradise of wildlife, migratory birds, ospreys and red squirrels.
Overnight in Kinloch Rannoch
Loch Rannoch Hotel and Estate
This magnificent resort, meticulously renovated, is renowned for its outdoor activities and adventures in a fresh and invigorating setting of spectacular scenic beauty. The resort offers an outstanding variety of recreational activities, including an indoor swimming pool, sauna, steam room, and spa treatments.
*In case this accommodation is not available, you will stay at a similar category one.
*In case this accommodation is not available, you will stay at a similar category one.
Day 7 - Kinloch Rannoch to Rannoch 17 miles | 28 km
Head to Rannoch station, one of Britain's most remote train stations, located 47 kilometres west of Kinloch Rannoch. Take the route south that borders all of Loch Rannoch while enjoying views of the open moors, lakes and solitary forests.
Take the road alongside the River Gaur, which circles the northern side of the Loch Eigheach Gaur Reservoir, and climbs up to the world-famous Rannoch station, where a lovely train travels from Glasgow to Mallaig through majestic moorland, hills and over viaducts.
Take the road alongside the River Gaur, which circles the northern side of the Loch Eigheach Gaur Reservoir, and climbs up to the world-famous Rannoch station, where a lovely train travels from Glasgow to Mallaig through majestic moorland, hills and over viaducts.
Overnight in Rannoch
Hotel Moor of Rannoch
In an environment devoid of televisions, radios, or WiFi, The Moor of Rannoch emerges as the perfect antidote to the fast-paced modern world. Surrounded by 130 km of uninhabited moorland, it is the ideal place to escape, retreat, relax, and disconnect. Immerse yourself in a unique experience!
*In case this accommodation is not available, you will stay at a similar category one.
*In case this accommodation is not available, you will stay at a similar category one.
Day 8 - Rannoch to Kingshouse 12 miles | 20 km
Cross the extensive mountain moors of Rannoch Moor, an outdoor space to the north and west of Rannoch station. Tour one of Scotland's last moors, designated as a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) and special conservation area.
Walk among rocky and swampy trails, through the lochs and wildlife environment in this wasteland with lots of plants, insects, birds and animals such as grouse, roebuck and deer.
If you like film and television, you should know that in this beautiful place were filmed some scenes from the series Outlander and Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows: part 1.
Glencoe or Ballachulish: in case there is no availability at Kingshouse, you will be hosted at one of these locations. We will arrange for you to have the necessary transfers between locations.
Walk among rocky and swampy trails, through the lochs and wildlife environment in this wasteland with lots of plants, insects, birds and animals such as grouse, roebuck and deer.
If you like film and television, you should know that in this beautiful place were filmed some scenes from the series Outlander and Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows: part 1.
Glencoe or Ballachulish: in case there is no availability at Kingshouse, you will be hosted at one of these locations. We will arrange for you to have the necessary transfers between locations.
Overnight in Kingshouse
Kingshouse Hotel
Experience the perfect blend of historic charm and modern comforts at Kingshouse Hotel. Surrounded by stunning natural landscapes, this cozy retreat offers a unique getaway with comfortable rooms, a warm atmosphere, and welcoming staff. Enjoy outdoor activities and explore scenic routes amidst the majesty of nature.
*In case this accommodation is not available, you will stay at a similar category one.
*In case this accommodation is not available, you will stay at a similar category one.
Day 9 - Kingshouse to Kinlochleven 9 miles | 15 km
After passing Kingshouse, the most bucolic section of the West Highland Way long-distance trail begins: cross the stone bridge over the River Etive as you admire Buachaille Etive Mor. Walk the old Wade military route and follow the glen to Altnafeadh.
Climb the 'Devil's Staircase', a quiet and winding path. At the summit, 550 m away, take in the views of the Glencoe Mountains and Blackwater Reservoir, the longest dam in the Highlands (1 km).
Admire the peaks of Mamores and Ben Nevis, Britain's highest mountain and descend a bridge over Allt a' Choire Odhair Mhoir. Take the route to a bridge over the River Leven to reach Kinlochleven.
Glencoe or Ballachulish: in case there is no availability at Kinlochleven, you will be hosted at one of these locations. We will arrange for you to have the necessary transfers between locations.
Climb the 'Devil's Staircase', a quiet and winding path. At the summit, 550 m away, take in the views of the Glencoe Mountains and Blackwater Reservoir, the longest dam in the Highlands (1 km).
Admire the peaks of Mamores and Ben Nevis, Britain's highest mountain and descend a bridge over Allt a' Choire Odhair Mhoir. Take the route to a bridge over the River Leven to reach Kinlochleven.
Glencoe or Ballachulish: in case there is no availability at Kinlochleven, you will be hosted at one of these locations. We will arrange for you to have the necessary transfers between locations.
Overnight in Kinlochleven
Allt Na Leven
It offers en-suite rooms with satellite TV and free Wi-Fi throughout. It has a restaurant where you can enjoy typical local food.
Also, do not miss the privileged views of the mountains, given its excellent location.
*In case this accommodation is not available, you will stay at a similar category one.
Also, do not miss the privileged views of the mountains, given its excellent location.
*In case this accommodation is not available, you will stay at a similar category one.
Day 10 - Kinlochleven to Fort William 15 miles | 24 km
Head from the bridge over the River Leven to the north on the Lochaber road and deviate a little to Grey Mare Waterfall, part of a nature reserve, before continuing and admiring the views of the Mamore Mountains.
Climb up through a birch forest to the Kinlochleven and Loch Leven viewpoint and take the ancient military route to Fort William. Admire the conical mountain of Beinn na Caillich and walk to an optional detour to the top of Dun Deardail, an Iron Age fort and viewpoint.
Descend to the Ben Nevis Visitor Centre on the outskirts of Fort William, to begin, if you wish, the mountain ascent. Cross the town to the end on the pedestrian High Street, the final section and official end of the route on the West Highland Way.
Climb up through a birch forest to the Kinlochleven and Loch Leven viewpoint and take the ancient military route to Fort William. Admire the conical mountain of Beinn na Caillich and walk to an optional detour to the top of Dun Deardail, an Iron Age fort and viewpoint.
Descend to the Ben Nevis Visitor Centre on the outskirts of Fort William, to begin, if you wish, the mountain ascent. Cross the town to the end on the pedestrian High Street, the final section and official end of the route on the West Highland Way.
Overnight in Fort William
Myrtle Bank Guest House
This attractive 1890s Victorian villa is located by Loch Linnhe on the southern side of Fort William. Myrtle Bank Guest House offers a garden and terrace where guests can relax at the end of their walks. Enjoy cosy rooms with Wi-Fi, traditional decor and a private bathroom.
*In case this accommodation is not available, you will stay at a similar category one.
*In case this accommodation is not available, you will stay at a similar category one.
Day 11 - Fort William
For the return from Fort William, you can take a bus or train to Glasgow. Another option, depending on your next destination, is Oban Airport, just 60 km from Fort William.
End of our services.
End of our services.
Itinerary map
Services
Included
- Accommodation in en suite rooms in charming hotels
- Daily Breakfasts
- Luggage transfers between accommodations
- Information dossier with maps and routes
- 24-hour telephone support
- Sustainable travel, we compensate the CO2 emissions of your trip
- Taxes
Extras
- Travel insurance
- Cancellation insurance
- Additional nights
Accomodation
General information
The accommodations with which we collaborate have a private bathroom and all the necessary services to ensure the best comfort available.
Our team checks in situ the quality of all the accommodations offered, so that you have an unforgettable experience during your trip.
The accommodation that we will book for your trip will be selected taking into account our commitment to you: guaranteeing comfort, calm and enjoyment throughout your trip.
We work with quality hotels and country cottages with limited capacity, so we invite you to confirm your reservation as soon as possible.
The name of each accommodation will be provided to you a few weeks before your trip begins.
Room types
It is possible to book this journey in single, double or triple rooms.
All rooms have private bathrooms.
Travel & transfers
To get to Perth, you can fly into Edimburgh Airport or Glasgow Airport, as both have very good public transport connections.
From Edimburgh Airport (Stop G), you can take a direct bus to Perth, operated by "Megabus".
From Glasgow Airport, you will need to take the "Airport Express" bus, operated by "First Bus", to Dundas Street. Once in the city centre, you can take the "Scotrail" train to Perth.
At the end of your journey in Fort William, you can always take the 914, 915 and 916 buses, operated by "Citylink", or the train to Glasgow Queen Street, operated by "Scotrail".
From Edimburgh Airport (Stop G), you can take a direct bus to Perth, operated by "Megabus".
From Glasgow Airport, you will need to take the "Airport Express" bus, operated by "First Bus", to Dundas Street. Once in the city centre, you can take the "Scotrail" train to Perth.
At the end of your journey in Fort William, you can always take the 914, 915 and 916 buses, operated by "Citylink", or the train to Glasgow Queen Street, operated by "Scotrail".
FAQs
Is luggage transfer included? What are the luggage requirements?
Absolutely! Each traveller has included 1 piece of luggage that we will transfer between your accommodations. It's important that this piece of luggage meets the following criterias:
- Maximum weight of 40 lbs (18 kg).
- Must be only 1 piece of luggage without any attachments or accessories.
- Should not contain valuables, fragile items, food or medications.
- Must be correctly identified (booking reference of your trip and the full name of the trip holder).
What is the best time of year to do this route?
The route is available between April and October, so any time you choose between these months will give you an amazing experience, as the weather is pleasant and cool for walking.
Even in summer, when it is usually very hot in several countries, in Scotland you will enjoy some very pleasant days to explore the various natural landscapes that this adventure has for you. Keep in mind that during summer months, mosquitoes (midges) appear on the route, so we suggest wearing repellent.
How far in advance should I book my trip?
We recommend that you book as soon as you are sure about your dates, as accommodation can fill up very quickly in this area.
What should my physical preparation be?
This route is rated with a medium-high difficulty level, with some demanding ascents and descents, especially in the most remote stretches. The walks can be up to 28 km and 8 hours daily, approximately.
Therefore, we propose several itineraries with different levels of intensity and we recommend you have walking experience, in the handling of navigation instruments (maps and compasses) and follow an active lifestyle.
If not, you can prepare some months before starting the route by walking daily on mountainous terrain. You can also improve your endurance with cardio exercise.
What equipment do I need to bring?
Once you make your reservation we will send you all the detailed information about the specific equipment you need for this route, considering recommendations for shoes, boots, clothes and a day-to day backpack.
What if I'm not able to finish one of the stages?
You can call us to arrange a private transfer for you.
If you prefer, you can also use public transport or local taxis to get to your next accommodation.
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