A highland glen, snow topped mountains and a ruined castle.
After a rather mild winter (rain & mud!), Rudy went in search of snow! A couple of days in Fort William in early 2020 at least gave some snow to look at on the mountains even if we didn’t get to build a snowman.
Fort William is a major tourist town for the Scottish Highlands being the start/end point for both the West Highland Way and the Great Glen long distance walking routes. With Ben Nevis (the UK’s highest mountain) nearby it’s ideal for hillwalkers but February is best for shorter walks with camera and staying close to holiday cottage fireplaces.
The Parade in Fort William Loch Linnhe from Fort William
Despite Scotland’s unpredictable weather being in full effect for our visit we still managed two afternoons exploring around Fort William town. Venturing out in the morning proved to be too chilly for much except taking photos of the clear blue sky and cold, cold frost!
Set on the shore of Loch Linnhe, Fort William has two rivers to visit for those not keen on climbing mountains. A short walk north along the Great Glen Way next to the River Lochy leads to the ruin of Old Inverlochy Castle which is free to explore. Heading the opposite direction a good circular walk with spectacular scenery of Glen Nevis can be taken to the Youth Hostel along part of the West Highland Way and returning on forest paths.
Of course you don’t have to walk to enjoy the scenery here as Fort William is the perfect base for train trips exploring the far reaches of the West Highland Line – you can arrive direct from London on the Caledonian Sleeper, or take The Jacobite Steam train to Mallaig from here but those are for different adventure stories
