Experience the Scottish Highlands on our
Walking Holidays
at Distant Hills Guest House
Scottish Highlands, Spean Bridge, near Fort William
Have you ever fancied a walking holiday in Scotland but taken a first glance at a map and not known where to start? Or perhaps you just haven’t the confidence to tackle the Scottish hills alone? Join us on one of our walking holidays and let us guide you through some of the most spectacular scenery that the Scottish Highlands has to offer. You just need to decide on which dates you’d like to book and we’ll even advise you on what to pack.
Our Walking Holidays Package
A 6 night stay in our cosy 4 star Guest House
Our walking holidays consists of a 6 night stay in our cosy 4 star Distant Hills Guest House in Spean Bridge with 4 days of guided walking in the stunning surrounding Highlands. As well as a full, hearty breakfast every morning, you will also be treated to a delicious evening meal on five of the nights. Packed lunches, afternoon tea and home baked cakes will also be included on each of the walking days.
A free day in the middle of the holiday will give you an opportunity to rest your legs and take in the local sights, attractions and restaurants at your leisure. You’ll also be able to soak in our brand new hot tub and relax any aching muscles after a great day’s hiking!
To take a look at our bedrooms and accommodation – Click here.
Our Walking Holidays in 2024
Let your love affair with the Scottish Highlands begin!
If you love hiking and you love being among nature and stunning scenery, you will love walking in the Scottish Highlands. Combine that with beautifully decorated and comfortable accommodation, wholesome and delicious meals, fabulous company and expert guides, you have the perfect walking holiday package. Take a quick look at the short video to whet your appetite.
The Walks
4 varied days of expertly guided walks showcasing the magic of the Highlands
Our carefully selected walks will aim to take you to a different area each day and will provide you with a variety of terrain and stimulation. The Lochaber region is rich in natural beauty, history and wildlife and boasts of being the Outdoor Capital of the UK. Our walks will take your senses on a trip of their own through beautiful woodland alive with all kinds of birds, animals, flora and fauna.
We’ll journey into historical glens with gurgling streams and gushing waterfalls and explore breezy coastal footpaths with views of secluded sandy beaches, ruined castles and hills stretching far into the distance, or we might squelch through the bog and bounce atop the springy heather up onto one of the many mountain peaks with breath-taking views in all directions. Our qualified guides will be with you every step of the way to eagerly impart their expert local knowledge, answer your questions and ensure you have the very best experience.
Dates & Prices for 2024 Walking Holidays
5 Walking holidays to choose from – no single supplement
Spring 2024
Sunday 31st March – Saturday 6th April – Lower Level
Sunday 31st March – Saturday 6th April – Moderate Level
Sunday 7th April – Saturday 13th April – Moderate Hill Walking
Price £865pp
A Maximum of 10 places are available on each holiday
Autumn 2024
Sun 29th Sept – Sat 5th Oct – Moderate Hill Walking
Sunday 6th Oct – Saturday 12th Oct – Hard Hill Walking
Sunday 13th Oct – Saturday 19th Oct – Moderate Hill Walking
Price £865pp
A maximum of 10 places are available on each holiday
A deposit of just £100 is required to secure your place. Each holiday requires a minimum of 8 participants before places are confirmed.
The Itineraries
Walking Holidays – Three levels to choose from – lower-level, moderate and harder
We offer three different levels of walking itinerary, a low level itinerary, a moderate one and a harder one to cater for varying levels of experience and ability. We would be very happy to discuss each walk with you in detail to help you choose the best itinerary suited to you. Please note that for all itineraries, you will be responsible for getting to and from the start of each walk which may be up to an hour away, so we strongly advise you to bring your own car.
Click on each ‘walk’ tab or ‘day’ tab to read a brief description of the walk.
Walking Itinerary
Low Level Walking
Our low-level walking itinerary is ideal for people who enjoy walking without the physical and mental challenge of climbing up or down hills. The walks are mostly on good, undulating paths or tracks; however, some boggy sections must be expected. Daily distances will vary but will generally be between 6 and 10 miles. You should expect to be out walking for 4-6 hours each day.
The walks listed in the following tabs are indicative to give you a feel for the level. We will select 4 walks tailored to the group and of course the weather conditions as well as any other unexpected factors which we may need to take into consideration at the time.
Dates & Prices
Spring 2024 (lower level) – Sunday 31st March – Saturday 6th April
Price £865pp
Walk 1
Glen Nevis and Polldubh Falls – 13km/8 miles (288m ascent)
Walking in the shadows of Ben Nevis, this low-level, circular route follows the river revealing fabulous views of the surrounding peaks and back down Glen Nevis. One of the main features of this walk are the Lower Falls at Polldubh, where you may see a brave local going for a swim! Sections of the walk are through woodland with some magnificent old deciduous trees and it ends at the Glen Nevis Visitor Centre providing some interesting information about the glen and the UK’s highest mountain, Ben Nevis.
Walk 2
This walk starts in a remote part of Glen Roy providing a real sense of escapism and tranquillity. Glen Roy is famous for the Parallel Roads which were formed during the last Ice Age. This is a truly unique route and culminates in reaching the White Falls and the lonely Luib-chonnal bothy, a perfect place for a pic-nic before retracing the route to the start point.
Walk 3
Starting in the village of Invergarry, this fine circular walk offers several interesting features along the route including two rivers, the Caledonian Canal, glimpses of the old Invergarry Castle ruins and the beautiful double cantilevered Oich Bridge. The path undulates through some beautiful woodland on the western side of Loch Oich offering a fabulous view at the highest point and follows a very flat path along the old railway line from Spean Bridge to Fort Augustus on the other side of the Loch.
Walk 4
Lochan na’ Earba is one of our hidden gems tucked away on the nearby Ardverikie Estate. This out-and-back route follows a well-defined, gently undulating track through spectacular, rugged Highland scenery, with distant peaks appearing around every corner. The destination point is the enchanting Lochan na’ Earba, where scenes from Mrs Brown, Outlander and Monarch of the Glen were filmed. The walk can be extended by following the path alongside the lochan to the second loch, before retracing the route back to the car park.
Walk 5
This delightful walk starts by taking a train from Spean Bridge to the highest train station in the UK, also featured in the 1990s film ‘Trainspotting’. Corrour Station is described as the most remote in Scotland, which certainly adds a special essence to this walk, and you may even get to spot a herd of the estate deer. This is a very low-level walk, forestry in parts, with fabulous views of the surrounding mountains, which include Ben Nevis on a clear day. Time permitting, there will be a chance for a cold refreshment or two in the Corrour Station House before taking the train back to Spean Bridge. (Train fare is not included in price.)
Walk 6
This mostly linear walk starts from Distant Hills Guest House and follows well-defined paths through Leanachan Forest to the Nevis Range Gondola station. The experience includes a ride on Britain’s only mountain gondola to the start point for further walks to two different viewpoints ‘Sgurr Finnisg-aig’ and ‘Meall Beag’. The views are incredible and include the Great Glen, Ben Nevis, Fort William, Loch Eil and Loch Linnhe. There are also options for snacks and refreshments at the top and bottom of the gondola ride. (Gondola fare is not included in price.)
Walking Itinerary
Moderate Walking
A reasonable level of fitness and some walking experience is required, preferably up and down hills on a variety of paths, tracks, moorland and some inevitable boggy sections. Daily distances will vary but will generally be a minimum of 8km, with a minimum of 400 metres of ascent, often on rough, pathless terrain. Expect to be out walking for 4-6 hours of the day.
The walks listed in the following tabs are indicative to give you a feel for the level. We will choose 4 walks tailored to the needs and wishes of the group and of course the weather conditions as well as any other unexpected factors which we may need to take into consideration at the time.
Dates & Prices
Spring 2024 (moderate) – Sunday 31st March – Saturday 6th April
Sunday 7th April – Saturday 13th April
Price £865pp
Autumn 2024 (moderate) – Sunday 29th September – Saturday 5th October
Price £865pp
Autumn 2024 (moderate) – Sunday 13th October – Saturday 19th October
Price £865pp
Walk 1
Coire Adair, Creag Meagaidh – 12km/7.5 miles (430m ascent)
A good path leads you through regenerating woodland of a wild but peaceful National Nature Reserve to a small mountain lake sheltered beneath the magnificent cliffs of Creag Meagaidh towering some 400 meters above. The Lochan a’Choire makes an excellent spot to eat our packed lunches and hopefully catch sight of a golden eagle or two often seen in these parts.
Walk 2
This stunning walk takes you through a mixture of woodland and across moorland to a deserted village and bothy on a secluded beach, a great spot for a sandwich and a flask of tea. As we eat our lunch, we’ll savour the breathtaking views of the Islands of Rum and Eigg across the water. On the return journey, you might choose to stop at Glenfinnan to visit the spot where Bonny Prince Charlie raised his Standard to mark the start of the Jacobite Uprising of 1745, as well as the infamous Glenfinnan viaduct.
Walk 3
This varied circular walk will take you deep into Glen Nevis through a wooded gorge past gushing streams, rivers and waterfalls including the impressive Steall Waterfall, which often gets a ‘wow’ as it first comes into view. Once past the Steall Waterfall, we will bear left and wind our way up into a secluded hanging valley, a superb lunch spot. From here, it’s onto the summit of Meall Cumhann, which sits in the shadows of Ben Nevis, the Carn Mor Dearg Arete and Aonach Mor. For those seeking an additional challenge, you can test your nerve on the wire bridge in the foreground of the Steall Waterfall.
Walk 4
Most people visiting Ben Nevis will follow several hundred others along the well-trodden mountain track to the summit. While our walk will not take you to the top of Ben Nevis, this much quieter path will give you a completely different experience of the mountain – an opportunity to get up close and personal with the all-imposing North Face. Starting from the North Face car park near Torlundy, we will walk through forest before following the water course up to the CIC Hut, which has played an important part in Scottish Mountaineering history. We will take some time here to admire and marvel at the sheer brutality of the North Face and hopefully catch sight of the odd rock climber tackling this ancient volcano. Depending on weather and wishes of the group, there will be an option to extend the walk to summit Meall an t-Suidhe providing additional views of Ben Nevis and across Lochaber.
Walk 5
The Silver Walk to Castle Tioram – 12.5km/7.75 miles (513m ascent)
The drive to the start of this walk passes through some of the most stunning scenery in the Highlands and leads you the tranquil area near Kinlochmoidart. This walk starts with a short, steady climb through a beautiful forest rewarding you with a stunning view over Loch Moidart before descending to and following an ancient path hugging the shoreline until Castle Tioram suddenly comes into view. Depending on the tide, you will be able to walk across the sandy beach to explore the perimeter of the castle for yourself, or take some time to simply enjoy let the sheer beauty and peacefulness of this area. A short, optional loop will lead us back onto the same shoreline path leading back to the car park.
Walk 6
The Two Lairigs in Glen Coe – 15km/9.25 miles (573m ascent)
Glen Coe is surrounded by huge imposing mountains but this fabulous lower level walk allows you to soak up the magical atmosphere of this iconic area without having to climb to the top of any peaks. Good paths will lead you along two historic passes between Glen Coe and Glen Etive, the Lairig Eilde and the Lairig Gartain, which also circumnavigate the base of Buachaille Etive Beag. You will encounter a few stream crossings on this walk and if you join us in the autumn, you will be sure to hear the red deer stags roaring their mating calls. If you’re really lucky, you’ll even get to see one or two.
Walking Itinerary
Harder Walking
Our harder walking itinerary is aimed at people who have experience of walking in the hills and mountains and are used to walking for a minimum of 8-10 hour days and are able to climb approximately 1000m on subsequent days.
You must be able to comfortably walk across a variety of terrain including sections of bog, often rough rock and steeper, pathless terrain. Some of the routes may include airy ridges with some exposure. Each of the routes will take you to a different area in the Lochaber region and could, but not always, include a number of Munro peaks.
The walks listed in the following tabs are indicative to give you a feel for the level. We will choose 4 walks tailored to the needs and wishes of the group and of course the weather conditions as well as any other unexpected factors which we may need to take into consideration at the time.
Dates & Prices
Autumn 2024 (harder) – Sunday 6th October – Saturday 12th October
Price £865pp
Walk 1
Buachaille Etive Beag – 8km/5 miles (900m ascent)
The Buachaille Etive Beag is a superb ridge walk and offers fantastic views from the two Munro summits into Glen Etive and Glen Coe. You will walk along a well constructed path for a short section of the Lairig Eilde before climbing a rocky stairway up to Mam Buide, the lowest point on the ridge. From here, the ridge will lead you right to the peak of Stob Dubh and left to Stob Coire Raineach. Weather permitting, you will be treated to excellent views of Blackwater Resevoir, the infamous Aonach Eagach ridge, and the surrounding peaks of Bidean Nam Bian, Stob Coire Sgreamhach as well as the neighbouring Buachaille Etive Mor.
Walk 2
Situated in the Creag Meagaidh Nature Reserve, this circular walk offers a little bit of everything making it a fabulous day out… a colourful woodland, a gushing river, the dark waters of Lochan Coire Ardair, the imposing Creag Meagaidh cliffs, wide open plateaus with far reaching views and the opportunity to summit 3 Munros. If you’re really lucky, you’ll catch a glimpse of a golden eagle soaring above you.
Walk 3
Walk 4
Situated deep in the heart of Glen Nevis, the mighty quartzite peak of Stob Ban is part of the Mamores mountain range and offers exceptional 360° views. A good path follows a deep ravine before zig-zagging up and onto the shattered rocky summit of Stob Ban. Following a short descent off the summit, a ridge traverse links up with the second Munro summit of the day, Mullach nan Coirean once again offering superb views, this time across Loch Linnhe and beyond. The descent will take you through the occasional boggy patch and into woodland before meeting back up at the car park making it a superb circular walk.
Walk 5
The Loch Lochy Munros – 19km/13.5 miles (1258m)
After an easy low-level start, this walk will lead you through some fabulous woodland past rivers and waterfalls and up onto the grassy hills towering above the blue waters of Loch Lochy. In the autumn, you are almost guaranteed to hear the stags roaring around you. On a clear day, the Munro summits will offer fabulous views of Ben Nevis and down Loch Linnhe and beyond as well as Loch Lochy, down the Great Glen and towards the Knoydart mountains. A pathless descent offers a circular route option to this fine walk.
How to Book
Most people have a few questions when booking a walking holiday, so to ensure you have all the information you need, we’d like you to give us a quick call on +44 (0) 1397 712452 or simply complete the ‘Contact’ form here and we’ll get back to you as quickly as possible.
We absolutely promise you, we’re super friendly and you’ll be glad you made the call. Go on, be a devil and get in touch! If you are just looking for Bed & Breakfast – Click here.
What to Bring…
For our Walking Holiday Package
The weather in the Scottish Highlands can be extreme and can change dramatically in a matter of minutes, especially in mountain environments. Rain is common and on our highest mountains it can often feel as cold as -10 degrees Celsius. This is a comprehensive kit list designed for our hardest weather to ensure that you have the appropriate clothing and equipment available to you during your stay with us. On the evening prior to a walk, our guides will advise what actually needs to be packed into your rucksack according to the weather forecasts and planned route. Please get in touch with us if you have any queries regarding this list.
Essential
- Waterproof walking boots with ankle support – conditions will often be wet underfoot, even on the sunniest of days, and can include rough, pathless terrain.
- Waterproof jacket – with a good hood. Please note, “Water Resistant” is not the same as “Waterproof” and is therefore insufficient.
- Waterproof trousers – again, “Water Resistant” is inadequate. Trousers with side zips are recommended for getting them over your boots.
- Thermal base layer top – polyester or woollen, no cotton.
- Warm mid layer top – such as fleece.
- Spare insulating layer – fleece or synthetic insulating layer.
- Walking trousers – not jeans.
- Warm hat – one that covers your ears, a beanie style works well.
- Gloves – also a spare pair of extra warm, thick gloves is highly recommended such as ones worn for skiing.
- Water bottle/food – 1 litre capacity is sufficient. Platypus style with a hose can also be useful for regular hydration. Enough food to last the day and some spare. We will provide you with a packed lunch but you may wish to bring your own additional favourite nibbles. (There is also a Spar shop in the village open 7 days a week.)
- Rucksack – large enough to carry everything on this list. Around 25 litres should be sufficient. Also recommended is a poly bin bag to use as a liner as rucksacks are not waterproof.
- Mobile phone – in a waterproof case.
Highly Recommended
- Sun hat, sun cream, sunglasses – despite the myths, the sun does shine in Scotland and you can quickly suffer the consequences if you’re not protected.
- Walking poles – they can take a huge amount of strain off the lower body over the course of a day.
- Midge repellent – we recommend “Smidge.” You are less likely to encounter midges in March and October but it is better to be sfae than sorry.
- Thermos flask – with whatever hot beverage you please. This can work wonders on a cold, wet day!
- Small First Aid Kit – with blister pads and any personal medication.
- Camera
- Gaiters – for additional water protection, no boot is waterproof if water gets in the top!
- Swimwear for the hot tub!
Distant Hills Walking Holiday
Meet the Team
Dave Lamond
Dani MacKinnon
Cameron MacKinnon
Hannah Francis
Reviews from our Walking Holidays
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