Scotland Trip May 2027
Frequently Asked Questions
Why are you doing this?
In short, I love travel, planning travel, and sharing travel, and I understand that some people find travel planning challenging and/or want to travel with others. And, of course, it’s SCOTLAND! The 2024 and 2025 trips were absolutely incredible and an amazing experience for the eight travelers who walked the way together. I can’t wait to return!
Is this trip for me?
Fitness Level: The West Highland Way is a moderate-level trail, covering 96 miles (154 km) over 8 days. While there are no extreme climbs, it requires a reasonable level of fitness to walk an average of 12-16 miles per day. If you're comfortable with regular walks or hikes, you should be able to manage the trail with proper preparation.
Hiking Experience: While prior hiking experience is not essential, some familiarity with walking on uneven terrain and carrying a backpack is beneficial. If you're a novice hiker, training beforehand will help build endurance and get accustomed to hiking gear.
Enjoyment of the Outdoors: The West Highland Way offers a rich immersion in nature, with diverse landscapes ranging from serene lochs to rugged mountains. If you appreciate spending time outdoors, relish fresh air, and find beauty in natural surroundings, this trip will likely resonate with you.
Sense of Adventure: The West Highland Way is an adventure that calls for a spirit of exploration and a willingness to embrace the challenges of a multi-day hike. If you're eager to step out of your comfort zone, discover new places, and challenge yourself physically, this trip could be an enriching experience.
Appreciation for Scottish Culture: The West Highland Way provides a glimpse into Scottish heritage and culture, with charming villages, historic sites, and opportunities to interact with locals. If you're intrigued by Scottish traditions and enjoy cultural immersion, this trip should be a delightful journey.
Desire for Camaraderie: A group trip offers a unique opportunity to bond with fellow travelers, share experiences, and create lasting memories. If you enjoy socializing and connecting with others, this trip will provide a fulfilling group dynamic.
If you find yourself nodding along to these factors, then the West Highland Way group trip could be an excellent fit for you. It's a chance to immerse yourself in the beauty of the Scottish Highlands, challenge your physical limits, and forge new connections with like-minded adventurers. I invite you to embrace the spirit of exploration and embark on a journey that will leave an incredible lasting impression!
Why should I travel with this group?
Forget impersonal, organized group travel. This is a unique, small-group, personalized travel experience. Travel with a diverse but similarly-minded group of people together on this once-in-a-lifetime journey!
How much will it cost?
Total cost for all 10 days is $TBD (see below for what is included/excluded). We’re doing everything we can to maximize the experience while keeping costs as low as possible.
What’s included?
1-night stay in 4-star accommodations in Glasgow at the start of the trip
Transportation from hotel in Glasgow to trail start in Milngavie
Charming bed and Breakfast or small hotel accommodations for each walk stop/stage including the last night in Fort William
Full Scottish or continental breakfast at all stages
Baggage transfer from stage to stage (one bag per person); you only carry a day pack while walking
Fully guided trip by an experienced hiker and guide
West Highland Way Maps & Rucksack Readers Guides (one item per every 2 guests)
Comprehensive tour pack with full information on walk including location details for accommodations and local facilities (shared)
What’s not included?
Airfare to and from Scotland at the start and end of trip
Evening meals, packed lunches and drinks (available at all stages)
Food / meals not listed as included above
Travel Insurance. More details below
Personal hiking equipment /gear
How large will the group be?
In order to maximize the experience, I have limited the maximum group size to 8 people (including myself).
Do I need to be in good shape? How difficult is the walking/hiking?
You should be in reasonably good shape prior to starting this trip. During the trekking experience, we will be hiking on average 5-7 hours (not including stops) a day over varied terrain. The West Highland Way is considered a moderate-level trail, suitable for hikers with a reasonable level of fitness. The trail is well-maintained and easy to follow, and there are plenty of opportunities to rest and refuel along the way. Jogging, biking, swimming, yoga, or whatever your favorite exercises are great to keep up (or start) well before the trip (at least 3-4 weeks prior). If you have any concerns related to your health and ability to complete this experience, please consult your physician.
What kind of pace will the hike/walk be?
We’ll tailor the pace each day based on everyone’s abilities, how much walking we need to accomplish, start time, weather conditions, and breaks. Please don’t be afraid to speak up if you think we need to slow down or take a break. We’ll do our best to accommodate everyone and ensure the pace we walk is enjoyable.
I am a fast hiker/walker. What if I want to go faster than the group?
In many cases, this won’t be a problem, but we can assess as we go along. Those that want to walk ahead usually can as long as we agree at a suitable meeting point along the trail.
What if I am slower than the rest of the group?
Don’t worry, we can accommodate that too!
Speaking of start times, when will start each day?
Again, we’ll consider a variety of factors each day, similar to above. More than likely, we will start early to mid-morning each day to allow for a sufficient number of breaks and any weather that may slow us down. It’s better to arrive at our next stop early than late (and possibly in the dark!). I’ll have a better feel for each day’s start time after our first day of walking to see how we move as a group.
Is this a luxury tour?
This is not a luxury tour, at least in the traditional sense. The luxuries will come in the form of the very unique experiences we’ll have on this journey. Most of the accommodations are 3-star level or above.
What are sleeping accommodations like?
We will be staying in a 4 star hotel in Glasgow. For the walking experience, we will be staying in bed and breakfasts or small hotels in the villages along the way. Except in rare exceptions or unless previously requested/coordinated, all rooms are double occupancy (either a queen/double bed or two twins), but we may be able to make single occupancy arrangements in advance and with an upcharge (at cost). You can share your room with your traveling companion or another member of the group (if traveling solo).
What if I want my own room?
Please coordinate this in advance, and we will do our best to accommodate. There would be a single supplement upcharge of $650 depending on availability.
Why aren’t we camping instead of staying in bed and breakfasts and small hotels?
Camping along the West Highland Way is another great way to experience the trail. That said, it creates a series of logistical challenges, especially when planning even small group travel and is arguably much less comfortable than staying in places with a proper roof over our heads. Further, the amount of gear needed (and that one must carry while walking) goes up significantly. Lastly, since part of the experience of the walk is exploring the villages along the way, staying inside those villages only adds to the experience!
What do I need to bring?
I’ll provide a more detailed list later, but here are some items you will likely need to bring (keep in mind that the weather may vary wildly from warm sunny periods to cold and rain):
Hiking shorts, trekking pants, lightweight underwear, t-shirts (ideally quick drying), thermal underwear (optional), light waterproof jacket and/or Gore-Tex jacket, fleece jacket or pullover, down jacket/coat liner, gloves, hat, daypack, electricity adapters (UK), e-book reader, glasses and sunglasses, medications for the whole trip, toiletries, quick-drying towel (in case you take a dip in the loch!), soap, wet wipes, hand sanitizer, water purification tablets or water filter device (as a backup and optional), refillable water bottles and/or bladder (bladder with straw is best), hat (warm and sun), sunscreen, lip balm, trekking poles (optional depending on preference), headlamp, portable device charger/battery, good hiking boots or hiking shoes, hiking socks (preferably not cotton), lighter shoes/sandals to wear post hike on trek, sweatpants/joggers, tennis/walking shoes
Should I wear hiking boots or trail shoes?
The choice is really up to you and your previous experience. Hiking boots can be heavier and arguably more cumbersome, but they also provide ankle support where trail shoes do not. My recommendation is for hiking boots (ideally with some degree of water protection), but if you have done long walks/hikes in trail shoes and prefer those, please follow your gut.
Do I need trekking poles?
Again, the choice is really up to you. I personally have mixed feelings about them. People who carry two and walk with them on regular/flat terrain tend to walk more slowly than those without. However, there are times on steep or unstable terrain that they can be helpful. My personal preference is to (sometimes) carry one and only use it when necessary. If you’re in doubt, I recommend you bring them. You can always store them if/when you don’t need them.
What are the elevations gains like? Are they difficult?
The West Highland Way's elevation profile is characterized by a series of gradual ascents and descents, interspersed with a few more challenging climbs. Overall, the trail gains a cumulative total of 3,155 meters (10,351 feet) over its 154-kilometer (96-mile) length.
While there are no extreme elevation gains, the cumulative effect of the ups and downs can be felt, especially for those carrying a backpack. The most notable climbs include:
Conic Hill: This 361-meter (1,184-foot) hill offers stunning views of Loch Lomond and the surrounding mountains.
The Devil's Staircase: This steep ascent near Kinlochleven is the highest point on the trail, reaching 550 meters (1,800 feet).
Despite these challenges, the West Highland Way is considered a moderate-level trail, suitable for hikers with a reasonable level of fitness. The trail is well-maintained and easy to follow, and there are plenty of opportunities to rest and refuel along the way.
Here's a breakdown of the elevation gains for each section of the West Highland Way:
Milngavie to Drymen: 354 meters (1,161 feet)
Drymen to Rowardennan: 546 meters (1,791 feet), if climbing Conic Hill, much less if not
Rowardennan to Inverarnan: 354 meters (1,161 feet)
Inverarnan to Tyndrum: 503 meters (1,650 feet)
Tyndrum to Inveroran: 330 meters (1,080 feet)
Inveroran to Kingshouse: 360 meters (1,180 feet)
Kingshouse to Kinlochleven: 548 meters (1,798 feet)
Kinlochleven to Fort William: 385 meters (1,263 feet)
What’s the weather going to be like?
Early May on the West Highland Way brings a taste of spring to the Scottish Highlands, with temperatures starting to rise and days becoming longer. Expect average daytime highs around 10-15°C (50-59°F), with cooler nights dipping to 5-10°C (41-50°F). In our last two walks, the temperatures were a bit warmer than these averages. Rainfall is definitely still a possibility, so pack waterproof gear and layers for changing conditions. Overall, May offers a pleasant balance of milder temperatures, making it a favorable time to embark on this scenic trail.
If it’s raining, will we still walk?
Yes! There is a good chance we will have some rain at some point during the walk. Waterproof gear is essential. If the weather is very bad or dangerous, we will find shelter (if available) and wait for it to clear. While the weather has been very favorable during the last two walks, it’s important to hope for the best but be prepared for the worst!
What are midges?
Midges in Scotland, also known as "no-see-ums" or "biting gnats," are tiny, flying insects that can be a nuisance to hikers and other outdoor enthusiasts. They are especially active in the Highlands and other rural areas.
Midges can be active in Scotland during any time of year, but they are most common during the summer months, from May to September. The exact timing of the midge season can vary depending on the weather conditions, but they are generally most active in warm, humid weather.
In May, the midge season in Scotland is just getting started. The temperatures are still relatively cool, and the midges are not as active as they will be later in the summer. However, it is still important to be aware of midges and to take precautions to protect yourself from their bites.
There are a number of things you can do to protect yourself from midges when hiking in Scotland:
Wear long sleeves and pants. This will help to create a physical barrier between your skin and the midges.
Use insect repellent. Choose an insect repellent that contains DEET or picaridin. These ingredients are effective in repelling midges.
Cover your head and neck. A hat and scarf can help to protect your head and neck from midge bites.
Avoid hiking at dawn and dusk. Midges are most active during these times of day.
Bring a midge net. A midge net is a fine mesh net that can be draped over your head and shoulders to protect you from midge bites.
How much do I need to put as a deposit to hold my space? When is the balance due?
We kindly ask that you pay a $500 deposit to secure your space on the trip. It is fully refundable up to 1 Dec. The balance is due 1 Feb and is non-refundable. Trip insurance can help cover any unforeseen obstacles to travel.
Do I need insurance?
Although not mandatory, it is HIGHLY recommended in the event you need to cancel or alter your travel plans. It is also helpful in the extremely unlikely event you need medical care or evacuation while you are traveling. There are many options available out there. I recommend World Nomads; however feel free to chose whomever you like.
What time should I arrive into Glasgow on the first day?
The choice is yours; however please keep in mind that we will have an early start the next morning. We will also have a welcome dinner for the group that first night around 7:00 pm. You are welcome to arrive as early as you like if you want to explore Glasgow. I can help you make hotel arrangements if arriving before the start of the group trip.
What if I want to stay longer and see other things?
That’s an EXCELLENT idea if you are able. There is so much to see and do in Scotland and the rest of the UK!
I have dietary restrictions, can you accommodate them?
We will do our best to accommodate, but please communicate any restrictions or concerns prior to booking.
How do I reserve a spot???
Just let me know! Once you share all of your pertinent details and pay the $500 refundable (up to 1 Dec), you’re in!!
Anything else I should know?
Here are some additional pointers to make sure you get the most of this experience:
Expect the unexpected. Although this trip is fairly structured, this is adventure travel
As mentioned above, try to be more of a traveler and less of a tourist
Always seek the beauty and fun of an experience and people. There’s charm everywhere
Try everything you can (be openminded) and be open to pushing your boundaries
Breathe deeply and fully
Pack some patience and a lot of kindness