Caledonian Canal Walk
Take the high road to the Highlands of Scotland and a place where eagles dare.
Beneath Ben Nevis – at 4,490-feet Britain’s highest mountain – the route covers the first 8 miles of the old Caledonian Canal, from Corpach sea loch to the shores of the first freshwater loch at Gairlochy.
The 60-mile coast to coast waterway was built by Thomas Telford to eliminate the need for long, hazardous sea journeys around the far north of Scotland – but nowadays is a major tourist attraction visited annually by half a million people.
Along the way you will encounter one of Telford’s greatest achievements, Neptune’s Staircase, which raises the canal by 64-feet along a quarter mile section.
Other highlights include the Shengain Aqueduct and the only swing bridge on the whole canal. At the end of the walk the lighthouse at Loch Lochy provides stunning views across the surrounding mountains.
Julia’s verdict: A truly mac-nificent walk!
Nearest Train (or tube) Station(s):
Corpach, Banavie, Fort William