Thank you for watching our West Highland Way adventure! Would you do it? A long one today, so definitely recommend getting comfy with a cuppa for this one 🫖 For those dipping in to get a feel for a West Highland Way itinerary, here are the chapter markers for your convenience: 0:00 West Highland Way Introduction 0:43 Milngavie - Balmaha 2:51 Balmaha - Inversnaid 4:14 Inversnaid - Crianlarich 10:23 Crianlarich - Bridge of Orchy 14:22 Bridge of Orchy - Kings House 17:07 Kings House - Kinlochleven 22:12 Kinglochleven - Fort William 27:17 West Highland Way Recovery If you're planning on doing it and have any questions about the route, where we stayed etc. please don't hesitate to ask in the comments down below 😊
That feeling, I hated for years, only as I became older and worked through years of trauma, was I able to feel my emotions fully. Thanks for this video.
What a beautiful video and your words about the feeling you had on your last day really moved me as I do know what you meant. Congratulations on completing this trail. I am looking forward to hopefully doing this myself soon. Take care.
Thank you so much Margaret, welcome to the channel :) I'm really glad I'm not the only one who has had this experience - it's wonderful to me that even in adulthood it is possible (with the right circumstances) to rediscover childlike wonder. And that's wonderful, I hope you have a lovely time! 🤗
Dear Kat, I found your channel about a month ago and I absolutely love it❤ I watched every video and when I need to calm down, I often rewatch them. I am in love with Scotland and it's unique talents since childhood (thanks to Sir Walter Scott, Robert Burns, R.L. Stevenson and others). But only this May I was able to see this beautiful country with my own eyes. What a nature, what breathtaking landscapes, what a sense of freedom! Now, I dream of walking the WHW myself too, one day. 😊 Wishing you a happy and content life, and for the channel to grow further. Thank you for your creativity and this island of calm. 💐
So humbled by your comment🙏🏼 Where are you from? It sounds like you read more Scottish literature than the average Scot! Thank you for your passion and enthusiasm for Scotland, I'm so glad you managed to come and visit. And thank you also for your encouragement, it means a lot 💛
I am from Bulgaria (I live here for now), otherwise I'm half Russian and half Bulgarian. Had the chance to live in Russia for a bit, and also Kazakhstan for several years. So when you were talking about the difficulties of being relocated, it seems I can relate, too 🙂 Thank you for your channel, it really helps to unwind and calm down 💐
Wowsers, Kat, you did it in wintry conditions! Bravo. Your vid brought back memories that are still fresh, having done it only last month. I decided on 8 days. Yep that ruddy Loch Lomond gets us all it seems. I'd missed the last ferry (at 7.10pm) to get to my accomm at the Ardlui Hotel and was crying too. It was all too challenging, too exhausting and I was ready to give up BUT the next day - the ferryman did return to collect me - was a new day and though it was a trek to Tyndrum from there, I settled into my stride delighting in the most awesome scenery.... not that the early parts weren't lovely too. Bridge of Orchy to Kingshouse probably my favourite day but the climb out of Kinlochlevan through that birch forest was awesome.... and the views!! Glad you got your hobbit hut for the night! And yes, those last few miles TAKE FOREVER!!
What a lovely video! We walked the West Highland Way about a week after you, and we had a similar experience along Loch Lomond. We were meant to do Rowardennan to Inverarnan on day 3, and it was tough! We were SO tired at the end of the loch, we got the ferry across to Ardlui and our B&B host came and picked us up! We were lucky with beautiful weather almost the whole way. Thanks for sharing your adventure! Such wonderful memories!
Well done! It's not easy that's for sure, but definitely worth it. Yes, everyone seems to find that section quite tough! It's hard to cover many miles when it's so undulating. Happy that my video brought back memories for you :)
I’m crying ! You got a wee pod !!! Oh my Gosh truly God and his angels were guiding you the entire time !! I truly think you met more than one angel on that trip I am so grateful for your video and channel I’m watching from California and you’re both so deserving of alll the love abundance healing success and bliss in life Thank you 🙏🏼 I’m subscribed and I’ll be watching all your videos Thank you 🙏🏼
What an adventure!!! Tk u for sharing ur awesome adventure w/ us!! The views were stunning!! Life long memories were made!! Years ago (I was ~ 12) I did hike a small part of the Appalachian Trail. When u were describing ur feelings @ ~ time stamp 24:15.....I understand what u were trying to convey. 'Adulting', maturity and logic rob a person of the gifts of childlike wonder, the amazement of life experiences and living in the moment. It takes great effort to bury the 'adult' and just live in the moment but when u do succeed....it's awesome!! About ur knee...for future hikes I suggest taking an ace wrap and a tube of pain cream like Blue Emu BTW....for some unexplainable reason YT has decided to change my user name. It now has #'s after it.
Hi Johnny, thanks for watching - glad you enjoyed! 😀 That sounds amazing, there must be so many amazing hikes & walking routes in the States! And you're absolutely right, it's so important to let go of seriousness and just enjoy life sometimes. Thanks for the tip, will bear that in mind for next time 👍
Haha oh yeah, the blisters are unreal 🙃 I don't know why I didn't see your comment 'till now, thank you for watching and taking the time to leave some words, I really appreciate it 🤗
I so enjoyed your video. I’ll be starting on Sept. 11. I’m so looking forward to it. I’m going alone, 70 year old lady, so hopefully will meet others and enjoy the adventure.
I did it as an almost 70yo and took 8 days. It was a superlative trip with the most awesome views (as 100's of photos and hours of video footage can testify) BUT there are sections along Loch Lomond esp around Rob Roy's cave (after Inversnaid) that are awkward to say the least. Going solo, I was acutely aware of ensuring I didn't slip, fall or injure myself - there were 2 Mountain Rescue calls to Conic Hill when I was there - so walking poles were essential. I'm used to walking long distances as part of my job so I didn't get blisters but I did tire on a couple of days after 10 hours of walking; the terrain can be rough and stony and slowed me down! It is challenging but supremely invigorating and restful to the soul. I booked with Mac Adventures who arranged all my accomm plus luggage transfer. Enjoy your adventure!
I also will be starting on sept 11, will keep an eye out for you Sandy, I have walked the way 3 times so far and always grab a bacon roll in Greggs at the start. Cant get enough of this walk always meet great people.
Just watch your West Highland Way video and really enjoyed it. And yes, you are right going from inversnaid to Crianlarich was extremely ambitious. I just got back 3 weeks ago from my second trip to WHW and Beinglass is definitely the place to pitch up and even that is a tough day
Thank you for taking the time to leave a comment :) Yes, we'll have to remember that for next time - or be sure to start earlier in the day so we're not walking in the dark!
When your mind and soul let go of alllll that you were holding onto within Oh my heart ❤️ I was teary watching you describe it I understand I do I truly do This busy life we have And at times I’m in nature and I feel almost a different type of sadness as I think “ I should be happier now look where I am “ And then when I let go I fully let go And allll inner versions of me are aligned and all are taking it in Mira a full release and boy oh boy is it incredible!!! That feeling you can go back to annnnytime you want or need Your man is lovely Seeing you both reading 📖 on the train 🚂 I thought “ yep they found each other …meant to be “ GOD bless you both and all you love n hold dear
Your comments are so unbelievably sweet, thank you so much for watching and engaging in such a heartfelt way, it makes making these videos so worth it! God bless you friend 🤗
Inspiring! I'm a creature of comfort, so not sure if I'd have the stamina or such a long trek. I'd cry too 🥲The views are peaceful. Love the background music during Bridge of Orchy.
It definitely felt quite hard to keep going towards the end of each day. But I've heard of people doing it over two weeks and taking some rest days, which I think would be more relaxing. Thank you for watching 🤗
Great video, will have to do this walk one day. I think it's pretty normal to feel 'at a distance' from experiences when there's something else on your mind. For me, I often feel like hikes and views are sort of hollow if I'm by myself, like an experience you can't share isn't really an experience at all in some way.
I understand exactly what you mean, that strange unsettling disconnect between the internal and the external. It's one of the reasons I love to make these videos - so even if I'm physically alone, I know I'm still sharing the experience with others :) That being said, I think there are also valuable lessons to be found in times of solitude!
As a veteran of walking this walk solo I'm wondering what advice you took before hand ! Tyndrim is alwaus the place to make a break if you need it. On past more leisurely tries I've booked a pod at tyndrum orr camped an extra day at either at inveroran or the ski resort.. if someone in the parry needs a day rest. Lovely well shot video thoigh 👍🏻 Also couldnt reccomed the vegan pizza decisions ajd bookshop at the end enough 😊 well done to you both.
Mainly online research! And advice from my dad :) Pack light was the the advice I took. Do less on the Rowerdennan-Crianlarich stretch was the advice I didn't (and regretted!) 😅
Wonderful, you must do the Everest base camp or Annapurna circuit of Nepal or the Chadar Trek in Ladakh ( India ), all in the Himalayas.❤from India. The Chadar trek is totally on ice along the frozen or flowing zanskar.
@@PilgrimKat Thank you for subscribing. That's really appreciated. I'm glad that you like what you see. With the Whithorn Way, there is also an app that you can have on your phone, so you can always have the map of the route with you.
Intend doing this walk end of may solo and then being joined by my daughter half way along(she is unable to do full walk due to work) I have no sense of direction and wonder if it is well sign posted and if there are many pilgrims along the route to feel safe till my daughter joins me on possibly day 4. Beautiful video.really enjoyed watching and made it more of a reality for me.I am going through a company so have accommodation every night unlike you two.Think at 65 camping is out of the question and i do need a bed at the end of the day. Thank you for any tips. Regards Kathy
Hi Kathy! Thank you so much for watching, hope the video helped give you a feel for what to expect :) Don't worry, I don't have a great sense of direction either and managed just fine! We used a map to track how far along we'd gone but didn't need it for directions on the whole. It's very well signposted, I believe with white thistle + yellow arrow - just follow those and you'll be fine. Spring and Autumn are the most popular times to go so there will almost certainly be many other folks doing it at the same time as you. We found that we kept meeting the same people which was really nice. Everyone was really friendly! In terms of tips, my main one would be to start early in the day and to not underestimate the portion between Rowerdennan and Crianlarich. Those were the two mistakes we made! It got dark around 7:30-8pm if I remember correctly, but if you start early you'll be able to finish early enough to give yourself more recovery time 'till the next day. Most places along the way cater to hikers with food, charging stations and the like. Just watch with Inversnaid hotel because though they have a drying room for hikers, there's no shop and they're very strict about when their restaurant serves food, so make sure you have enough food with you at least for that day. Hope that's helpful, and that you have an amazing time! Kat x
In August I will be out and about again however this time covering the Hebredies' inner and outer. Yes the WHW is fun and will do it again just for fun though overland hiking on least marked tracks and over open ground I feel is better.
It was the second week in April, we weren't expecting snow particularly but it does happen occasionally in the Spring - we were also getting quite far North by this point and it was mainly only snowy up on the mountains, once we got down closer to sea level the weather was much calmer again. But the main reason we did it in Spring was to avoid the midgies rather than hoping for good weather. Hope that helped and thank you for your kind words! ☺️
Greg video I really enjoyed it and very very helpful. I must admit it's given me a bit of anxiety as I am ready to walk it at the end of April and I'm now doubting myself. Can I ask did you do any prior training with weight on your back for this trip before going?
Hi Barry, I'm glad it was helpful! I'm sure you'll be fine - it's tough for sure, but still very do-able for anyone with a moderate level of fitness. I didn't really do much in the way of training with weight - that was the thing I was most worried about too. On the first day I found the pack really heavy but after that my feet were too sore to think about it 😅 It's okay to pack pretty light is what I'd say - there are so many shops along the way that cater to hikers and also washing machines at Tyndrum. So you don't need to take too much food and for me having a dry kit for nights and a wet kit for the day was more than enough. Everyone is a smelly hiker on the route anyway so it doesn't really matter! In terms of training, at the time I was running 2-3 times a week so was at a decent level of fitness but didn't take into consideration that walking uses different muscles (especially the hiking portions!). I tried to do some longer walks in the weeks leading up plus the occasional weekend hike, but maybe should have done more. If you're finding it tough and you have the time, you can always just take an extra day :) Hope that helps, thanks for watching and all the best for your trip!
@@PilgrimKat oh wow thank you so much for your detailed reply. Ok that's comforting to know regarding your training as I am doing a minimum of 1 and sometimes 2 hikes per week of around 20k each walk with 12 kilos on my back. After watching your video I must admit Ive really pushed myself today as I could picture myself walking with tears like you did bless u...lol (Which by the way there is nothing wrong with as we all have emotions) but amazing what a good night sleep a shower and some decent food in your tummy can make. I will take your advice as what to load up and I really am excited. I kind of walked it with you when I was watching and kind of felt what you did without actually going yet 😂 thank you once again You and your partner or true warriors 💪🏼.
Hi! No, we didn't, we intentionally planned our trip to avoid midgie season. We went in May when it was (a little) warmer but not so warm as to bring the midges out! I've heard that Autumn is also good.
hello, i'd love to do it in 2025 . I am french so can you recomend me a site or where i can get all the informations. I am 68 and don't plan on camping. Thank you
Aw lovely, I'm sure you'll have an amazing time! This one is very helpful and thorough: www.goingthewholehogg.com/west-highland-way-guide/ There is accommodation the whole way along, and also baggage transfer services which many people use :)
Thank you for watching our West Highland Way adventure! Would you do it?
A long one today, so definitely recommend getting comfy with a cuppa for this one 🫖
For those dipping in to get a feel for a West Highland Way itinerary, here are the chapter markers for your convenience:
0:00 West Highland Way Introduction
0:43 Milngavie - Balmaha
2:51 Balmaha - Inversnaid
4:14 Inversnaid - Crianlarich
10:23 Crianlarich - Bridge of Orchy
14:22 Bridge of Orchy - Kings House
17:07 Kings House - Kinlochleven
22:12 Kinglochleven - Fort William
27:17 West Highland Way Recovery
If you're planning on doing it and have any questions about the route, where we stayed etc. please don't hesitate to ask in the comments down below 😊
That feeling, I hated for years, only as I became older and worked through years of trauma, was I able to feel my emotions fully. Thanks for this video.
The intro sounds so beautiful. Words, voice and music make a magnificent combination. 🤌
Thank you for your kind words ❤
What a beautiful video and your words about the feeling you had on your last day really moved me as I do know what you meant. Congratulations on completing this trail. I am looking forward to hopefully doing this myself soon. Take care.
Thank you so much Margaret, welcome to the channel :) I'm really glad I'm not the only one who has had this experience - it's wonderful to me that even in adulthood it is possible (with the right circumstances) to rediscover childlike wonder. And that's wonderful, I hope you have a lovely time! 🤗
Wow, absolutely beautiful video of WHW the scenery was incredible, the snow covered mountains ⛰️ . 💯 %
Thank you so much, glad you enjoyed!
Lovely to watch, thank you so much! Would love to do this! ❤
Thank you so much for your kind comment. Hope you're having a lovely day :)
Dear Kat, I found your channel about a month ago and I absolutely love it❤ I watched every video and when I need to calm down, I often rewatch them. I am in love with Scotland and it's unique talents since childhood (thanks to Sir Walter Scott, Robert Burns, R.L. Stevenson and others). But only this May I was able to see this beautiful country with my own eyes. What a nature, what breathtaking landscapes, what a sense of freedom! Now, I dream of walking the WHW myself too, one day. 😊 Wishing you a happy and content life, and for the channel to grow further. Thank you for your creativity and this island of calm. 💐
So humbled by your comment🙏🏼 Where are you from? It sounds like you read more Scottish literature than the average Scot! Thank you for your passion and enthusiasm for Scotland, I'm so glad you managed to come and visit. And thank you also for your encouragement, it means a lot 💛
I am from Bulgaria (I live here for now), otherwise I'm half Russian and half Bulgarian. Had the chance to live in Russia for a bit, and also Kazakhstan for several years. So when you were talking about the difficulties of being relocated, it seems I can relate, too 🙂 Thank you for your channel, it really helps to unwind and calm down 💐
such a great sunday evening viewing, loved every minute of your advetnure. a lovely couple and a lovely video.
Thank you so much for such a lovely comment, really happy that the video brought you joy! 🤗
I did the WHW last Sept. I cried so much when I saw the statue in FW. I can not described how I felt. Thank you for this amazing video.
I know exactly what you mean! That last mile or two feels the longest of it all!
Beautiful. You’re right the golden hills are stunning and very Scottish 😊😮
Wowsers, Kat, you did it in wintry conditions! Bravo. Your vid brought back memories that are still fresh, having done it only last month. I decided on 8 days. Yep that ruddy Loch Lomond gets us all it seems. I'd missed the last ferry (at 7.10pm) to get to my accomm at the Ardlui Hotel and was crying too. It was all too challenging, too exhausting and I was ready to give up BUT the next day - the ferryman did return to collect me - was a new day and though it was a trek to Tyndrum from there, I settled into my stride delighting in the most awesome scenery.... not that the early parts weren't lovely too. Bridge of Orchy to Kingshouse probably my favourite day but the climb out of Kinlochlevan through that birch forest was awesome.... and the views!! Glad you got your hobbit hut for the night! And yes, those last few miles TAKE FOREVER!!
What a lovely video! We walked the West Highland Way about a week after you, and we had a similar experience along Loch Lomond. We were meant to do Rowardennan to Inverarnan on day 3, and it was tough! We were SO tired at the end of the loch, we got the ferry across to Ardlui and our B&B host came and picked us up! We were lucky with beautiful weather almost the whole way. Thanks for sharing your adventure! Such wonderful memories!
Well done! It's not easy that's for sure, but definitely worth it. Yes, everyone seems to find that section quite tough! It's hard to cover many miles when it's so undulating. Happy that my video brought back memories for you :)
Amazing video! Congratulations, Kat and Peter!
Thank you, we had a great time! 😃
Thank you for sharing your experience.🙏
What a great video ! Thank you ❤
I’m crying ! You got a wee pod !!!
Oh my Gosh truly God and his angels were guiding you the entire time !!
I truly think you met more than one angel on that trip
I am so grateful for your video and channel
I’m watching from California and you’re both so deserving of alll the love abundance healing success and bliss in life
Thank you 🙏🏼 I’m subscribed and I’ll be watching all your videos
Thank you 🙏🏼
Enjoy watching this one , well done both of you.
Thank you very much :)
Absolutely amazing
What an adventure!!! Tk u for sharing ur awesome adventure w/ us!! The views were stunning!! Life long memories were made!! Years ago (I was ~ 12) I did hike a small part of the Appalachian Trail. When u were describing ur feelings @ ~ time stamp 24:15.....I understand what u were trying to convey. 'Adulting', maturity and logic rob a person of the gifts of childlike wonder, the amazement of life experiences and living in the moment. It takes great effort to bury the 'adult' and just live in the moment but when u do succeed....it's awesome!! About ur knee...for future hikes I suggest taking an ace wrap and a tube of pain cream like Blue Emu BTW....for some unexplainable reason YT has decided to change my user name. It now has #'s after it.
Hi Johnny, thanks for watching - glad you enjoyed! 😀 That sounds amazing, there must be so many amazing hikes & walking routes in the States! And you're absolutely right, it's so important to let go of seriousness and just enjoy life sometimes. Thanks for the tip, will bear that in mind for next time 👍
❤❤❤ amazing thanks for sharing your adventure guys. You are amazing 🤩
Thank you so much Yolanda, you're amazing yourself! 😍
I did the West Highland way in 2007. Brings back memories. My feet suffered more than my knees. Love your channel.
Haha oh yeah, the blisters are unreal 🙃 I don't know why I didn't see your comment 'till now, thank you for watching and taking the time to leave some words, I really appreciate it 🤗
Thank you GOD for guiding me here
I am so very grateful!!
I so enjoyed your video. I’ll be starting on Sept. 11. I’m so looking forward to it. I’m going alone, 70 year old lady, so hopefully will meet others and enjoy the adventure.
I did it as an almost 70yo and took 8 days. It was a superlative trip with the most awesome views (as 100's of photos and hours of video footage can testify) BUT there are sections along Loch Lomond esp around Rob Roy's cave (after Inversnaid) that are awkward to say the least. Going solo, I was acutely aware of ensuring I didn't slip, fall or injure myself - there were 2 Mountain Rescue calls to Conic Hill when I was there - so walking poles were essential. I'm used to walking long distances as part of my job so I didn't get blisters but I did tire on a couple of days after 10 hours of walking; the terrain can be rough and stony and slowed me down! It is challenging but supremely invigorating and restful to the soul. I booked with Mac Adventures who arranged all my accomm plus luggage transfer. Enjoy your adventure!
I also will be starting on sept 11, will keep an eye out for you Sandy, I have walked the way 3 times so far and always grab a bacon roll in Greggs at the start. Cant get enough of this walk always meet great people.
@@derekjones2204 I’ll look for you. I’m staying at Premier Inn night before. Maybe I’ll see you at Gregg’s in the morning 😊
If not we will definately bump into each other at some point
I am a Scotsman with an American accent. : )
Well done you! We did it the end of march and had better weather the conditions what you had some tough conditions well done 👏
Thank you! It's such an incredible experience for sure 🤗🌿
Just watch your West Highland Way video and really enjoyed it. And yes, you are right going from inversnaid to Crianlarich was extremely ambitious. I just got back 3 weeks ago from my second trip to WHW and Beinglass is definitely the place to pitch up and even that is a tough day
Thank you for taking the time to leave a comment :) Yes, we'll have to remember that for next time - or be sure to start earlier in the day so we're not walking in the dark!
This was a beautiful video ❤
Thanks sis
When your mind and soul let go of alllll that you were holding onto within
Oh my heart ❤️ I was teary watching you describe it
I understand
I do
I truly do
This busy life we have
And at times I’m in nature and I feel almost a different type of sadness as I think “ I should be happier now look where I am “
And then when I let go
I fully let go
And allll inner versions of me are aligned and all are taking it in Mira a full release and boy oh boy is it incredible!!!
That feeling you can go back to annnnytime you want or need
Your man is lovely
Seeing you both reading 📖 on the train 🚂 I thought “ yep they found each other …meant to be “
GOD bless you both and all you love n hold dear
Your comments are so unbelievably sweet, thank you so much for watching and engaging in such a heartfelt way, it makes making these videos so worth it! God bless you friend 🤗
Fantastic video Kat - Keep up the great work. Much love and all the best on your next adventure.
Thank you very much! :)
Inspiring! I'm a creature of comfort, so not sure if I'd have the stamina or such a long trek. I'd cry too 🥲The views are peaceful. Love the background music during Bridge of Orchy.
It definitely felt quite hard to keep going towards the end of each day. But I've heard of people doing it over two weeks and taking some rest days, which I think would be more relaxing. Thank you for watching 🤗
Dasz radę
What month was this ? Congrats - it’s amazing. I’m going this Sept with my son
What a nice accent you have Kat :)
Thank you Jack :)
Great video, will have to do this walk one day. I think it's pretty normal to feel 'at a distance' from experiences when there's something else on your mind. For me, I often feel like hikes and views are sort of hollow if I'm by myself, like an experience you can't share isn't really an experience at all in some way.
I understand exactly what you mean, that strange unsettling disconnect between the internal and the external. It's one of the reasons I love to make these videos - so even if I'm physically alone, I know I'm still sharing the experience with others :) That being said, I think there are also valuable lessons to be found in times of solitude!
As a veteran of walking this walk solo I'm wondering what advice you took before hand ! Tyndrim is alwaus the place to make a break if you need it. On past more leisurely tries I've booked a pod at tyndrum orr camped an extra day at either at inveroran or the ski resort.. if someone in the parry needs a day rest.
Lovely well shot video thoigh 👍🏻
Also couldnt reccomed the vegan pizza decisions ajd bookshop at the end enough 😊 well done to you both.
Mainly online research! And advice from my dad :) Pack light was the the advice I took. Do less on the Rowerdennan-Crianlarich stretch was the advice I didn't (and regretted!) 😅
I'm looking at doing the West Highland Way in September or early October.
me too. will the weather be terrible?
Wonderful, you must do the Everest base camp or Annapurna circuit of Nepal or the Chadar Trek in Ladakh ( India ), all in the Himalayas.❤from India.
The Chadar trek is totally on ice along the frozen or flowing zanskar.
Aw, I would absolutely love to! The youngest person to do base camp (3 years old I think) was Scottish so that's inspired me!
Have you heard f the Whithorn Way? It runs from Glasgow Cathedral to the Whithorn Isle, via the Whithorn Abbey.
No I haven't, that sounds amazing, will need to look into it! Had a wee look at your channel and have subbed - love what you're doing! 🤗🌿
@@PilgrimKat Thank you for subscribing. That's really appreciated. I'm glad that you like what you see. With the Whithorn Way, there is also an app that you can have on your phone, so you can always have the map of the route with you.
Intend doing this walk end of may solo and then being joined by my daughter half way along(she is unable to do full walk due to work)
I have no sense of direction and wonder if it is well sign posted and if there are many pilgrims along the route to feel safe till my daughter joins me on possibly day 4.
Beautiful video.really enjoyed watching and made it more of a reality for me.I am going through a company so have accommodation every night unlike you two.Think at 65 camping is out of the question and i do need a bed at the end of the day.
Thank you for any tips.
Regards
Kathy
Hi Kathy! Thank you so much for watching, hope the video helped give you a feel for what to expect :) Don't worry, I don't have a great sense of direction either and managed just fine! We used a map to track how far along we'd gone but didn't need it for directions on the whole. It's very well signposted, I believe with white thistle + yellow arrow - just follow those and you'll be fine.
Spring and Autumn are the most popular times to go so there will almost certainly be many other folks doing it at the same time as you. We found that we kept meeting the same people which was really nice. Everyone was really friendly!
In terms of tips, my main one would be to start early in the day and to not underestimate the portion between Rowerdennan and Crianlarich. Those were the two mistakes we made! It got dark around 7:30-8pm if I remember correctly, but if you start early you'll be able to finish early enough to give yourself more recovery time 'till the next day.
Most places along the way cater to hikers with food, charging stations and the like. Just watch with Inversnaid hotel because though they have a drying room for hikers, there's no shop and they're very strict about when their restaurant serves food, so make sure you have enough food with you at least for that day.
Hope that's helpful, and that you have an amazing time!
Kat x
What a beautiful video! 😍 I'm planning to hike the WHW in September with my friend. During which month did you hike the WHW?
Thank you so much, we did it in May, though it felt like we got all 4 seasons! All the best to you for your hike 🤗
😊👏👍🏼
In August I will be out and about again however this time covering the Hebredies' inner and outer. Yes the WHW is fun and will do it again just for fun though overland hiking on least marked tracks and over open ground I feel is better.
Can I ask what time of year you did this trip? just curious with the snow. Beautiful footage.
It was the second week in April, we weren't expecting snow particularly but it does happen occasionally in the Spring - we were also getting quite far North by this point and it was mainly only snowy up on the mountains, once we got down closer to sea level the weather was much calmer again. But the main reason we did it in Spring was to avoid the midgies rather than hoping for good weather. Hope that helped and thank you for your kind words! ☺️
Greg video I really enjoyed it and very very helpful. I must admit it's given me a bit of anxiety as I am ready to walk it at the end of April and I'm now doubting myself. Can I ask did you do any prior training with weight on your back for this trip before going?
Hi Barry, I'm glad it was helpful! I'm sure you'll be fine - it's tough for sure, but still very do-able for anyone with a moderate level of fitness. I didn't really do much in the way of training with weight - that was the thing I was most worried about too. On the first day I found the pack really heavy but after that my feet were too sore to think about it 😅
It's okay to pack pretty light is what I'd say - there are so many shops along the way that cater to hikers and also washing machines at Tyndrum. So you don't need to take too much food and for me having a dry kit for nights and a wet kit for the day was more than enough. Everyone is a smelly hiker on the route anyway so it doesn't really matter!
In terms of training, at the time I was running 2-3 times a week so was at a decent level of fitness but didn't take into consideration that walking uses different muscles (especially the hiking portions!). I tried to do some longer walks in the weeks leading up plus the occasional weekend hike, but maybe should have done more. If you're finding it tough and you have the time, you can always just take an extra day :) Hope that helps, thanks for watching and all the best for your trip!
@@PilgrimKat oh wow thank you so much for your detailed reply. Ok that's comforting to know regarding your training as I am doing a minimum of 1 and sometimes 2 hikes per week of around 20k each walk with 12 kilos on my back. After watching your video I must admit Ive really pushed myself today as I could picture myself walking with tears like you did bless u...lol (Which by the way there is nothing wrong with as we all have emotions) but amazing what a good night sleep a shower and some decent food in your tummy can make. I will take your advice as what to load up and I really am excited. I kind of walked it with you when I was watching and kind of felt what you did without actually going yet 😂 thank you once again You and your partner or true warriors 💪🏼.
Did you have issues with the midges?
When's the best time of year to walk this route?
Hi! No, we didn't, we intentionally planned our trip to avoid midgie season. We went in May when it was (a little) warmer but not so warm as to bring the midges out! I've heard that Autumn is also good.
What time of year did you go ?
May time :) We avoided the midges which was a win...but still ended up in a snow storm so it wasn't full proof 😅
Was this in summer time?
It was May :)
What time of year was it?
Spring time, during the month of April - not that you could tell from the snow haha!
hello, i'd love to do it in 2025 . I am french so can you recomend me a site or where i can get all the informations. I am 68 and don't plan on camping. Thank you
Aw lovely, I'm sure you'll have an amazing time! This one is very helpful and thorough: www.goingthewholehogg.com/west-highland-way-guide/
There is accommodation the whole way along, and also baggage transfer services which many people use :)
I'm looking at doing the West Highland Way in September or early October.
Amazing, hope you enjoy it! It's a good time of year for it - you'll miss the midgies :)
I'm looking at doing the West Highland Way in September or early October.
I'm looking at doing the West Highland Way in September or early October.