Highland Glens, Lochs, and the Gateway to the Great Glen
Inverness-shire is where the Highlands open up — a vast and varied region that stretches from the east coast to the wild western sea lochs. Centred on the city of Inverness, it’s one of Scotland’s most captivating areas for walking holidays and outdoor adventures, linking iconic trails, mountain routes, and lochside paths that define the country’s wild heart.
This is the natural crossroads of the Highlands — where the Great Glen Way follows ancient fault lines, the Cairngorms National Park rises to the southeast, and the Caledonian Canal winds north toward the sea. From the forests of Glen Affric to the shores of Loch Ness, Inverness-shire is a region made for self-guided travel, connecting culture, wilderness, and accessibility in one unforgettable landscape.
Trails & Routes
- Great Glen Way – A 117 km trail from Fort William to Inverness, following the Caledonian Canal through the heart of the Highlands.
- Affric Kintail Way – A spectacular route linking Drumnadrochit and Morvich through Glen Affric, one of Scotland’s most beautiful glens.
- South Loch Ness Trail – Quiet lochside walking with panoramic views over Loch Ness and forested hillsides.
- Glen Affric Trails – Woodland circuits through ancient Caledonian pine forest and mirrored lochs.
- Cairngorms National Park Paths – Accessible from Aviemore and Kingussie, offering endless forest and mountain routes.
Adventure Highlights
- Walk the Great Glen Way from coast to coast.
- Explore the forests and lochs of Glen Affric National Nature Reserve.
- Visit Loch Ness, one of the world’s most famous inland waters.
- Discover Inverness, the Highland capital and cultural hub.
- Enjoy kayaking, cycling, and wild swimming along the Caledonian Canal.
Explore the Area
- Inverness – The capital of the Highlands, with river walks, cultural landmarks, and easy access to the Great Glen and Cairngorms.
- Drumnadrochit – A Loch Ness village and base for exploring Glen Urquhart and the Affric Kintail Way.
- Fort Augustus – A charming canal-side town at the southern tip of Loch Ness, perfect for walkers and cyclists.
- Glen Affric – One of Scotland’s most beautiful glens, home to ancient pinewoods, lochs, and long-distance walking routes.
- Aviemore – A nearby adventure hub in the Cairngorms, accessible by train, offering mountain, forest, and lochside trails.
