Starting the trek

We did 4 day hiking of this eponymous trek in Scottish Highlands in April 2013. It was a fantastic experience. Despite the relatively low altitude as well as forestation, the Highlands can offer many unique sides - its vast valleys, and a very Northern feeling of these majestic old mountains. Also the colours are astonishing, the contrast between a picturesque sky of all shadows of blue, grey, yellow or black... with the natural tones of the greenery, flowers, rocks, soil... A weather issue must be mentioned also. The april weather was quite cold, with rain and wind, but we saw sun every day, even if it was for a 15 minutes (after whole day of rain, one enjoys this moment like never before). Plus we got soon into appreciation of the Scotch whisky. And an important positive was that in this time of the year, there aren't any infamous little flies known as midges. It's recomended as a gateway trek in Scotland, and it's worth it... Truly, a strong side of Scotland lies in the countryside. What better place to experience it than in the mountains.

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Some facts (www.walkhighlands.co.uk)

The West Highland Way was Scotland's first long distance route and remains by far the most popular. Stretching for 151km from Milngavie on the edge of Glasgow to Fort William at the foot of Ben Nevis, the route offers a fabulous introduction to the Scottish Highlands. Those wanting to add an extra days walking could even begin in the heart of Glasgow, reaching Milngavie by following the Kelvin Walkway.

It offers tremendous variety, beginning in the pastoral landscapes beneath the Campsies, past the serene beauty of Loch Lomond, and on into increasingly rugged and majestic Highlands. It then crosses the vast, awe-inspiring expanse of Rannoch Moor, with a glimpse down Glencoe, before crossing the hills to lovely Loch Leven. The route finally reaches Fort William via beautiful Glen Nevis. The very keenest could continue from the town by walking the Great Glen Way, or the unofficial East Highland Way.