The Gateway to Ben Nevis, the magical town of Fort William in Scotland is one of the best places in the world for those seeking pursuits in nature. Hugged by the highest peaks in the UK with tumbling waterfalls and crowns of snow, this West Highland haven sits at the tip of Loch Linnhe and is encompassed by breath-taking scenery at every turn. Perfect for those looking to flee the everyday in search of storybook sojourns, it has something for all those with wild spirits and romantic hearts.
Fall in love with its stunning mountainscapes, enjoy luxurious voyages, and uncover unique experiences in Fort William to weave into your fairytale escape.
Wander Neptune's Staircase
Set at the foot of Ben Nevis, Neptune’s Staircase comprises a series of eight locks on the Caledonian Canal. Completed in 1822, this engineering marvel is the longest staircase lock in Britain and covers 62 feet of canal. Making it all the more impressive, the lock’s system was originally hand-powered. Part of the Great Glen Way, Neptune Staircase is as inviting for walkers as boating wayfarers and is interlaced with a series of footpaths. The paths are gentle and smooth, perfect for serene moments of relaxed waterside wandering with views of the staircase and the towering frame of Britain’s highest mountain beyond.
Picnic By Steall Waterfall
A majestic force of nature, Steall Waterfall (also known as An Steall Bàn) is one of the most beautiful places to visit near Fort William. For a heavenly hike, park in the car park at the end of Glen Nevis Road and follow the trail for a mile or so to reach the falls. As you go, look out for trail highlights such as the Water of Nevis Point and Glen Nevis Rope Bridge, before reaching Steall Falls. For an unforgettable experience, take a spot on the grass and refuel with a delectable picnic as the sound of Scotland’s second highest waterfall thunders its rhythm a short distance away. Remember to leave the surroundings as you found them after your picnic, with only nature left in place.
Take a Cruise of Loch Linnhe
Fort William can be found on the uppermost reaches of Loch Linnhe and is an idyllic place from which to absorb its beauty. Promising one of the most unique experiences in Fort William, cruises depart from the town and propose an enchanting exploration of the lake and its waterways. Should you wish for a laidback experience, Cruise Loch Linnhe offers 2-hour tours of the loch, taking guests past favourites such as the Caledonian Canal, the Corpach shipwreck, the Jacobite steam train (of Harry Potter fame), and endless mountain vistas. For the lovers of wildlife, the chance to glimpse sea eagles, golden eagles, otters and stags is especially magical. Meanwhile, dedicated boat trips to seal island (or Black Rock) provide an unmissable opportunity to see adorable common and grey seals.
Enjoy a Tour of Ben Nevis Distillery
Ben Nevis Distillery was founded in 1825 by “Long John” MacDonald and is one of the oldest distilleries in Scotland. Crafting malt whisky from the highest water source in Britain – the mighty Ben Nevis - the distillery has meticulously perfected its craft over two centuries and is a must-visit. For those seeking an introduction to Scotland’s “liquid sunshine”, venture over to the 19th-century visitor centre and take a behind-the-scenes tour of the distillery. As part of guided tours, you can learn all about its history and whisky-making processes and are also welcome to sample select tipples. Finish your tour with a plate of something delicious in the onsite café.
Go Skiing at Nevis Range Mountain Experience
For a winter retreat of dreamlike proportions, turn your attention to the sugary, snow-capped peaks surrounding Fort William and the Nevis Range Mountain Experience. The highest destination in the UK for snow sports and alpine pursuits, the mountains offer seasonal skiing and snowboarding opportunities for beginners and mavens alike. Take to the learner slopes to grow your confidence or breeze down the off-piste runs if you’re already a snow-kissed aficionado. Usually open from December to April when the peaks are coated in a powdery cloak, the Nevis Range promises an unrivalled outlet for those seeking exhilarating adventure and exquisite natural beauty alike.
Explore Old Inverlochy Castle
Seek a memorable passage through time during your trip to Fort William and head to Old Inverlochy Castle. Originally dating back to the 13th century, this great medieval stronghold was built on the footstep of an ancient Pictish settlement at the entrance to the Great Glen. Used as a residence and later a strategic military post during the Civil Wars in the 17th century, it was superseded by the construction of the new Inverlochy Castle in 1863 (once visited by Queen Victoria). Today, Old Inverlochy Castle’s romantic remains are some of the best-preserved of their age and present a fascinating window into the past. Soak up the ethereal ambience with a stroll around the castle’s walls and enjoy its riverside setting on the banks of the Lochy.
Creag Meagaidh National Nature Reserve
To embrace the wilder side of Fort William, follow the call of Creag Meagaidh Nature Reserve, a bewitching realm of lochs, bens, woodland, and moorland. Covering nearly 10,000 acres, it is one of the best places for walks and adventures. For the experienced alpinists and climbers, the reserve’s whaleback ridges in summer and ice walls in winter provide world-class mountaineering. Meanwhile, for more sedate sojourns, boundless pathways weave past mist-shrouded pools and a mosaic of verdant vistas and heathland habitats for soul-stirring forays. For more alfresco endeavours, you can also visit the Glencoe National Nature Reserve on the other side of Fort William and bask in its captivating surrounds.
Ride the Jacobite Steam Train over the Glenfinnan Viaduct
Hailed as one of the best railway journeys in the world, the Jacobite Train promises one of the most unique experiences in Fort William. Journeying for 84 miles across an enchanting roundtrip, this vintage steam train leads passengers past some of Scotland’s greatest sights. Step aboard at Fort William’s station and anticipate spellbinding views of Ben Nevis, Britain’s highest mountain, and Loch Morar, the deepest freshwater loch. The train also visits Arisaig, Britain’s most westerly mainland station, passes River Morar, the shortest river, and travels past Loch Nevis, Europe’s deepest seawater loch. Before you alight, one of the voyage’s most unforgettable highlights features a ride over the awe-inspiring Glenfinnan Viaduct. Opened in 1901, the viaduct is over 1,000 feet wide and 100 feet high and is most famously recognised for its starring role in the Harry Potter films.
Take the Corran Point Ferry
For a dreamy day trip from Fort William, make the most of the daily ferry service from Corran in Nether Lochaber to Corran Point in Ardgour. One of only a few inland ferries and just a few miles from Fort William, the service crosses Loch Linnhe at the Corran Narrows and connects the mainland and neighbouring peninsula and isles. Running throughout the week and only taking around 5 minutes to head from side to side, the Corran Ferry is invaluable for locals and visitors alike. No booking is required, simply turn up and wait for your space aboard the ferry and enjoy the scenic crossing. En route, admire the waterfront aspect of Corran Lighthouse, a 43-foot, white and gold-painted lighthouse on the rocky shores of Loch Linnhe. Built in 1860, this lighthouse was one of the first in Britain to move from manual operation (becoming automatic in 1898), and it is a striking sight to behold.
Feeling inspired for a Highland sojourn? Take a look at our luxury cottages in Fort William.
