Embraced by the highest mountains in the UK, the town of Fort William in the western Scottish Highlands is a place of unbridled natural beauty. On one side, the mist-shrouded brows and peaks of the Nevis Range punctuate the sky, while on the other, the shores of Loch Linnhe shimmer under vast skies. Just perfect for adventures amongst nature’s soothing balm, it promises endless escapism for lovers of wilderness and alpine pursuits.
To curate the most divine retreat, uncover our curated guide to the best places to visit in Fort William. From coastal gems and valley trails to iconic local landmarks, there is something to inspire everyone.
Ben Nevis
Scotland’s rugged Highlands are home to some of the most mesmeric mountainscapes imaginable. The most famous of all, the mighty monolith of Ben Nevis towers above its neighbouring foothills and bens. Part of the Grampian Mountain range, this legendary Munro reaches 4,411 feet above sea level and is renowned as the highest mountain in the UK. Whether you intend to hike to the summit of this former volcano or simply would like to absorb its stunning presence from a serene spot nearby, this is one of the most magical places to visit in Fort William. For more information about walking on the mountain, head over to Ben Nevis’ visitor centre and glean advice from the knowledgeable staff.
Inchree Falls
Thanks to its undulating mountain ranges and winding waterways, the landscapes around Fort William are decorated with countless waterfalls. To pursue spellbinding hours in nature, a trip to Inchree Falls unveils one of the area’s most striking natural attractions. Trace the woodland path from the dedicated forestry car park and make way to see the falls. Composed of eight waterfalls cascading through a verdant valley setting, Inchree Falls make for an enthralling spectacle. Within the trees that surround the cascades, enigmatic red squirrels can sometimes be seen. For further exploration, you can also visit the magnificent Steall Waterfall (one of the highest in Scotland) and its nearby Lower Falls near Fort William.
Glenfinnan Viaduct
The Glenfinnan Viaduct is one of the most recognisable landmarks in Scotland. A work of engineering wonder, this Victorian viaduct was constructed from 1897 to 1901 and is the longest railway bridge of its kind in Scotland. Rising to 100 feet high and spanning 1,000 feet across, it makes for a truly imposing sight. Follow one of the valley trails to marvel at the viaduct from the ground, or enjoy a unique experience on the iconic Royal Scotsman to admire the valley vistas and views over Loch Shiel from a luxurious lacquer-polished carriage. Departing from Fort William, the ruby red Jacobite steam train is especially well-known for its role as the Hogwarts Express in the Harry Potter films.
Under a mile from the Glenfinnan Viaduct’s east and west viewpoints, the Glenfinnan Monument can be found on the shores of Loch Shiel. With an incredible mountain backdrop, this heavenly spot invites visitors to tread the line between past and present, learning about local history and immersing in the simply exquisite scenery that paints the horizon. Depending on the season, you can savour picnics by the shore, or refuel in Viaduct View Café from spring to autumn or the Monument View Café in winter.
Aonach Mor
Residing just 2 miles from the spiring frame of Ben Nevis, Aonach Mor is one of the Highlands’ regal Munros. A sought-after destination amongst seasoned hikers, it is the eighth highest mountain in Britain and promises both challenging and rewarding hikes up its sun-bleached face. Making it all the more enticing, Aonach Mor also features the unique Nevis Range Mountain Gondola. Encouraging wayfarers of all generations to explore the mountain and absorb its awe-inspiring ambience, the scenic gondola travels up to more than 2,000 feet above sea level and reveals heaven-sent views. The gondola is open on select days throughout the year and welcomes everyone from walkers and mountain bikers to skiers and snowboarders. Atop the mountain, find the summit Snowgoose Café for warming food and drinks.
Glencoe
The village of Glencoe resides within one of the most scenic glens in the Highlands. Nestled within the Glencoe Valley, it is one of the most beloved destinations near Fort William for its breathtaking scenery, with meandering mountain trails, tumbling waterfalls, and vast forests. To familiarise yourself, venture to Glencoe Visitor Centre and plan a dreamy day exploring its highlights and hidden gems. Calling to hikers, the 1.5-mile Signal Rock and An Torr walk is particularly captivating and reveals poignant local history and soul-stirring surroundings. Framed by ornamental woodland and grand North American redwoods, Glenchoe Lochan is equally alluring and beckons for slow moments and alfresco feasts by the tranquil loch.
Caledonian Canal
The far-famed Caledonian Canal is Scotland’s longest waterway, connecting both the west and east coasts through the middle of the country from Fort William to Inverness. Completed in the early 19th century by esteemed Scottish engineer Thomas Telford, the canal is a fascinating piece of industrial heritage and provides endless opportunities for wanderlust pursuits. Explore the beginning of the canal at Carpach in Fort William and roam along the towpath on foot or bike to uncover Neptune's Staircase in Banavie where engineering marvel and natural artistry combine. A few miles away in Gairlochy, find a historic Pepper Pot lighthouse. Reached along the canal towpath, this petite lighthouse was built in 1840 to mark the entrance of the Caledonian Canal and still sits pretty overlooking the water.
Corpach Shipwreck
For poetic moments and photogenic inspiration, seek the intriguing remains of Corpach’s shipwreck. Resting on a stretch of pebble-strewn beach between Corpach and Caol villages near Fort William, this 26-meter-long vessel dates back to 1975 and was known as MV Dayspring. Believed to have emerged from the waters of the loch in 2011, this former fishing boat is a romantic effigy of time and attracts photographers from far and wide for its thought-provoking aesthetics. Admire the wreck from afar and capture its atmospheric silhouette through the lens, before turning your attention to the sublime panoramas of mountain and loch all around. The view of Ben Nevis is particularly special and best enjoyed with a delectable picnic from a comfortable spot by the water.
Glen Nevis
To uncover one of the best places to visit in Fort William, fall in love with the otherworldly charm of Glen Nevis. One of the most beautiful and accessible glens in Scotland, Glen Nevis is set just behind the town of Fort William and is home to an inviting visitor centre – often used as the start point of the Ben Nevis ascent. Put time aside to follow some of the glen’s gently winding footpaths and take in the bewitching landscapes. One of the glen’s most adored attractions is Steall Waterfall, as well as Braveheart village, the former filming location of the 1995 film Braveheart. Pursue your own wilderness escapism in ‘The Glen’, ready to bask in the sun beside crystalline mountain streams and write the pages of your own fairytale at the foot of the UK’s highest mountains.
Camusdarach
Fort William is synonymous with majestic mountainscapes and celebrated as the Gateway to Ben Nevis. That said, Scotland’s west coast is also renowned for its spectacular beaches that decorate the coast with silvery swathes of powder fine sand and turquoise sea. Amongst the best beaches, the enchanting Camusdarach and its surrounding bays propose unrivalled moments by the ocean. Head west and take a spot on the beach on balmy days, relaxing atop the silken sands and gazing out over the water to the Small Isles and Isle of Skye in the distance. For an unforgettable finale to the day, linger a little longer on the beach to admire one of its beguiling sunsets, wrapped in the cosiest blankets and warmed by a mug of something delicious.
Feeling inspired for a Scottish staycation of heavenly proportions? Uncover our collection of luxury cottages in Fort William.
