Fort William is renowned as the "Outdoor Capital of the UK" and a gateway to Scotland's most dramatic landscapes in the Scottish Highlands. At the head of Loch Linnhe, Fort William is home to Ben Nevis, the highest peak in the British Isles. Fort William dates back to the 17th century when it was established as a garrison town during the Jacobite uprisings. Today, it is a bustling hub for outdoor enthusiasts and visitors exploring the Highlands.
A trip to Fort William wouldn't be complete without experiencing a bit of Ben Nevis, standing at 1,345 meters (4,413 feet) above sea level. Which makes it the highest mountain in the British Isles. Each year, over 100,000 visitors flock to Ben Nevis to experience its rugged beauty and breathtaking summit views. However, climbers report that clear summit views occur on just 17 days a year.
The Nevis Range is home to the Nevis Range Mountain Gondola is just a short drive North from Fort William. The mountain gondola experience which takes visitors 650m up Aonach Mor which is the 8th highest mountain in Scotland. The gondola is a fantastic experience, and you get views of the Great Glen, Ben Nevis and beyond. You do pay for car parking at the visitor centre with toilet facilities at the top and bottom of the gondola. The base station houses the Pinemarten Café Bar and, at the top, the Snowgoose Restaurant & Bar, which operates in line with gondola hours.
The West Highland Museum is in the town centre. It offers a fascinating insight into the history of the Highlands, from the Jacobite rebellions to local life through the ages.
The West Highland Way, one of Scotland's most famous long-distance walks. Finishes in Fort William at the West Highland Way End Monument in Gordon Square. This 96-mile walk, which starts in Milngavie, takes you through some of Scotland's most beautiful landscapes. The route includes several iconic landmarks. Such as Loch Lomond, Rannoch Moor, and Glen Coe, showcasing the stunning natural beauty of Scotland.
The Caledonian Canal on the edge of Fort William connects to Inverness on the East Coast. Neptune's Staircase on the edge of Fort William is a series of eight canal locks built by Thomas Telford. It is the longest staircase lock in Britain and an impressive engineering feat worth visiting.
The stunning Glen Coe is around 17 miles South, this dramatic Glen is famous for its rugged beauty and historical significance. Including its association with the Massacre of Glencoe. The drive through Glencoe is one of the most scenic in Scotland and is worth enjoying.
Mallaig is a charming fishing port and ferry terminal connecting to the Isle of Skye and beyond. The Jacobite Steam Train, often recognised as the "Hogwarts Express" from the Harry Potter films. Begins its journey in Fort William and eventually concludes in Mallaig. Offering a scenic and unforgettable experience along the way.
Spean Bridge, just 10 miles northeast on the A82 towards Fort Augustus and Inverness, is home to the famous Commando Memorial commemorating those lost in the Second World War. Heading to the South is the beautiful town of Oban, this drive will take just over an hour as you enjoying stunning views of the West Coast of Scotland.
