Day 1 - Arrival in Glasgow or Edinburgh
Upon arrival in Glasgow or Edinburgh, you will take a train or bus to Fort William (a 3h45 to 5h transfer), a charming seaside town known as Scotland’s outdoor sports capital. Nestled at the foot of Ben Nevis (1345m), the highest peak in the UK, Fort William is the perfect starting point for your adventure. Settle into your B&B or hotel for the night.
*Welcome to Scotland in Scottish Gaelic
Day 2 - From Fort William to Glenfinnan - 35km and 650 meters of elevation gain
Begin your adventure by heading to Fort William, where you’ll cross to Camusnagaul, the gateway to Cape Wrath. From the very start, excitement builds as you embark on this journey. The peaceful route along the Ardgour Peninsula and Loch Linnhe offers serene landscapes, setting the tone for your trek. As you approach Glenfinnan via Cona Glen, be prepared to marvel at Scotland’s breathtaking scenery around every corner. Spend the night in your [B&B/hotel/inn].
Day 3 - From Glenfinnan to A' Chuil - 19km and 598 meters of elevation gain
Today, head north from Glenfinnan to explore a rugged and untamed terrain. This shorter stage begins with relatively accessible trails before introducing you to the more challenging terrain that lies ahead in the coming days. For the night, either pitch your tent for a wild camping experience or stay at the A’ Chuil bothy, a perfect spot for an immersive night in the heart of nature.
Day 4 - From A' Chuil to Barrisdale Bay - 25km and 878 meters of elevation gain
This unforgettable stage takes you through the legendary “Rough Bounds of Knoydart,” a name that evokes both challenge and personal achievement, as well as the promise of an extraordinary adventure. Trails, where they exist, are faint, and the demanding terrain will test your skills. Yet, amidst this raw wilderness, the landscapes unfold in all their grandeur, offering breathtaking views at every turn. For the night, pitch your tent at a campsite or opt for a bothy. Alternatively, you can travel to the comfort of a B&B in Kinloch Hourn.
Day 5 - From Barrisdale Bay to Morvich - 33km and 1417 meters of elevation gain
Brace yourself for a challenging 33km stage with significant elevation gain. After following the coastal path from Barrisdale Bay, the route crosses marshy areas where the trail can be hard to follow. The challenge intensifies with the ascent of the Forcan Ridge, featuring two majestic peaks offering spectacular panoramas. Finally, the descent into Shiel Bridge marks a striking transition from untamed wilderness to civilized comforts. For the night, stay in a B&B or campsite in Morvich, or opt for a hostel or hotel in Shiel Bridge for added comfort.
Day 6 - From Morvich to Maol-bhuidhe - 23km and 1113 meters of elevation gain
This stage of the Cape Wrath Trail promises a memorable experience, with generally favorable terrain conditions. From Morvich, the trail leads to the impressive Falls of Glomach, followed by a steep descent (be cautious!) into the Glen Elchaig valley. You’ll then reach the remote Maol-bhuidhe bothy, a secluded shelter accessible only by foot, adding a touch of adventure to your journey. For the night, pitch your tent for a wild camping experience or enjoy the rustic charm of the bothy.
Day 7 - From Maol-bhuidhe to Craig - 24km and 633 meters of elevation gain
From the secluded Maol-bhuidhe bothy, embark on an unforgettable journey. Make a stop at the charming Bendronaig Bothy before tackling a steep and demanding route, culminating in the majestic Bealach Béarnais pass. The descent, while more accessible, still presents challenges with winding trails and rugged paths, eventually leading you to Craig in the Strathcarron valley. This stage offers unique moments in the heart of the Scottish Highlands. For the night, enjoy a comfortable stay in a hostel in Craig.
Day 8 - From Craig to Kinlochewe - 16km and 472 meters of elevation gain
This stage takes you through the majestic Coulin Pass, with trails that are generally easy to navigate. However, the adventure becomes more challenging in the final kilometers, where overgrown paths will test your patience, especially if carrying a heavy pack. Despite these obstacles, the satisfaction of reaching Kinlochewe makes every effort worthwhile. For the night, choose the comfort of a hotel, B&B, or hostel.
Day 9 - From Kinlochewe to Shenavall - 26km and 660 meters of elevation gain
Itinerary ConteThis iconic stage takes you through the majestic Great Wilderness, with mostly well-defined paths. A more demanding, untracked section crosses the mountainous Torridon landscapes to connect Loch Fada and Loch an Nid. While the temptation to shorten the stage may arise, don’t miss the Shenavall Bothy. Spacious and well-equipped, it offers spectacular views in clear weather. For the night, settle into the Shenavall Bothy or enjoy a wild camping experience.nt
Day 10 - From Shenavall to Inverlael - 18km and 740 meters of elevation gain
This stage of the Cape Wrath Trail, though shorter, is not without challenges. You’ll begin with a steep, boggy ascent from Shenavall, followed by a demanding climb on the historic Coffin Road from Dundonnell. The route ends in Inverlael, along the A835, marking the conclusion of an intense day. For the night, choose to stay in a B&B in Inverlael or nearby Ullapool.
Day 11 - From Inverlael to Oykel Bridge - 34km and 769 meters of elevation gain
This leg of the journey alternates between manageable tracks and forest trails, offering a captivating traverse through the contrasting landscapes of the wild Inverlael Forest moorlands and the picturesque valleys of Glen Douchary. For the night, enjoy the comfort of the only hotel in Oykel Bridge.
Day 12 - From Oykel Bridge to Inchnadamph - 31km and 564 meters of elevation gain
Begin the day with a gentle trail along the meandering Oykel River, making for an easy start. Continue your adventure through the majestic Benmore Forest before ascending the steep slopes to the narrow pass below Conival and Ben More Assynt. Finally, descend gracefully towards Inchnadamph, where welcome amenities await on the picturesque shores of Loch Assynt. For the night, relax in a hotel or B&B.
Day 13 - From Inchnadamph to Kylestrome - 27km and 1092 meters of elevation gain
Leaving Inchnadamph, the trail guides you to the remote Bealach na h-Uidhe pass, followed by a spectacular descent under Britain’s highest waterfall. A challenging, pathless section leads to Glencoul Bothy, followed by a rugged trail along the tranquil Loch Glendhu to the Glendhu Bothy. Finally, a long track takes you to Kylestrome, near Kylesku. For the night, camp in the wild or opt for the comfort of a hotel 2 kilometers away.
Day 14 - From Kylestrome to Rhiconich - 30km and 752 meters of elevation gain
Starting near Kylesku, this stage offers breathtaking views before crossing vast moorlands to the summit of Ben Dreavie. A pathless section then leads to an old track winding beneath the majestic Ben Stack and descending to the A838. A hunter’s trail skirts the western flank of Arkle, followed by a tough off-trail section leading to Rhiconich on the dramatic west coast. For the night, choose between the comfort of a hotel or an immersive wild camping experience.
Day 15 - From Rhiconich to Sandwood Bay - 19km and 319 meters of elevation gain
This shorter stage primarily follows secondary roads, offering scenic views throughout. The final segment takes you to the stunning Sandwood Bay, a true natural gem where you can camp harmoniously with the environment (no facilities, following Leave No Trace principles). Alternatively, continue to the Strathchailleach Bothy. For the night, opt for the rustic charm of the Strathchailleach Bothy or set up your tent for a wild camping experience.
Day 16 - From Sandwood Bay to Cape Wrath - 12km and 421 meters of elevation gain
The final stage begins with an ascent offering breathtaking views of Sandwood Bay, a true tribute to the Highlands’ natural grandeur. You’ll traverse rugged terrain heading north through the Cape Wrath MoD firing range. This adventure briefly veers inland before concluding triumphantly on the road leading to the spectacular Cape Wrath lighthouse. For the night, stay at the Kervaig Bothy or opt for a bus and ferry transfer to Durness for a well-deserved rest.
Day 17 - Transfer from Cape Wrath to Inverness - 4 to 5 hours
Today, transfer from Cape Wrath or Durness to Inverness, the iconic capital of the Scottish Highlands. Located on the banks of the River Ness, Inverness charms visitors with its picturesque allure, medieval castle, pleasant riverside walks, and proximity to the legendary Loch Ness. This city beautifully blends history, culture, and grand natural panoramas. For the night, enjoy the comfort of a hotel or B&B.
Day 18 - Return to Home
Transfer back to Glasgow or Edinburgh and catch your return flight. Haste Ye Back!
