Traveller's Tales: Walking the Great Glen Way and West Highland Way

Walkers' Britain & Europe traveller Laurie Berg Sapp travelled to Scotland with her husband and combined our Great Glen Way and West Highland Way trips with an attempt on Ben Nevis. Here is her account.

Why did you choose this trip?

I had never been to Scotland and was intrigued by the history, the remarkable literary heritage and the rugged beauty. We also liked the idea of combining two walks, attempting Ben Nevis and walking with Jon Millen as our guide. He is wonderful company and a great deal of fun.

How did you prepare?

We prepared by taking long hikes in our home state of Arizona, some as long as 12 miles. We also travelled to Flagstaff, which sits at 7,000 feet, to train at elevation and get our lungs ready. I hike two or three times a week and love being outdoors.

What was the best part of your trip?

The best part was feeling like you were in another world entirely. So isolated, so wild and so beautiful, completely away from everything familiar. It is very different from where we live. The people on the trip were wonderful, and the people of Scotland could not have been any kinder.

And the most challenging part?

Without question, attempting to climb Ben Nevis. We set out to reach the summit but when the rain came in and the winds hit 50 miles per hour, Jon wisely took us on a loop back down the mountain. I was nearly blown off my feet. We were wet, tired and had to cross a river before we finally found shelter. Typical Scotland: just as we were descending, the sun came out.

Your favourite destination?

I loved Drumnadrochit on the northern shore of Loch Ness, where we stayed in a lovely little church converted into a bed and breakfast. The setting was charming and the food that evening was the best of the trip.

Best food and drink?

Neeps and tatties. I still dream about those turnips and potatoes. My husband loved working his way through the Scottish pubs and sampling as many local beers as he could find.

>> View the Great Glen Way walking holiday

>> View the West Highland Way walking holiday

>> View all walking holidays in Scotland