Fort William lays claim to being the outdoor capital of the UK. Lying on the shores of Loch Linnhe in the western Highlands, Fort William offers an array of thrills and outdoor adventures all year round.
Whether it’s hiking the stunning area, getting your fix for adrenaline sports or sampling world-class Highland produce, Fort William deserves a spot on your travel radar.
Without further ado, here are 5 of the best things to do in Fort William:
Climb Ben Nevis
The highest mountain in the UK, Ben Nevis needs no introduction. It’s no surprise then that scaling the iconic 1,345m mountain is one of the biggest bucket list items for tourists visiting Fort William.
Most people with moderate fitness will be able to scale the summit which usually takes around 4 hours (7-9 hour round trip). Don’t forget that conditions can change suddenly up there so make sure to come prepared and wear appropriate clothing.
Being the most famous mountain, the crowds roll in during peak season so you should consider the shoulder seasons of Spring and Autumn for your ascent.
Guides are available, though not compulsory.
Ski and Mountain Bike at Nevis Range
Come late December, Scotland’s highest snowsports destination welcomes skiers and snowboarders for some of the best skiing that can be found in the UK.
Nevis Range comprises 7 green runs, 12 blues, 11 reds, and 5 blacks. Additionally, the Back Corries area is arguably the best off-piste skiing that can be had in Scotland.
Snowfall in the Nevis Range (and all of Scotland), is like much of the weather: unpredictable. There’s never a guarantee but on its day, some of the finest skiing can be found here.
Outside of the ski season (usually around April), Nevis Range opens for mountain bikers and operates the UK’s only mountain gondola, transporting adrenaline junkies and their bikes to the top of the mountain for fast, singletrack downhill trails.
Additionally, family-friendly blue grade trails are on offer, including the 9km ‘Blue Doon” down Aonach Mor.
Ride The Jacobite Steam Train
You know that steam train in Harry Potter that takes the students to Hogwarts? That’s the famous Jacobite Steam Train which is a big hitter for tourists across the West Highlands.
Starting at Fort William, The Jacobite runs for 41 miles and ends at Mallaig, taking in extraordinary sights such as the Glenfinnan Viaduct and Loch Eil.
This celebrated railway was first opened in 1901 and often crops up in lists for the world’s most scenic train journeys.
Loch Linnhe Boat Trip
At over 50 km in length, Loch Linnhe is a sea loch which Fort William occupies the north end of. The loch was a filming location for the movie Braveheart and with Ben Nevis towering in the background, it’s a beautiful body of water to explore.
A popular activity in the area is taking a boat trip across the loch. Cruise Loch Linnhe operates cruises year-round and offers opportunities to enjoy the waters in every season.
Whether you’re spotting seals and otters, or admiring the entrance of the great Caledonian Canal, Loch Linnhe boat trips are a captivating way to appreciate Fort William and the surrounding area.
Ben Nevis Distillery
If you like a tipple, it’s rude not to enjoy the water of life in an area of outstanding single malts. Ben Nevis Distillery stands at the foot of its namesake and it’s one of the oldest licensed distilleries in Scotland, having been founded in 1825.
The distillery is open Monday to Friday all year round and weekends only in June and August. Standard guided tours of the distillery start from £12 per person and include a tasting of two in-house whiskies.
What are some of your favourite things to do in Fort William?
Let us know in the comments below!
