The Highland Council has commenced a significant improvement project on the Great Glen Way that will remove more than 3km of the route from the public road.
The existing on‑road section leading to Grotaig, south of Drumnadrochit, has long been highlighted by walkers as less enjoyable and, at times, uncomfortable and unsafe due to traffic levels. Working in partnership with Bunloit Estate managers, Highlands Rewilding (external link), the Council has developed a new off‑road alternative that will provide a safer and more rewarding experience for users.
Chair of the Council’s Economy and Infrastructure Committee, Councillor Ken Gowans, said: “This project represents a major step forward in improving safety and enhancing the experience for everyone who enjoys the Great Glen Way. By moving this busy section off‑road, we are creating a more accessible and enjoyable route while working closely with partners to protect and celebrate the area’s outstanding natural environment.”
Preparatory work began in winter 2024, including surveys, negotiations, and engagement with landowners and the local community. Planning consent was granted last year, and £150,000 of funding has been secured through a joint project fund with Great Glen Way partners Forestry and Land Scotland and Scottish Canals. Bunloit Estate has been highly supportive throughout the process, enabling the creation of a route that will allow visitors to enjoy the Estate’s natural woodland and diverse habitats. Interpretation panels are expected to be installed at a later stage to enhance the visitor experience.
Alex Davies, Bunloit Estate Manager from Highlands Rewilding said: "We are delighted to welcome walkers on this new route through Bunloit estate. Taking the Great Glen Way off-road will undoubtably make the area safer for everyone, while opening up some beautiful views and guiding people through the mosaic of wildlife habitats we're restoring at Bunloit. Providing opportunities for access to local nature and all the benefits it brings is a priority for us at Highlands Rewilding, and it's been a pleasure to work with the Highland Council Countryside Rangers and Access Officers to achieve this."
Construction is being delivered by successful tenderer, Hitrak Ltd, who bring extensive expertise in upland path building. The project is scheduled for completion by the end of March 2026.
Stretching 118km (79 miles) from Fort William to Inverness, the Great Glen Way is managed and maintained by a dedicated team of officers and Rangers from The Highland Council. Recent surveys show that trail users contribute more than £3 million annually to local businesses, with the route also proving popular among residents.
More information about the Great Glen Way can be found here. https://www.highland.gov.uk/greatglenway/