A new improved section of the Great Glen Way is now open, offering walkers, wheelers and visitors a safer and more scenic way to experience this popular trail.
The Highland Council has completed work on over 3km of the route, moving it away from the public road and onto a new off‑road path. The changes mean a safer, more relaxing route with better access to nature.
Economy and Infrastructure Committee Chair, Councillor Ken Gowans, said: “The new route has been created in partnership with The Highland Council, Bunloit Estate managers and Highlands Rewilding. Together, we have have developed a path that not only improves safety but also lets people explore woodland, wildlife and views that were not part of the trail before. By taking the route off road, it is now more accessible and much more enjoyable for people of all ages and abilities.
“Spending time outdoors is proven to support both mental wellbeing and physical health, and this new section gives people more opportunities to enjoy fresh air, stay active and connect with the natural environment at their own pace.
“It also helps us protect and showcase the area’s natural beauty. This has only been achieved through collaborative working and the Council’s ongoing commitment to improving active ways to experience the benefits of being outdoors and immersed in the beautiful Highland scenery.”
The project involved detailed planning work, including surveys, discussions with landowners and engagement with the local community. Planning permission was granted last year, and £150,000 of funding was secured through a joint project fund with Great Glen Way partners.
Bunloit Estate supported the project throughout, helping to create a new and improved part of the route that allows visitors to experience its natural woodland and diverse habitats up close. New interpretation panels are planned to share more information about the landscape and wildlife along the way.
The Great Glen Way stretches 118km (79 miles) from Fort William to Inverness and is cared for by a dedicated team from The Highland Council. It is a valuable local asset, with around 10,000 people walking it from end to end each year, bringing in more than £3 million each year for local businesses and providing a popular outdoor space for residents and visitors alike.
The construction work was carried out by Hitrak Ltd, specialists in upland path building, ensuring the new route is sensitive to the local environment, durable and built to a high standard.
What this means for users:
- Safer travel away from busy roads.
- A more peaceful and scenic experience.
- Greater access to nature and wildlife.
- Continued support for local communities and businesses.
People are encouraged to come and enjoy the upgraded section as part of their journey along the Great Glen Way.
The new path begins with a climb out of Drumnadrochit and leads through young native woodland, where 25,000 trees have been planted from local seeds. It then goes into older pine forest before reaching Bunloit’s open peatland. From here, there are wide views to the south and west. The route continues through heath and growing woodland, where you might see or hear birds like curlew, snipe, crossbills and crested tits, as well as red squirrels and pine martens if you’re lucky. Finally, the path passes a peatland restoration area and a natural peat bog, before joining the road near the far end of the Bunloit estate.
More information about the Great Glen Way can be accessed on the Great Glen Way website.