There are countless other variations on the above and each should plan according to their own, or their groups, abilities. If you are walking with a group you should plan your route to suit the least fit group member. Please remember that one unfit member trying to keep up with the rest of the group will not only have a bad experience themselves, but may also spoil the experience for the other group members. The difficulty for many is not walking fourteen miles in one day but in having the stamina and (stubborn???) perseverance to walk fourteen miles for seven consecutive days – and carrying a heavy rucsac. As mentioned earlier we have seen some sorry sights hobbling into Tyndrum, but with a wee bit of preparation you needn’t be one of them. The above route breaks the Way down into manageable days and provided you prepare properly in advance the distances suggested should be quite easily achievable (even by non-regular walkers).

The other factors which causes people to give up on the walk is firstly carrying too much luggage and secondly the wonderful (???) Scottish weather. To make things easier on the rucsac carrying front see West Highland Way luggage carrier services. As regards the weather that’s a bit more difficult. The Way is mostly on the West, therefore the wetter, side of the country, and although some people have walked all the way from Milngavie to Fort William in glorious sunshine, most are not so fortunate. A wee bit rain never harmed anyone you may think, but after several hours walking, wet boots and wet socks are a major cause of blisters. Try carrying a couple of extra pairs of dry socks (and some talcum powder) with you – and not to be a total pessimist regarding weather it is also worth taking along some sun block. Fourteen miles (or twenty Kilometres in European currency) takes a good few hours so don’t get too baked along the way.

Finally the West Highland Way attracts thousands of people every year and many new friendships are born along the way. If you are the sociable type start your walk on a Saturday, most people do and you will undoubtedly make a few new friends along the way and in the inevitable pub afterwards. If you prefer your own company keep your head down or start midweek. You will still see a few faces along the way but most will be well ahead or well behind you.