The Area
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Fort Augustus
Please have a look at our history page to find out more about Fort Augustus
The Great Glen Way
A beautifully scenic 73 mile walk from Inverness to Fort William that follows the "Great Glen" - a glen (or valley) that runs from the East to the West coasts of the Scottish Highlands.
In the distant Geological past, the land either side of the Glen was separated by an ocean. Being reasonably level, it is one of the less strenuous of the long distance routes in the Highlands. the best views are walking north to south. If you have problems with accommodation elsewhere, Fort Augustus is linked by bus to most points along the route allowing you to stay more than one night at Bank House.
The Caledonian Canal
The Atlantic Ocean and the North Sea were joined when the Caledonian Canal was completed in 1822 having taken 17 years. It was now possible to sail the 60 miles from Loch Linnhe at Fort William, through Loch Lochy, Loch Oich and Loch Ness to reach Inverness. The five locks at Fort Augustus lift the water a total of 40ft.
Further Afield
The location of Bank House in Fort Augustus makes it an ideal spot for exploring much of the Highlands. Here are just a few ideas:
- Nevis Range: Britain's only mountain gondola will whisk you up the slopes of Aonach Mor, when you can enjoy the skiing in the winter or mountain biking in the summer, or simply go for a stroll and take in the views.
- Ben Nevis: Whilst in the Highlands you might want to take the opportunity to tackle Britain's highest mountain. It's over 4000ft high, but has a well built footpath to the summit.
- Inverness:
- Jacobite Steam Train: Often now better know as the "Hogwarts Express" after the lines appearance in the recent Harry Potter films, the West Coast line between Fort William and Mallaig take in some spectacular Highland scenery. There's always a regular train on the line if you don't manage to get booked onto the steam train.
- Urquhart Castle: With its classic location on the banks of Loch Ness, it's understandably a popular spot. Not far from Fort Augustus.
- Isle of Skye: Steeped in romantic history with some of the best scenery the Highlands of Scotland have to offer
