With a forecast for more rain today, we sadly concluded that it did not make sense to take the Highland High Way route over Stob Ban as planned. (This proved wise, as the morning sun quickly disappeared and we never saw the tops of the Mamores.) We set off from Kinlochleven at 9:15. The route began with a steep climb out of the valley, but with expansive views over Loch Leven as our reward. It rained on and off all day (more on as the day progressed!), but fortunately the rain stopped just long enough for us to enjoy a picnic lunch with superb views toward Mam na Gualainn and Meall a' Chaorainn. The walking surface was predominantly rough, wide trails with shallow burns running across as a result of the extended rainfall. After our lunch break we entered a sequence of conifer plantations, where the path eventually became easier underfoot. The guidebook pointed out a good viewpoint to Ben Nevis from a clearing in the forest, but the mountain was covered in cloud and not clearly visible.

Once we could see signs of Fort William, it was a race to get down off the hill before the rain worsened. The last mile is along the road into Fort William, and the Way officially ends at Nevis Bridge just before the town centre. After stopping for photos, we were delighted to find our B&B, Distillery House, located right next to the bridge! Mandy, our hostess at the B&B, wasted no time bringing us pots of tea and shortbread--most welcome and exactly what we needed to wind down from the day's walk. (We highly recommend the Distillery House, which is very comfortable with excellent service.) We had read a recommendation about the Crannog Seafood Restaurant on the pier, and had booked a table in advance. The view over Loch Linnhe was wonderful, but the food even better! Helen's friend Jo had driven a long distance to join us, and we were able to celebrate in high style at the Crannog.

All those mountains we missed are calling ... we know we'll be back to the Highlands!
 

Enjoying a sunny morning, in front of the friendly Tailrace Inn

Misty view back to Kinlochleven

Lovely colors emerge along Loch Leven as sun filters through the mist

Beinn na Caillich

The rocky track passes between the Mamores north and, to the south,
Beinn na Caillich and Mam na Gualainn

(Several uncaptioned photos follow)

 

Cheeky sheep trying to steal our lunch!

Our "promised" view of Ben Nevis was obscured by clouds

Views through the forestry plantation

Heading into Glen Nevis, as we near Fort William in steady rain

Meall an t-Suidhe, part of the Nevis Range

We all made it! (three photos taken at Nevis Bridge in Fort William)

Bruce & Holly

Helen

Kristine & Phil

Our excellent B&B, Distillery House, was perfectly situated at the end of the walk!
(photo from their website)

Celebrating our accomplishment at the outstanding Crannog Seafood Restaurant
on the pier, with a view across Loch Linnhe

Admiring the view from the Crannog is a perfect way to end the walk!

Write to us:  (gowalk@pacbell.net)