Wild Scotland: a trek from Glenfinnan to Inverie
Why choose a trek in Knoydart, Scotland?
A Knoydart trek, Scotland allows you to explore one of the wildest regions of the Highlands. Over the course of eight days, you’ll travel from Edinburgh by public transport. You’ll then set off on a walking adventure between Glenfinnan and Inverie.
Mountains, remote valleys, lochs and isolated mountain huts punctuate this journey. As a result, you’ll discover a Scotland that’s very different from the traditional tourist routes.
From Edinburgh, head first to Glenfinnan. Then, travel through the wild landscapes of Knoydart to Inverie. Finally, make your way to Mallaig before returning to the capital. By train and ferry, you’ll travel without a car throughout the stay.
Edinburgh, the first stop on your adventure
Your trip begins in Edinburgh, the historic capital of Scotland.
Start by strolling along the Royal Mile. Next, explore Victoria Street, Grassmarket and the narrow streets of the Old Town.
Depending on your arrival time, you might also want to visit Calton Hill. From there, you’ll be treated to a superb panoramic view of the capital.
This first day gives you the chance to explore Edinburgh at your own pace. The following day, you’ll head for the Highlands.
If you’d like to discover other itineraries, you can also find all our tailor-made holidays in Scotland :
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Glenfinnan and the West Highland Line
The next day, leave Edinburgh by train and head for Glenfinnan.
Gradually, the urban landscapes fade from view. The mountains and wide-open spaces of the Highlands then take their place.
On arrival, discover the famous Glenfinnan Viaduct. He is best known for his appearances in the Harry Potter films.
Next, a short walk takes you up to the top, where you can admire the viaduct from above. You can also make your way to the shores of Loch Shiel and visit the Glenfinnan Monument.
Finally, Glenfinnan marks the starting point of your long trek on foot to Knoydart.
Knoydart Trek, Scotland: a hike in the heart of the Highlands
From Glenfinnan, a multi-day adventure through the heart of the Highlands begins.
First of all, join A’ Chuil, deep in the mountains. This first stage is around 19 kilometres long. You’ll pass through valleys, cross rivers and trek through wild landscapes before reaching your mountain hut.
The next day, continue your walk towards Sourlies. The environment then becomes even more isolated.
The paths may be damp and uneven. However, the scenery becomes increasingly spectacular.
Finally, you reach Sourlies Bothy, overlooking Loch Nevis. This arrival is one of the highlights of the trip.
This Knoydart trek, Scotland It is therefore aimed at fans of backpacking. Above all, it allows you to get away from the roads and the most popular attractions.
Knoydart, one of Scotland’s wildest regions
Your adventure continues across the peninsula of Knoydart.
This region is known for its remoteness and wildness. Indeed, Inverie is not connected to the main British road network.
There are two main ways to reach the village. You can cross the mountains on foot or travel by boat from Mallaig.
As such, Knoydart offers a sense of seclusion that has become rare in Britain. This distinctive feature contributes greatly to the region’s charm.
Here, you’ll discover another side to Scotland. The main tourist routes give way to mountains, lochs and vast expanses of wilderness.
Inverie, at the end of the road
After three days’ hiking, you’ll finally reach Inverie.
This arrival marks an important moment in your Knoydart trek, Scotland. Indeed, it marks the end of your long journey on foot.
Situated on the shores of Loch Nevis, Inverie enjoys an exceptional setting.
So why not make the most of your evening to relax? You’ll also be able to enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of the village after several days of hiking.
The next morning, take one last look at the scenery of Knoydart. Then make your way to the jetty at Inverie to continue your journey.
From Knoydart to Mallaig by sea
Leave Inverie by ferry and cross Loch Nevis to reach Mallaig.
This crossing offers a new perspective on the mountains. It will give you the chance to see, from the sea, the landscapes you have travelled through over the past few days.
When you arrive, explore Mallaig. This small fishing port is situated on the west coast of Scotland.
Next, take some time to have a stroll around the harbour. This more leisurely activity gives you a chance to recover after several days of hiking.
The West Highland Line, one of Scotland’s most scenic train journeys
From Mallaig, catch the train back to Edinburgh.
This day spent travelling is an integral part of the trip. In fact, you’ll be travelling on the famous West Highland Line.
This railway line passes through some of the most beautiful scenery in the west of Scotland. The route takes in Glenfinnan, Fort William and the Highlands, amongst other places.
What’s more, you’ll have the chance to cross the Glenfinnan Viaduct by train. This will give you a fresh perspective on a place you first visited at the start of your adventure.
Finally, continue your journey to Edinburgh for your last night in Scotland.
A completely car-free trip to Scotland
This tour has been designed to offer a different way of discovering Scotland.
Since your arrival in Edinburgh, all journeys have been made by train, on public transport, by ferry or on foot.
This means you can enjoy the scenery to the full without having to worry about driving. What’s more, you avoid the hassles associated with hiring a car.
This mode of transport is particularly well suited to this itinerary. Indeed, the train takes you to Glenfinnan and the Highlands. From there, the ferry provides a natural link between Inverie and Mallaig.
In this way, every mode of transport becomes an integral part of the experience.
An adventure for hiking enthusiasts
This crossing is aimed at travellers who have a good physical fitness. Previous experience of backpacking is also recommended.
The stages between Glenfinnan and Inverie involve several hours’ walking each day. Furthermore, the terrain can be wet, uneven and at times challenging.
Isolation also makes the journey more difficult. Indeed, opportunities to restock supplies remain extremely limited for several days.
It is therefore essential to ensure you have the right equipment. Thorough preparation is also necessary before setting out on the crossing.
However, it is precisely this isolation that makes the trip so special. It allows you to experience a real adventure in the heart of the Highlands.
A journey into the wilds of Scotland
This Knoydart trek, Scotland This eight-day tour is aimed at travellers who wish to venture off the beaten track.
The journey begins in the historic streets of Edinburgh. From there, the West Highland Line takes you gradually into the Highlands.
Next comes the long journey between Glenfinnan, A’ Chuil, Sourlies and Inverie. Finally, a ferry takes you to Mallaig before you head back to Edinburgh.
And so, every day reveals a new side to Scotland.
At Brightside Travel, we design tailor-made holidays in Scotland tailored to your level and pace. We also select the various stages to create a holiday that suits your preferences.
To help you plan your trip, please also visit the official VisitScotland website:
VisitScotland – the official website for tourism in Scotland
Wild Scotland: trek from Glenfinnan to Inverie: travel itinerary
Arrival in Edinburgh and exploring the capital
On arrival at Edinburgh Airport, take the tram or bus into the city centre.
Settle into your accommodation before setting off to explore the historic centre of the Scottish capital.
Start at the Royal Mile, then head to Victoria Street and Grassmarket. After that, lose yourself in the narrow streets of the Old Town.
Depending on your arrival time, you may also be able to visit Calton Hill. From the top, enjoy a superb panoramic view of Edinburgh.
Restaurant recommendations
Howies
The Devil’s Advocate
Bertie’s Proper Fish & Chips
Overnight in Edinburgh.
Edinburgh – Glenfinnan: by train to the Highlands
Leave Edinburgh by train and head for Glenfinnan.
As the journey progresses, the urban landscapes gradually fade from view. The mountains, lochs and wide-open spaces of the Highlands then take their place.
On arrival, set off to explore the famous Glenfinnan Viaduct.
Glenfinnan Viaduct Walk
Distance: approximately 4 km
Duration: approximately 1 to 2 hours
Elevation gain: approximately +130 m
Difficulty: easy
This short walk offers the chance to admire the viaduct from several vantage points.
Then carry on to the Glenfinnan Monument and the shores of Loch Shiel.
At the end of the day, pack your kit and provisions for the three days of hiking ahead.
Overnight stay in Glenfinnan.
Glenfinnan – A’ Chuil: a first taste of the wild Highlands
Distance: approximately 18.7 km
Duration: approximately 5 to 6½ hours
Elevation gain: approximately +650 m
Level: difficult
Today marks the start of your grand journey to Knoydart.
From Glenfinnan, you gradually leave the last inhabited areas behind. The path then winds its way into the heart of Glenfinnan.
You’ll find yourself amidst mountains, torrents and vast, remote valleys.
The terrain gradually becomes wilder. Furthermore, some sections may be damp or muddy, depending on the weather conditions.
After several hours’ walk, head to A’ Chuil Bothy.
That first night in the heart of the Highlands offers a real sense of isolation.
Overnight stay at A’ Chuil Bothy or camping nearby.
A’ Chuil – Sourlies: at the heart of the Scottish wilderness
Distance: approximately 11 to 15 km
Duration: approximately 5 to 7 hours
Elevation gain: varies depending on the route chosen
Level: difficult
Continue your adventure westwards.
This day takes you even deeper into the Highlands. Here, the roads and villages have completely disappeared.
You’ll be walking along paths that are sometimes damp and uneven. However, the scenery becomes increasingly spectacular as you approach Loch Nevis.
At the end of the day, head to Sourlies Bothy.
Situated on the shores of the loch and surrounded by mountains, this mountain hut enjoys an exceptional setting.
The arrival in Sourlies is one of the highlights of the crossing.
Overnight stay at Sourlies Bothy or camping nearby.
Sourlies – Inverie: the final stretch across Knoydart
Distance: approximately 14 to 16 km
Duration: approximately 6 to 8 hours
Approximate elevation gain: around +500 to +700 m
Level: very difficult
The last big day of hiking.
Leave Sourlies and continue your journey across the wild Knoydart Peninsula.
The terrain remains challenging. You’ll pass through secluded valleys, wetlands and several hills before beginning your descent towards Inverie.
After three days in the heart of the Highlands, the first glimpses of the village gradually signal the end of your journey.
Finally, head to Inverie, situated on the shores of Loch Nevis.
This arrival is particularly symbolic. As Inverie is not connected to the main road network, you have reached the village solely by hiking through the mountains.
Make the most of your evening to relax after this wonderful adventure.
Overnight stay in Inverie.
Inverie and the ferry crossing to Mallaig
After several days of hiking, enjoy a much quieter morning.
Discover Inverie and take a stroll along the shores of Loch Nevis.
Do also take the time to soak up the unique atmosphere of Knoydart before heading to the village’s small jetty.
Next, board the ferry to Mallaig.
Journey time: approximately 30 to 45 minutes
From the boat, take one last look at the Knoydart mountains from Loch Nevis.
On arrival, walk to your accommodation and explore Mallaig.
This little harbour on the west coast makes for a pleasant stopover after several days spent in the mountains.
Restaurant recommendations
The Chlachain Inn
The Steam Inn
The Cabin
Overnight stay in Mallaig.
Mallaig – Edinburgh: the return journey via the spectacular West Highland Line
Leave Mallaig by train and travel to Edinburgh.
This day out travelling is a real experience in its own right.
You’ll be travelling along the famous West Highland Line, considered one of the most scenic railway lines in the UK.
The train travels through the wild landscapes of the west coast before reaching Glenfinnan and then Fort William.
In particular, you’ll cross the Glenfinnan Viaduct whilst on board the train.
You can then continue your journey through the Highlands before gradually returning to the landscapes of central Scotland.
On arrival in Edinburgh, make your way to your hotel by public transport or on foot.
Restaurant recommendations
Dishoom
Howies
The Scran & Scallie
Overnight in Edinburgh.
Latest discoveries in Edinburgh and departure
Make the most of your final few hours in the Scottish capital.
Depending on your flight timetable, why not explore Dean Village and Stockbridge? You could also take a stroll through Princes Street Gardens or pop back to the Royal Mile one last time.
Next, make your way to Edinburgh Airport by tram or bus.
End of the journey.
We hope this adventure has allowed you to discover Scotland at its most untamed. From Edinburgh to Glenfinnan, the remote bothies of the Highlands, Knoydart, Inverie, Mallaig and the West Highland Line, this trip offers a unique immersion in the heart of the country’s most unspoilt landscapes.
- 7 nights as per the itinerary, in selected accommodation, bothies or bivouacs depending on the package chosen
- Breakfasts at the accommodation, where provided
- Train tickets from Edinburgh to Glenfinnan
- Ferry crossing from Inverie to Mallaig
- Train tickets from Mallaig to Edinburgh
- Brightside Travel Personalised Travel Journal
- Detailed day-by-day itinerary
- Detailed information on the hiking stages: distances, duration, elevation gain and difficulty levels
- Map of the trek and practical information
- Advice on the equipment you’ll need
- A selection of restaurants and top spots
- Practical tips for travelling in Scotland without a car
- Brightside Travel support before and during your stay
- Return flights to Edinburgh
- Transport between Edinburgh Airport and the city centre
- Lunches, dinners and drinks
- Essential provisions for days out walking
- Hiking and camping equipment
- A sleeping bag and the essential kit for nights in a bothy
- Any transfer or storage of main luggage during the trek
- Optional activities and tours
- Personal expenses
- Travel, cancellation and hiking insurance
- Any tourist taxes