Fort William & Highlands

Home of Ben Nevis, and often described as the Outdoor Capital of the UK, Fort William and its cinematic scenery is a true paradise for bikers.

Glenfinnan Monument, Highlands, Scotland.

Overview

Home of Ben Nevis, and often described as the Outdoor Capital of the UK, Fort William and its cinematic scenery is a true paradise for adventurers, explorers, climbers, hikers and bikers. 

It’s got everything from the northern lights to sandy beaches, but its epic munros and mountains will be the stars of the show at the 2023 UCI Cycling World Championships.

Scotland's most iconic mountain

In a nation packed full of majestic hills, munros and mountains, one stands taller than the rest: Ben Nevis. Bagging ‘the Ben’ is a must for any hiker.

There are multiple ways around (and up) the mountain on offer, ranging from moderate ascents to technical climbs. But whatever route you choose, remember to always be prepared: consult a detailed weather forecast, local guides and ensure you have proper equipment, supplies and navigation aids.

If you make it to the summit and you get a clear day, you’ll be rewarded with incredible 360° panoramic vistas which can stretch as far as Northern Ireland.

Ben Nevis, Highlands, Scotland.
Ben Nevis, Highlands, Scotland.

Walk the Great Glen Way

You don’t have to walk the whole 117km from Fort William to Inverness to enjoy the many natural wonders along the Great Glen Way.

It’s all stunning, but if you’re after the highlights of the highlights, look up Loch Lochy, Loch Oich, forests surrounding Loch Ness and also along the towpath of the Caledonian Canal.

Gairlochy, Laggan, Fort Augustus, Invermoriston and Drumnadrochit are great places to start from.

Caledonian Canal at Fort Augustus where it joins Loch Ness.
Caledonian Canal at Fort Augustus where it joins Loch Ness.

Explore the Night Sky

There will be hundreds of stars on show at the 2023 UCI Cycling World Champs. There’s 7,000 more if you look up at night. 

Blessed with some of Scotland’s darkest skies, the wilderness area around Fort William is a perfect spot for stargazing and getting perspective on your place in the universe. No telescope needed.

Stargazing at Loch Cluanie.
Stargazing at Loch Cluanie.

Bring Your Bike (or rent one!)

With spectacular single track trails, world class downhill, miles of meandering forest routes, canal paths and wilderness routes to discover, the mountain biking and cycling is second to none.

The Road to the Isles and its awe-inspiring sunsets over the Isles of Rum, Eigg, Muck, Canna and Skye are not to be missed.

Get a taste for the Highlands...

Cycling along a path at Laggan Locks
The UCI Mountain Bike Downhill World Cup at Fort William
The Jacobite Steam Train going to Mallaig
Three Sisters, Glencoe
Highland Cinema, Fort William

Plan Your Visit

Get an itinerary together, gear up and explore everything in Fort William and the Highlands.

Plan your perfect trip at VisitScotland and gather inspiration at Outdoor Capital.

Fun Facts!

Fort William is the mecca of mountain biking, having hosted every annual UCI MTB World Cup since 2003.

Ben Nevis is 1345m tall, making it Britain’s tallest mountain. There’s a cycle route that circumnavigates it which is well worth investigating.

The Great Glen Way is another iconic route spanning 73km from Fort William to Inverness.

Upcoming events in this region