Great Glen Way to get major upgrade with new off-road section

The Highland Council has begun a major improvement project on a famous Scottish hiking trail, removing over 3km of the route from public roads.

The current on-road section of the Great Glen Way, leading to Grotaig, south of Drumnadrochit, has been criticized by walkers as uncomfortable and unsafe due to traffic.

Stretching 118 km (79 miles) from Fort William to Inverness, the Great Glen Way is managed by Highland Council officers and Rangers.

The council, working with Bunloit Estate managers and Highlands Rewilding, has developed a new off-road alternative designed to provide a safer and more enjoyable experience for hikers.

Councillor Ken Gowans, Chair of the Council’s Economy and Infrastructure Committee, said: “By moving this busy section off-road, we are creating a more accessible and enjoyable route while protecting and celebrating the area’s outstanding natural environment.”

“This project represents a major step forward in improving safety and enhancing the experience for everyone who enjoys the Great Glen Way.”

Preparatory work began in winter 2024, including surveys, landowner negotiations, and community engagement.

Planning consent was granted last year, and £150,000 in funding has been secured through a joint project fund with Forestry and Land Scotland and Scottish Canals.

Bunloit Estate has supported the project, enabling walkers to enjoy its woodland and wildlife habitats. Interpretation panels are planned to further enhance the visitor experience.

Alex Davies, Bunloit Estate Manager at Highlands Rewilding, said: “We are delighted to welcome walkers on this new route through Bunloit estate.

“Taking the Great Glen Way off-road will undoubtably make the area safer for everyone, while opening up some beautiful views and guiding people through the mosaic of wildlife habitats we’re restoring at Bunloit.

“Providing opportunities for access to local nature and all the benefits it brings is a priority for us at Highlands Rewilding, and it’s been a pleasure to work with the Highland Council Countryside Rangers and Access Officers to achieve this.”

Construction is being carried out by Hitrak Ltd, specialists in upland path building, with completion expected by the end of March 2026.