"The best hillwalking and climbing in the... " a Fort William Travel Page by NEILHALLIDYA

Given good weather conditions this area of Scotland provides, in my opinion, some of the finest mountain scenery in the world. The town of Fort William provides an excellent access point.

While these mountains are relatively small in global terms (around 1000 metres) they tend to rise very quickly from sea level. This gives a sense of grandeur.

This sense is heightened by the presence of huge clear lochs (lakes).

If you are lucky enough to visit this area on a cold, clear, winters day with the mountains covered in snow, reflecting clearly in a crystal clear loch, as you watch deer and other wildlife, you will know exactly what I mean.

And midges?.....in season there is no escape from these small persistent creature (generally June to late August).

I am afraid my access to a scanner is very limited but photos will follow. (eventually)

Ben Nevis is the highest mountain in the United Kingdom and one of the main attractions in this area of Scotland.

It stands at 1344 metres, tiny in comparison with the great mountain ranges of the world, but demands respect from both hillwalkers and climbers.

The combination of its Northerly latitude and the fact that it is on the western coast of Scotland leads to pretty attroacious weather conditions.

Even in summer, you can experience snow showers and hail storms on the summit. But treated with respect the normal tourist route is achievable for any active fit person. Given clear weather the views from the summit are amazing.

Its a fair while since I went up the Tourist track but a good account of recent visit can be found on:-

Amara Fort William (link)

In winter (October to May) do not venture above the snow line unless you know what you are doing and are well equipted. "The Ben" possess a fairly broad plateau on its summit with very steep cliffs to its Northern and westerly side. In blizzard conditions this is a navigational nightmare.

Rather ironically, in winter the bad weather conditions can lead to fantastic ice climbing conditions. My own experiences of ice climbing tend to be following more experienced, and braver, friends in an undignified manner.

If you are interested in learning about winter mountaineering, a more sensible route, is to approach the number of reputable mountain guides in Fort William. I would seriously recommend Alan Kimbers West Coast mountain guides. I have a number of friends who have used his services on winter mountaineering/winter walking and ice climbing courses.

Alan Kimbers(link)

A webcam is convienantly situated with views of the North Face. This is usefull for viewing current weather and snow conditions.

Ben Nevis Web Cam (link)

In winter opportunities to ski and/or snow board exist on Anoach Mor and in Glencoe (less reliable).

Nevis Range (link)

Aside from Ben Nevis, the area around Fort William contains some amazing walking and scrambling (where you need to use your hands but not full rock climbing) opportunities.

If you can avoid those Midges, for the lover of the outdoors, it is a great area of the country to explore.

If you get a clear day and you are feeling less energetic you could venture to Anoach Mor where you can take the Nevis Range Gondala to a height of about 600 metres. The views are excellent.

Fort William contains several pleasant pubs and restaurants to while your time away if the Scottish weather is working its worst.

I have had some good times in this area. If you think I can be of any help please feel free to E mail me.