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Great Glen Way improvements
Highland Council begins major upgrade to Great Glen Way
A major improvement project is now underway on the Great Glen Way, with The Highland Council beginning work to divert more than 3km of the long‑distance trail away from a public road near Grotaig, south of Drumnadrochit.
The existing on‑road stretch has been a longstanding concern for walkers, who have described it as less enjoyable and, at times, unsafe due to traffic. In partnership with Bunloit Estate managers, Highlands Rewilding, the Council has developed a new off‑road alternative designed to offer a safer and more scenic experience.
Councillor Ken Gowans, Chair of the Council’s Economy and Infrastructure Committee, said the project marks “a major step forward in improving safety and enhancing the experience for everyone who enjoys the Great Glen Way,” adding that the new route will be “more accessible and enjoyable” while supporting the area’s natural environment.
Preparatory work began in winter 2024, including surveys, landowner engagement, and community consultation. Planning consent was granted last year, and £150,000 has been secured through a joint fund with Forestry and Land Scotland and Scottish Canals. Bunloit Estate has played a key role in enabling the new route, which will guide visitors through native woodland and diverse habitats. Interpretation panels are planned for installation at a later stage.
Alex Davies, Bunloit Estate Manager from 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 March 2026.
The Great Glen Way stretches 118km (79 miles) from Fort William to Inverness and is maintained by a dedicated team from The Highland Council. Recent surveys indicate that trail users contribute more than £3 million annually to local businesses, underlining the route’s importance to both visitors and residents.
More information about the Great Glen Way can be found here. https://www.highland.gov.uk/greatglenway/
