Day 1: Hiking the West Highland Way – From Milngavie to Drymen
Day 1 of the West Highland Way marks the beginning of an unforgettable adventure through some of Scotland’s most scenic landscapes. Starting at the Milngavie Train Station, this journey took me through the serene lowlands, over rolling hills, and eventually into the rugged beauty of the Scottish Highlands. Along the way, we explored hidden gems like the Glengoyne Distillery and the charming town of Gartness, finishing the day with a peaceful sunset at Drymen Campground.
Setting off from Milngavie, the West Highland Way trailhead is clearly marked, welcoming hikers to the start of this iconic trek. The atmosphere was one of anticipation as I joined fellow adventurers, eager to begin. The first stretch of the trail offered a gentle introduction to the Scottish countryside, with lush greenery and meandering paths that hinted at the wilder landscapes ahead.
📍 Watch the hike’s introduction here:
A few miles in, I made a notable stop at the Glengoyne Distillery, a must-visit for whisky lovers. What makes this distillery unique is that its stills sit on the Highland side of the road, while its warehouses rest in the Lowlands. The distillery tour was a fascinating detour, offering a glimpse into the rich whisky-making tradition of Scotland. The smell of the distillation process, the friendly chatter of other visitors, and the surrounding Highland scenery made for an unforgettable stop. Plus, I got to meet some local sheep along the way, adding a bit of rustic charm to the experience.
📍 Explore Glengoyne Distillery and meet the locals here:
Continuing the hike, I passed through the quaint hamlet of Gartness, nestled along the banks of the Endrick River. The town’s rural charm made it feel like a step back in time. A highlight of this leg was discovering an “honesty box” – a self-service snack stop where hikers can grab a treat and leave a donation. As I wandered through Gartness, I met a fellow British hiker, and our conversation quickly turned to the politics of Scotland, England, and Switzerland, making for an engaging and thoughtful exchange as we walked through this beautiful landscape.
📍 Check out my exploration of Gartness here:
By the time I reached Drymen, the day was winding down. The Drymen Campground was the perfect place to end the day, with its peaceful atmosphere and well-kept facilities. As the sun began to set, casting golden light over the surrounding fields, I took a leisurely walk around the camp. The sunset painted the sky in soft hues, making for a serene conclusion to an exciting first day on the trail. It was a quiet moment to reflect on the journey so far and the adventures yet to come.
📍 Enjoy a sunset tour of Drymen Campground here:
Day 1 of the West Highland Way offered a perfect mix of adventure, culture, and relaxation. From exploring Scotland’s whisky heritage at Glengoyne Distillery to meeting new friends in the peaceful village of Gartness, this day set the tone for an incredible journey through Scotland’s wild and beautiful landscapes.
Keywords:
- West Highland Way Day 1
- Hiking in Scotland
- Glengoyne Distillery
- Milngavie to Drymen
- Gartness hike
- Scenic lowlands
- Scottish whisky trail
- Drymen Campground
- Exploring the Scottish Highlands
- Scotland’s outdoor adventures