Day 6: Hiking the West Highland Way – From Rannoch Moor to Kinlochleven
Day 6 of my journey on the West Highland Way was an unforgettable adventure, weaving through Scotland’s iconic wilderness. This leg took me from the serene Rannoch Moor, across rugged landscapes, up the famous Devil’s Staircase, and finally down into the town of Kinlochleven. Along the way, I encountered breathtaking views, historical landmarks, and a true sense of the wild beauty that defines the Scottish Highlands.
The day began early at Bá Cottage, my campsite nestled in the tranquil surroundings of Rannoch Moor. The morning air was crisp, and as I packed up camp, I couldn’t help but take a moment to enjoy a warm cup of coffee, absorbing the calm before the day’s challenges. The vast expanse of the moor stretched out in all directions, and as the sun slowly rose, I knew the hike ahead would be special.
📍 Watch my morning at Rannoch Moor here:
Leaving Bá Cottage behind, I began the climb out of Rannoch Moor toward King’s House. The trail took me past iconic Scottish landscapes, including the valley where James Bond’s Skyfall was filmed and the quaint Wee White House, famously regarded as Scotland’s most photographed house. The cinematic beauty of these areas added an extra layer of magic to the hike, with rolling hills and wide valleys opening up at every turn.
📍 See the Skyfall Valley and Wee White House here:
As I approached the Devil’s Staircase, the excitement grew. This part of the hike is legendary on the West Highland Way for both its steep ascent and the sweeping vistas it offers at the top. The climb was tough but rewarding, with each step revealing more of the vast Highlands stretching out before me. The weather had turned, and strong winds whipped across the summit, but the panoramic views from the top were nothing short of exhilarating. There’s something about standing at the top of the Devil’s Staircase, looking down at the valleys below, that makes every moment of the climb worth it.
📍 Follow my climb up the Devil’s Staircase:
From the summit, the trail wrapped around Stob Mhic Mhartuin, a majestic peak that dominates the landscape. The descent into Kinlochleven was equally stunning, with expansive views that gave way to the charm of this small Scottish town. After a full day of hiking through rugged terrain and braving the elements, arriving in Kinlochleven felt like reaching an oasis. The town’s peaceful ambiance and friendly locals made for a perfect ending to a challenging yet rewarding day.
📍 Experience the final leg into Kinlochleven here:
This day on the West Highland Way was a true test of endurance, but it also showcased the immense beauty that Scotland has to offer. From the tranquil mornings at Rannoch Moor to the rugged ascent of the Devil’s Staircase, each moment was filled with awe-inspiring landscapes. If you’re an outdoor enthusiast or a fan of breathtaking hikes, this stretch of the trail is one you’ll never forget.
Keywords:
- West Highland Way Day 6
- Rannoch Moor to Kinlochleven
- Devil’s Staircase hike
- Skyfall Valley Scotland
- Wee White House Glencoe
- Kinlochleven hiking
- Scotland Highlands hiking
- Ben Nevis views
- Stob Mhic Mhartuin
- Scottish wilderness trail