Canoe Trips in Scotland
Fort William to Inverness: The Great Glen
The classic 60-mile canoe trip in Scotland, normally done west to east following the direction of the prevailing wind. It is commonly done in three days. The water can be rough and this is not a trip for absolute beginners. It is convenient to start at the top of Neptune’s Staircase where there is parking. There are campsites at Fort William, Fort Augustus, Rubha Ban on Loch Ness, and Inverness. Although discreet wild camping is possible throughout the length of the trip, this is becoming increasingly difficult because locals are keeping a look out, especially at the start of Loch Lochy, and reporting campers to the authorities. It is also possible to do the trip staying in Guest Houses. There is a good Fort William-Inverness bus service for retrieving your car. A British Waterways Scotland license (free) is needed for the trip, which can be ordered by post, or obtained from one of the sea locks at either end of the canal, where you can also get an all-important toilet/water key. Click here for an online map.
Setting off from the south end of Loch Ness. Day two of a Fort William to Inverness trip.
Loch Awe
A beautiful loch with several islands and castles. The quintessential Scottish canoeing experience.
Using the canoe as a shelter to sit out the squall seen coming down the loch
A sheet metal stove is efficient and environmentally sound
Canoe poles are handy for pitching the tarp, even when there are no trees around
Loch Shiel
Has a more remote feel.
The tarp as a shelter from the wind at a lunch-stop on the north side of the loch
Canoeing in Scotland
Loch Lomond
Although this is perhaps the most accessible and popular loch, it gives exceptionally good canoeing because of all the islands to explore and abundance of good camping spots, and it is still possible to find tranquility out of season.
Pulled in for an island lunch on Clairinch; April 2008
