Heather, Ferns, Flowers, and Mountains
Date: A very nice hike from Altnafeadh to Kinlochleven along the Devil’s Staircase and West Highland Way. The heather was amazing. Just what I thought Scottish highlands should look like.
Day 3: Glen Coe
Today we set out on foot to explore the breathtaking Glen Coe, scene of a historic massacre of the MacDonald clan in 1692. Walking along the Devil’s Staircase—part of the West Highland Way—climbing a series of switchbacks to a mountain pass, where we’ll take in magnificent views of the West Highlands. This evening gather at the hotel for a lecture from the National Geographic Expert.
(9 6 miles hiking, 5-6 hours)
Overnight: Kingshouse Hotel (B, L, D)
And here is the full itinerary from National Geographic.
Marg’s Notes: Slept in a bit as breakfast wasn’t until 7:30. Short bus ride to our Devil’s Staircase hike along the Highland Way. I decided to use my poles again. We went up to start. Fairly gradual climb. We got rained on! Kind of off & on. Dried out pretty well after each shower. More beautiful scenery. The leaders are very knowledgeable about plants, geography & history. Very interesting. It was rainy & chilly when we got to the top, so ate lunch closer to the end of our hike. It was supposedly 9 miles, but I think really less than 8. Back to the Hotel for a shower. At 3:45 we had a lecture by our leader Teresa about Scottish history & kilts. Very informative. Had drinks too! I had G&T. Rod had a local IPA again. We are in our room now. Rod is asleep & I am having tea while I write. Dinner @ 7:00.
Had venison for dinner…very good!
Created: 2023