I have a last minute invite to hike Ben Nevis (Scotland) with a flight attendant friend. Has anyone hiked it? Where did you stay and what is the best city to fly into? I assume I would need to fly into a larger airport then take a train to the town.
I'm considering a short stop over in France on the way back maybe Paris. I was just in Paris so it would be mostly for eating and some shopping. I haven't been to Scotland so any tips are very much appreciated. I live in Colorado and am a fairly experienced hiker, at least I'm accustomed to higher elevations.
Posted by
Pensacola
9110 posts
Fort William is the closest town. The place is full of hostels and b&b's. Fly into either Edinburgh or Glasgow, they're both within a three hour drive, Glasgow might be a tad quicker. Beats me on public transportation, but the hikes start out at the visitor center, maybe there's a bus. Up and down is five hours if you're in shape and use the easy route. The weather changes fast, don't get caught unprepared. If it's clouded in, you can't see squat, otherwise the views a pretty good from the summit.
Posted by
San Diego, CA, USA
237 posts
Ben Nevis is a large hump with an "easy" walking route up the side to its maximum height of just under 4,500 feet. It has serious climbing ascents, however, and the weather is not to be underestimated with most summer casualties coming from people who see the top and decide to walk up unprepared for sudden clouds, fog or temperature drops. Compared to Colorado mountains Ben Nevis doesn't seem like much but take it seriously from an clothing and navigation preparation standpoint. the Highlands are their own thing to be experienced and enjoyed and I would recommend seeing some of the other sights around the area as well. Very different than Colorado (I have some experience in the San Juans) especially in vert but interesting in its own way. There's an easy train from either Edinburgh or Glasgow to Fort William. (In fact the Edinburgh train changes in Glasgow.) Edinburgh is a great town and worth checking out. Also many outdoor stores in Edinburgh for supplies but that's true for Fort William as well since that's why most people are there. The logistics of getting to and from Paris are probably more trouble than they're worth IMHO - maybe consider London for art and shopping. Certainly an easier train ride, but if not consider flying from Edinburgh there are 4 or 5 s day. =Tod
Posted by
New York City, NY, USA
5678 posts
I had a friend who hiked who was not in good shape. It did take her most of the day, but it was wonderful and she enjoyed it. And, yes, take the train to Fort William. If you've not been to Scotland before and want some good food, think about stopping off in Edinburgh on the way home. There are some excellent restaurants. And a google search popped up this information that I am completely ready to explore on my next trip. Foodie Meet up. Food Tour: I've been to some of these places and the scenery is spectacular on top of the good food. The seafood in Scotland is wonderful. But the beef and lamb are good as well of course. And don't forget the cheese! If you need some specific restaurant recommendations, I can make them. But I think that some of the best are ones I've yet to try. Pam