Fort William Holiday Lodge
amazing whatever the weather
Rainy Days at HighwindsThe weather in Scotland can be unpredictable, but there is still an incredible amount to do in Highwinds even during the worst rainy days. Here are a few great ideas for you to do with your day!
waterfall
Steall Falls
Get your rain coats on and head down Glen Nevis to see the Waterfall in all its glory. The falls are really effected by how much rain has fallen recently so it’s best to see them after some heavy rain. For more information see our easy walks page.
harry potter magic
Jacobite Steam Train
All aboard the Hogwarts Express! This historic steam train starts in Fort William and passes over the world famous viaduct in Glenfinnan, before reaching its destination in Mallaig. It returns on the same route, providing an unforgettable journey through some spectacular scenery. The Jacobite Steam Train operates seasonally.
If you’re unable to get on the Jacobite you can simply get the standard train from Fort William to Mallaig and back, the views are the same!
If you’re unable to get on the Jacobite you can simply get the standard train from Fort William to Mallaig and back, the views are the same!
hollywood in the highlands
Highland Cinema
The Highland Cinema is an absolute gem in the heart of Fort William. Hollywood films on the day they’re released in a modern cinema in the middle of the Highlands, you can even watch a film in a Lotus. The cafe at the cinema is also worth a visit!
iconic
Eilean Donan Castle
This is one of the most iconic sights in Scotland. The original castle was built in the 13th century and stood guard over the lands of Kintail. It has been used as a location in many films including the James Bond film, The World is Not Enough. If you’re looking for a place to eat close by I can recommend the charming Pizza Jo which looks straight out of Alice in Wonderland. (Pizza Jo’s is open seasonally.)
historic highlands
West Highland Museum
This incredibly well put together museum is close by in Fort William. It is the oldest museum in the Highlands and was founded in 1922. The museum exhibits the history and archaeology of the Western Highlands.
whiskey
Ben Nevis Distillery
The Ben Nevis Distillery is just down the road from Highwinds which is handy if you’re keen to sample what they have to offer! Founded by John ‘Long John’ Macdonald in 1825, it is one of the oldest licensed distilleries in Scotland.
indoor climbing
3 Wise Monkeys Climbing
The 3 Monkeys Climbing wall is in the heart of Fort William. It’s in an old converted church and has a bouldering room, a roped climbing room, a cafe and a good seating area at the top of the tower where you can watch all the bouldering action. If climbing isn’t your thing it’s still well worth a visit just for the cafe! There’s a few parking spots right by the old church if not there is ample parking close by down at the west end car park.
nevis centre
Bowling
The Nevis Centre at Fort William has something for the whole family including bowling, softplay, roller skating, table tennis and badminton.
swimming, squash & gym
Lochaber Leisure Centre
If you fancy a dip (that doesn’t involve a loch) the Lochaber Leisure Centre in Fort William has a 25 metre pool. The centre also has a gym (including brand new strength and conditioning area), squash courts, hydrotherapy pool and fitness classes.
whiskey
Dalwhinnie Distillery
Located in the Cairngorms the Dalwhinnie Distillery offers another great whiskey tour and is only an hours drive away. The tour guides are great and you’ll learn a lot about the process of making whiskey.
sealife
Loch Linnhe Cruise
Go for a tour on the Loch Linnhe cruise where you can see Seals, Eagles and get an incredible view of Ben Nevis while staying nice and dry inside the boat!
hide out in highwinds
Watch the Weather Roll In
With great views over the mountains and fields, Highwinds is an incredible place to simply watch the world go by. We also have a good selection of books to choose from and free wifi to plot your next adventure when the weather cooperates!
