Fort William Holiday Lodge
Discover the Magic Beyond
Fantastic Day Trips from Fort WilliamFort William, nestled amidst the majestic Highland scenery, provides an ideal launchpad for exploring some of Scotland’s most captivating destinations. We’ve curated a selection of truly great day trips from Fort William, all reachable within a three-hour drive (one way), allowing you to immerse yourself in the diverse beauty and history of the region in a single, fulfilling day. If you’re looking for adventures closer to your base, our ‘Things to Do‘ page offers plenty of exciting options right around Fort William.
table of contents
Day Trips from Fort William
The Dramatic Majesty of Skye
Exploring the Quiraing
A journey to the Isle of Skye is undoubtedly a highlight among day trips from Fort William, promising a full and unforgettable experience.
While Skye boasts the iconic Cuillin mountain range, we’ll focus here on the unique and breathtaking landscape of the Quiraing.
Located on the Trotternish peninsula, the Quiraing is a dramatic landslip featuring towering cliffs, jagged pinnacles, and hidden plateaus that offer unparalleled photographic opportunities.
Its stunning scenery has served as a backdrop for numerous films, a testament to its otherworldly beauty. We highly recommend undertaking the popular four-mile circuit walk, which provides incredible perspectives of iconic formations such as the Prison, the Needle, and offers distant views of the Old Man of Storr.
Be prepared for varied terrain and ever-changing vistas on this remarkable day trip from Fort William.
While Skye boasts the iconic Cuillin mountain range, we’ll focus here on the unique and breathtaking landscape of the Quiraing.
Located on the Trotternish peninsula, the Quiraing is a dramatic landslip featuring towering cliffs, jagged pinnacles, and hidden plateaus that offer unparalleled photographic opportunities.
Its stunning scenery has served as a backdrop for numerous films, a testament to its otherworldly beauty. We highly recommend undertaking the popular four-mile circuit walk, which provides incredible perspectives of iconic formations such as the Prison, the Needle, and offers distant views of the Old Man of Storr.
Be prepared for varied terrain and ever-changing vistas on this remarkable day trip from Fort William.
The Enchanting Fairy Pools of Glen Brittle
Fairy Pools
Located at the foot of the dramatic Black Cuillin mountains near Glenbrittle on the Isle of Skye (making it combinable with a Skye trip, or a dedicated shorter trip), the
Fairy Pools are a magical destination for a day trip from Fort William. These beautiful, crystal-clear blue pools on the River Brittle have gained worldwide fame, enticing visitors with their ethereal beauty.
For those less inclined to take a dip, the enchanting Fairy Pools provide countless opportunities for stunning photographs.
The dramatic backdrop of the Cuillin mountains against the vibrant blue of the pools creates a truly unforgettable scene, making this a highly recommended day trip from Fort William.
Fairy Pools are a magical destination for a day trip from Fort William. These beautiful, crystal-clear blue pools on the River Brittle have gained worldwide fame, enticing visitors with their ethereal beauty.
For those less inclined to take a dip, the enchanting Fairy Pools provide countless opportunities for stunning photographs.
The dramatic backdrop of the Cuillin mountains against the vibrant blue of the pools creates a truly unforgettable scene, making this a highly recommended day trip from Fort William.
skye
Fairy Glen
Located on the west side of the Trotternish peninsula on Skye, near Balnacnoc above Uig, the Fairy Glen offers a captivating and enchanting day trip from Fort William.
Often described as a miniature version of the Quiraing, this unusual landscape features small, round-topped grassy hills (tumps) interspersed with lochans (small lochs or ponds), creating an otherworldly and magical atmosphere.
The single-track road winds its way through this unique terrain, offering picturesque views at every turn. It’s a perfect spot for a gentle walk, exploring the quirky formations, and capturing some truly memorable photographs.
The Fairy Glen provides a more intimate and whimsical experience of Skye’s geological wonders, making it a worthwhile addition to your list of day trips from Fort William. Consider combining this short walk with exploring the Quiraing.
Often described as a miniature version of the Quiraing, this unusual landscape features small, round-topped grassy hills (tumps) interspersed with lochans (small lochs or ponds), creating an otherworldly and magical atmosphere.
The single-track road winds its way through this unique terrain, offering picturesque views at every turn. It’s a perfect spot for a gentle walk, exploring the quirky formations, and capturing some truly memorable photographs.
The Fairy Glen provides a more intimate and whimsical experience of Skye’s geological wonders, making it a worthwhile addition to your list of day trips from Fort William. Consider combining this short walk with exploring the Quiraing.
Gateway to the Isles and a Seafood Lover’s Paradise
Oban
A trip to Oban, often acclaimed as the ‘Seafood Capital of Scotland’, offers a delightful contrast to the rugged mountain scenery surrounding Fort William.
As you approach from the north, the first panoramic view of this bustling port town from the viewpoint of ‘Bealach-an-Righ’ (Pass of the King) is truly captivating.
The expanse of Oban Bay unfolds before you, revealing a vibrant hub steeped in maritime history and renowned for its fresh catches.
Spend your day exploring the lively harbour, indulging in delectable seafood at one of its many award-winning restaurants, visiting McCaig’s Tower (Oban’s Folly) for stunning panoramic views over the town and surrounding islands, or perhaps catching a ferry for a shorter excursion to one of the nearby Hebridean isles.
Oban’s blend of coastal charm and culinary excellence makes it a fantastic and easily accessible day trip from Fort William.
As you approach from the north, the first panoramic view of this bustling port town from the viewpoint of ‘Bealach-an-Righ’ (Pass of the King) is truly captivating.
The expanse of Oban Bay unfolds before you, revealing a vibrant hub steeped in maritime history and renowned for its fresh catches.
Spend your day exploring the lively harbour, indulging in delectable seafood at one of its many award-winning restaurants, visiting McCaig’s Tower (Oban’s Folly) for stunning panoramic views over the town and surrounding islands, or perhaps catching a ferry for a shorter excursion to one of the nearby Hebridean isles.
Oban’s blend of coastal charm and culinary excellence makes it a fantastic and easily accessible day trip from Fort William.
A Taste of the Inner Hebrides
Isle of Mull
For those yearning for an island adventure, a day trip from Fort William to the Isle of Mull is highly recommended. The most convenient route involves a scenic drive or train journey to Oban, followed by a ferry crossing to Craignure on Mull.
Mull offers a diverse tapestry of landscapes, from dramatic coastlines and pristine sandy beaches to rolling hills and the imposing Ben More.
Depending on your interests and the time available, you could explore the colourful harbour town of Tobermory with its iconic painted buildings, visit Duart Castle, the historic seat of Clan Maclean, or embark on a wildlife tour to spot seabirds, seals, and even dolphins or whales.
Exploring Mull requires some advance planning to align with ferry schedules and travel distances between attractions, but it promises a truly rewarding Hebridean experience within a manageable day trip from Fort William.
Mull offers a diverse tapestry of landscapes, from dramatic coastlines and pristine sandy beaches to rolling hills and the imposing Ben More.
Depending on your interests and the time available, you could explore the colourful harbour town of Tobermory with its iconic painted buildings, visit Duart Castle, the historic seat of Clan Maclean, or embark on a wildlife tour to spot seabirds, seals, and even dolphins or whales.
Exploring Mull requires some advance planning to align with ferry schedules and travel distances between attractions, but it promises a truly rewarding Hebridean experience within a manageable day trip from Fort William.
to the east
Cairngorms
If the weather in the West Highlands takes a turn, a day trip from Fort William eastwards to the Cairngorms National Park offers a compelling alternative, often boasting different weather patterns.
Within a reasonable driving distance, you’ll discover a vast and breathtaking national park renowned for its diverse landscapes and an abundance of outdoor activities.
The Cairngorms cater to all interests, offering opportunities for invigorating watersports on its lochs, thrilling snow sports during the winter months, and an extensive network of incredible walking and cycling routes suitable for all abilities.
Golf enthusiasts will find a selection of no fewer than twelve courses nestled within the stunning scenery.
Uniquely, the Cairngorms is home to the only dedicated sled dog centre in the UK, offering exhilarating experiences, and for the truly adventurous, the first permanent bridge-based bungee jump in the UK provides an unforgettable adrenaline rush.
Whether you’re seeking active pursuits, wildlife encounters, or simply the grandeur of expansive landscapes, a day trip from Fort William to the Cairngorms provides a fantastic and contrasting Highland experience.
Within a reasonable driving distance, you’ll discover a vast and breathtaking national park renowned for its diverse landscapes and an abundance of outdoor activities.
The Cairngorms cater to all interests, offering opportunities for invigorating watersports on its lochs, thrilling snow sports during the winter months, and an extensive network of incredible walking and cycling routes suitable for all abilities.
Golf enthusiasts will find a selection of no fewer than twelve courses nestled within the stunning scenery.
Uniquely, the Cairngorms is home to the only dedicated sled dog centre in the UK, offering exhilarating experiences, and for the truly adventurous, the first permanent bridge-based bungee jump in the UK provides an unforgettable adrenaline rush.
Whether you’re seeking active pursuits, wildlife encounters, or simply the grandeur of expansive landscapes, a day trip from Fort William to the Cairngorms provides a fantastic and contrasting Highland experience.
Myth, Mystery, and Scenic Cruises
Loch Ness Cruise
Embarking on a day trip from Fort William to experience the enigmatic Loch Ness, the largest lake in the United Kingdom by volume, offers a unique blend of stunning scenery, intriguing history, and the enduring allure of its legendary monster.
A Loch Ness cruise provides an ideal way to immerse yourself in the atmosphere of this famous loch. As you glide across its deep waters, you’ll be surrounded by the dramatic landscapes of the Scottish Highlands, with rolling hills and picturesque shorelines stretching into the distance.
Many cruises offer historical insights into the area, including tales of the loch’s past and the iconic Urquhart Castle, often offering opportunities for closer views.
Of course, no visit to Loch Ness is complete without keeping a watchful eye out for any signs of its elusive resident, Nessie! Being out on the water provides a different and captivating perspective of this iconic location, making it a memorable day trip from Fort William.
A Loch Ness cruise provides an ideal way to immerse yourself in the atmosphere of this famous loch. As you glide across its deep waters, you’ll be surrounded by the dramatic landscapes of the Scottish Highlands, with rolling hills and picturesque shorelines stretching into the distance.
Many cruises offer historical insights into the area, including tales of the loch’s past and the iconic Urquhart Castle, often offering opportunities for closer views.
Of course, no visit to Loch Ness is complete without keeping a watchful eye out for any signs of its elusive resident, Nessie! Being out on the water provides a different and captivating perspective of this iconic location, making it a memorable day trip from Fort William.
capital of the highlands
Inverness
A day trip from Fort William to Inverness, the vibrant capital of the Scottish Highlands, offers a journey through history and culture.
Within a comfortable drive, you can find yourself retracing the footsteps of fallen soldiers at the Culloden Battlefield, a poignant and significant historical site.
Alternatively, you can delve into prehistory at Clava Cairns, a remarkably preserved Bronze Age chambered tomb complex.
Explore Inverness Castle, stroll along the banks of the River Ness, or perhaps even try to spot Nessie on a short cruise departing from Inverness.
With its blend of historical landmarks, modern amenities, and Highland charm, Inverness provides a different perspective on the region and makes for an engaging day trip from Fort William.
Within a comfortable drive, you can find yourself retracing the footsteps of fallen soldiers at the Culloden Battlefield, a poignant and significant historical site.
Alternatively, you can delve into prehistory at Clava Cairns, a remarkably preserved Bronze Age chambered tomb complex.
Explore Inverness Castle, stroll along the banks of the River Ness, or perhaps even try to spot Nessie on a short cruise departing from Inverness.
With its blend of historical landmarks, modern amenities, and Highland charm, Inverness provides a different perspective on the region and makes for an engaging day trip from Fort William.
historic scotland
Stirling Castle
Venture south on a day trip from Fort William to discover the historically significant city of Stirling.
Dominating the skyline is Stirling Castle, one of Scotland’s largest and most important castles, both historically and architecturally. Perched atop Castle Hill, a dramatic crag, the castle offers commanding views of the surrounding landscape and played a crucial role in Scotland’s past.
While in Stirling, a visit to the National Wallace Monument is also highly recommended. This iconic tower commemorates Sir William Wallace, a Scottish hero, and offers further insights into Scotland’s struggle for independence, along with breathtaking panoramic views from its top.
A day trip from Fort William to Stirling provides a fascinating journey through Scottish history and offers a chance to explore impressive landmarks.
Dominating the skyline is Stirling Castle, one of Scotland’s largest and most important castles, both historically and architecturally. Perched atop Castle Hill, a dramatic crag, the castle offers commanding views of the surrounding landscape and played a crucial role in Scotland’s past.
While in Stirling, a visit to the National Wallace Monument is also highly recommended. This iconic tower commemorates Sir William Wallace, a Scottish hero, and offers further insights into Scotland’s struggle for independence, along with breathtaking panoramic views from its top.
A day trip from Fort William to Stirling provides a fascinating journey through Scottish history and offers a chance to explore impressive landmarks.
Unveiling the Untamed Beauty
Ardnamurchan Peninsula
A day trip from Fort William to the Ardnamurchan Peninsula isn’t just another sightseeing tour; it’s an immersion into a different facet of the Scottish Highlands – one that is wilder, more remote, and deeply captivating.
It offers a chance to witness a landscape shaped by both natural forces and a resilient human spirit, leaving you with lasting memories of its untamed beauty. If you’re seeking an adventure off the beaten path, a journey to Ardnamurchan is an absolute must.
Your exploration might begin with a visit to the Ardnamurchan Distillery, a testament to the ingenuity and tradition thriving in this isolated setting. Take the opportunity to delve into the fascinating whisky-making process, learning how this golden spirit is crafted amidst the rugged scenery.
Continuing your westward adventure, a poignant stop awaits at the picturesque ruins of Castle Tioram. Dramatically perched on a tidal island at the head of Loch Moidart, the castle’s weathered stone walls whisper tales of clans and centuries past.
It offers a chance to witness a landscape shaped by both natural forces and a resilient human spirit, leaving you with lasting memories of its untamed beauty. If you’re seeking an adventure off the beaten path, a journey to Ardnamurchan is an absolute must.
Your exploration might begin with a visit to the Ardnamurchan Distillery, a testament to the ingenuity and tradition thriving in this isolated setting. Take the opportunity to delve into the fascinating whisky-making process, learning how this golden spirit is crafted amidst the rugged scenery.
Continuing your westward adventure, a poignant stop awaits at the picturesque ruins of Castle Tioram. Dramatically perched on a tidal island at the head of Loch Moidart, the castle’s weathered stone walls whisper tales of clans and centuries past.
