The Scottish Highlands are found on the northwest fringe of Europe along the west of Scotland. The rough and rugged countryside has been created by geological shifts, glacial action, the harsh weather and mankind. The grandeur of the highlands is immense and along the long coast the seascapes are breathtaking in all weathers. In this part of the world sunsets are often spectacular with deep red skies and maroon lochs with hues between forever shifting and changing before they fade into the night. Man sometimes seems insignificant in such locations but this part of Scotland has seen more that it’s fair share of human drama throughout the centuries. Tourism in the region is extremely popular with those looking for exciting outdoor pursuits especially in such places as Fort William.

When you first arrive at the largest town in the Highlands, Fort William, you will most probably be driving along the main road which replaced the seafront many years ago. Thankfully the town’s High Street has kept some of it’s character but most visitors to Fort William are not really here for the town, they are here to indulge in all manner of outdoor sports in the surrounding area. Top of the list for most is Ben Nevis the UK’s highest peak which can be seen towering over the town.

Many of the visitors to Fort William have arrived to take up the challenge of Ben Nevis but if you are not a world class mountaineer you will be pleased to learn that one of the faces is suitable for the less able mountain climbers. Though the route is considered rather easy far too many people make the terrible, often fatal, mistake of not going suitable equipped. The weather on the mountain can change in an instant and what was a sunny summer day can suddenly become a blinding blizzard, yes it can snow on the mountain at any time of the year. Less people die each year on Mount Everest than die at Ben Nevis so please take the most care possible.

If you are not the type to go climbing mountains then maybe you will appreciate the more leisurely way in which to see the finest sights of the area, by taking a ride on a steam train from Fort William to Mallaig. The West Highland Railway is said to be the finest most beautiful train journey in the United Kingdom.

Anyone who has seen the Harry Potter movies is likely to recognise the Jacobite steam train as Hogwarts’ Express. Each day the Jacobite travels from Fort William to Mallaig along the route which includes the “Harry Potter Bridge” or Glenfinnan Aqueduct. Fans will instantly recognise the aqueduct as well as one or two other spots along the way.

Although you only catch sight of it for a short time it is well worth watching out for the Glenfinnan Monument which was built in 1815 as a memorial to those who fought in the Jacobite Uprising of 1745, and the raising of the standard there by Bonnie Prince Charlie at the start of the rebellion.

When you reach the halfway point of the journey, at Glenfinnan Railway Station you will be given a 20 minute break during which you can take in the scenery, visit the Station Museum or enjoy the gorgeous homemade food available in the old dining car at the station.

While you can take the Jacobite steam train to Mallaig one way you can make a whole day of it by returning later that afternoon. There is certainly plenty to make a full day but the main point is to enjoy the most beautiful train journey available in the UK a second time.

Want to find out more about hotels in Fort William, then visit Karl Fraser’s site which has the most comprehensive listings of Fort William Hotels.

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