A major upgrade to the Great Glen Way is underway that will remove more than 3km of the popular walking route from the public road south of Drumnadrochit.
The Highland Council has begun work to divert the existing on road section leading to Grotaig onto a new off road alternative designed to improve safety and enjoyment for walkers.
The section has long been highlighted by users as uncomfortable and at times unsafe due to traffic levels.
The Council is delivering the project in partnership with Bunloit Estate managers and Highlands Rewilding.
The new route will provide a safer and more rewarding experience while allowing walkers to enjoy woodland and diverse habitats within the estate.
Preparatory work began in winter 2024 and included surveys, negotiations and engagement with landowners and the local community.
Planning consent was granted last year and £150,000 of funding has been secured through a joint project fund with Forestry and Land Scotland and Scottish Canals.
Bunloit Estate has supported the project throughout, enabling access through areas of restored woodland and wildlife habitat.
Interpretation panels are expected to be installed at a later stage to further enhance the visitor experience.
Chair of the Council’s Economy and Infrastructure Committee Councillor Ken Gowans said:
“This project represents a major step forward in improving safety and enhancing the experience for everyone who enjoys the Great Glen Way.
“By moving this busy section off road, we are creating a more accessible and enjoyable route while working closely with partners to protect and celebrate the area’s outstanding natural environment.”
Alex Davies, Bunloit Estate Manager from Highlands Rewilding, said:
“We are delighted to welcome walkers on this new route through Bunloit estate.
“Taking the Great Glen Way off road will undoubtably make the area safer for everyone, while opening up some beautiful views and guiding people through the mosaic of wildlife habitats we’re restoring at Bunloit.
“Providing opportunities for access to local nature and all the benefits it brings is a priority for us at Highlands Rewilding, and it’s been a pleasure to work with the Highland Council Countryside Rangers and Access Officers to achieve this.”
Construction is being delivered by Hitrak Ltd, a specialist contractor with extensive experience in upland path building.
The project is scheduled for completion by the end of March 2026.
Stretching 118km from Fort William to Inverness, the Great Glen Way is managed and maintained by a dedicated team of Highland Council officers and Rangers.
Recent surveys show users of the trail contribute more than £3 million each year to local businesses, underlining the route’s importance to the Highland economy.
To find out ore information about The Great Glen Way click here
