Day 81: Great Glen Way - Laggan to Fort Augustus

Day 2 on the Great Glen Way, which was a relatively short one. I’ve reached Fort Augustus, the half way point and also the biggest settlement on the trail. 

• Date: 9 June 2024
• Start: Laggan
• End: Fort Augustus
• Miles: 12.6
• Total miles: 1,090.2
• Accommodation: Morag’s Lodge

Last night was rough, there was an incredibly loud snorer in the dormitory, and it wasn’t me. The culprit was pointed out by others in the room, who weren’t particularly happy with their nights sleep. I’m used to this now having stayed in hostels for nearly a year and half. I just pop my headphones in and listen to the soothing sounds of thunderstorms and rain. 

My feet and legs were hurting when I set off this morning, probably due to the long day yesterday and the hard ground I’ve been walking on. Today was short, and so are the next two days, so I’ll get over it. 

The day started with yet another diversion. They may as well just call the path the Great Glen Diversion at this rate. Well, to be honest, there’s actually two routes for the first 7 miles today. One is closed, but the one open was the one I was due to take anyway. 

The weather today was splendid, sunshine but not too hot.  Perfect walking weather. 

I walked along a forest track for the first few miles until I reached Invergarry. I popped into the petrol station here to pick up lunch. Otherwise, there’s nothing much of interest there. 

I then continued on forest track above the shores of Loch Oich, which led back down to the Caledonian Canal. 

I passed by the Bridge of Oich, which the trail didn’t cross. Not to be confused with the Oich Bridge, which the trail did cross. I sat down for lunch then continued on up the canal path. 

An American couple caught up to me, and we chatted for a couple of miles. I told them my name was Danny, which I thought I’d made clear a few times, but they insisted on calling me Donny. Apart from this misunderstanding, they were very friendly. 

I eventually walked into the locks at Fort Augustus, with my feet absolutely killing. It was too early to check into the hostel, so I enjoyed a lock side pint at the nearest pub. 

I headed to my hostel and checked in, it’s a lovely a place. After showering, I headed out to the Loch Ness viewpoint, Fort Augustus being at the southern end of the loch, where I saw my mate Nessie. 

My friend Kay was not impressed with my Nessie attempt, so also edited my photo. I’ll let you be the judge of which Nessie is better. 

I grabbed a pizza from the local Spar and headed back to the hostel for dinner and to chill for the evening.