10 reasons to take the West Highlands Line railway

The West Highlands Line is famous for its breath-taking views and has been voted the best rail journey in the world. This 164 mile long railway line that links the ports of Mallaig and Oban situated on the west coast of Scotland to the city of Glasgow, takes in the remote mountains and lochs of the Scottish Highlands all the way down to the wild sea.  Here are ten reasons you should not miss it...

1. Loch Lomond

One of the first great sights of the West Highlands Railway is Loch Lomond. This freshwater loch is the largest inland stretch of water in Great Britain and the train provides spectacular views as it runs along its eastern bank. The loch and surrounding area attract many visitors who enjoy water sports and other activities in the beautiful and calming surroundings. Loch Lomond is a great place to keep the whole family entertained with plenty of shops, places to eat and even its own Sea Life aquarium, so be sure to stop off here for a wonderful day out.

2. Rannoch Moor

Further along the track is the Great Moor of Rannoch. This is a stunningly beautiful and extremely remote moorland wilderness, where wildlife and various plants and flowers thrive. The area is made up mostly of bog and rivers making it feel like you’re in another world - it is well worth getting off at Rannoch Station to simply step out and admire the view. In the distance you’ll see mountains all around you, some with snow on their peaks, contrasting with the dark browns of the moor. In the drier places of the moor you can still see the roots of ancient Caledonian forest.

3. Corrour Railway Station

Corrour Railway Station is the highest mainline railway station in the UK (at 1350 feet above sea level!) in the UK as well as one of the most remote, being located in the isolated Rannoch Moor. Some of you may remember this station from the film Trainspotting. The station is inaccessible by car, so a stop here will really give the impression of getting away from it all. There is a restaurant here too, so you can get a bite to eat while enjoying some wonderful views.

4. Fort William

The town of Fort William is the largest on the West Highlands Train line. Known as the Outdoor Capital of the UK, Fort William offers great opportunities to get involved in outdoor activities such as mountain biking, skiing, rock sports, hiking and cycling in unspoilt natural surroundings. The town also has good options for food, shopping and entertainment.

5. Loch Eli, Ben Nevis & Neptune’s Staircase

Not much further down the track Loch Eil. The views from here are extremely rewarding and this is one of the best places to see famous Ben Nevis in the distance. Ben Nevis is the highest mountain in the British Isles and a popular place for walking and other outdoor activities. Stopping off at the station here provides the perfect opportunity to relax and enjoy a picnic as well as some great photographic opportunities. Another great reason to get off here is to see the remarkable Neptune’s Staircase - the longest staircase lock in Britain - which comprises of 8 locks used to raise boats on the Caledonian Canal.

6. Glenfinnan Viaduct

Just before you reach the station of Glenfinnan, you pass over the iconic Glenfinnan Viaduct featured in the Harry Potter films. As you pass over this 21 arch viaduct, make sure you sit on the left-hand side of the train to get wonderful vistas over the Glenfinnan Monument and Loch Shiel -  these some of the best views of the journey!

7.Loch Eilt

The West Highland Train next travels along the south side of Loch Eilt. The loch is a picturesque area of beauty and another interesting location for Harry Potter fans - in the film Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban Hagrid is seen skipping stones across the loch. There are a number of small islands in the loch, one of which is apparently the location of Dumbledore’s grave!

8. Arisaig to the silver sands of Morar

As you continue your journey from the village of Arisaig, located on the shore of Loch nan Ceall, the line runs close the coast. On the left hand side you can catch glimpses of the white sandy beaches of Morar, which provide a stark contrast to the rugged landscape so far. These bright turquoise waters and beautiful white and silver sand beaches are some of the best in the UK. Nearby Loch Morar is the deepest body of freshwater in Britain, and said to be the home of loch monster Morag - Nessie’s cousin!

9. Mallaig and onwards to Skye, Rum and Eigg

Mallaig is the end of the line. This working fishing port and ferry terminal has regular ferries to the Isle of Skye and the surrounding islands of Rum and Eigg. These incredibly beautiful islands provide excellent opportunities for wildlife enthusiasts, where you can spot all manner of bird life and even dolphins, otters and seals out in the sea. Skye is one of Scotland’s most visited islands and with good reason, there is a great deal to see and do here whilst getting insight into island life. A trip onto an of these islands is highly recommended.

10. The Jacobean Steam Train

The Jacobite is an old steam train that runs from Fort William to Mallaig. This is a wonderfully unique way to enjoy the West Highlands Train line and a truly magical experience, especially when crossing that famous Harry Potter viaduct – you feel as if you’re on your way to Hogwarts yourself! The chugging of the train adds wonderful sounds and smells and will remind you of a bygone era. Be sure to get a seat on the left hand side of the carriage if you can as this is where the better views are.

The West Highlands Train is sure to be one of the best railway journeys you’ll ever take - the spectacular views and pretty towns and villages are not to be missed. There are 3 return trips from Glasgow to Fort William each weekday and twice on Sundays, lasting approximately 3hrs 40mins. It is a further 1 hour 20 minutes if you wish visit Mallaig too, which you definitely should as some of the best views of the journey lie within this section. Make this the next train journey you take to see some truly magical scenery!