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If you’ve stayed with us before, you’ll know that one of the greatest luxuries of being based in Fort William is this: you can step out the door and be on a world-class hill within minutes.
For many of our previous guests, the mountains weren’t just a backdrop to your stay — they were the reason you came. Whether you’re already planning your next visit or simply daydreaming about Highland air and big skies, here’s a reminder of the extraordinary walking country right on our doorstep.
The Ben: Ben Nevis
It’s impossible to start anywhere else.
As the UK’s highest mountain, Ben Nevis draws walkers from across the world — yet from Fort William, it feels like a local hill. The Mountain Track (Tourist Path) is a steady, rewarding ascent with ever-expanding views over Loch Linnhe and the surrounding peaks.
On a clear day from the summit, the panorama stretches across the Mamores, the Grey Corries, and out towards the islands. On a misty day? It becomes something wilder and more atmospheric — a true Highland experience.
If you’ve already ticked it off, you’ll know the particular satisfaction of descending back into town for a well-earned meal.
The Mamores: Wild and Wonderfully Quiet
Just across Glen Nevis lie the graceful ridges of the Mamores — a collection of Munros that feel more remote and rugged than the Ben.
Highlights include:
Stob Bàn – Pale quartzite scree and dramatic corries
Sgùrr a' Mhàim – A narrow ridge with spectacular views
Am Bodach – Often combined with neighbouring peaks in a classic ridge round
The Mamores reward confident hillwalkers with sweeping ridgelines and that wonderful sense of space that makes the Highlands so addictive.
Aonach Mòr & Aonach Beag: Big Days Out
Across the river from town rises Aonach Mòr, reached either on foot or via the gondola at Nevis Range (a good option if you’d rather save your legs for the higher ground).
From there, stronger walkers can continue to Aonach Beag — a quieter, more serious undertaking with dramatic northern corries. The terrain here feels bigger, more Arctic, especially outside the height of summer.
These hills offer a slightly different character from Ben Nevis: broad plateaus, steep drops, and expansive views into remote country.
The Grey Corries: For the Ridge Lovers
For those who love long, committing days, the Grey Corries provide one of the finest ridge walks in Scotland.
The arc from Stob Choire Claurigh to Sgùrr Chòinnich Mòr is a masterpiece of airy crests and constant views back to Ben Nevis. It’s a more serious undertaking — but for experienced walkers, it’s unforgettable.
Easier Walks with Big Highland Character
Not every day has to be a Munro.
The lower trails in Glen Nevis offer riverside woodland and waterfalls.
Cow Hill provides a short but rewarding circuit with classic views back towards the Ben.
Sections of the West Highland Way are perfect for a scenic half-day outing.
These walks are ideal for rest days — or for introducing friends and family to Highland landscapes without committing to a summit.
Why Fort William Makes the Perfect Base
One of the joys of staying here is the flexibility. You can:
Watch the weather roll across the peaks before choosing your objective
Set off early and be on the hill ahead of the crowds
Return to town quickly for food, warmth, and comfort
There are few places in the UK where such a concentration of classic mountains sits so close to a welcoming town.
Until Your Next Highland Walk
If you’ve stayed with us before, you’ve already experienced that particular Highland rhythm: early starts, changing light, tired legs, and the quiet satisfaction of a day well spent outdoors.
The hills around Fort William are never quite the same twice — different light, different seasons, different moods. And yet they always feel like coming home.
Whenever you’re ready for your next Munro, ridge, or gentle glen wander, the Highlands will be waiting.
Cold Water Swimming in Lochaber: Wild Swimming from the Doorstep at Heron Bay Holidays
Cold water swimming has become one of the most popular wellness activities in the UK. Combining the beauty of nature with powerful physical and mental health benefits, wild swimming offers an unforgettable way to experience the Scottish Highlands.
At Heron Bay Holidays, guests have the rare opportunity to swim directly in Loch Linnhe from the shoreline just steps from their accommodation.
With peaceful surroundings and spectacular mountain views, it’s the perfect setting for experiencing the invigorating benefits of cold water swimming.
Located in the heart of Lochaber, the area is known as the Outdoor Capital of the UK, offering incredible landscapes and some of Scotland’s most beautiful wild swimming locations.
The Health Benefits of Cold Water Swimming
Cold water immersion has been practiced for centuries in Nordic and Celtic cultures. Today it is widely recognised for its positive effects on physical and mental wellbeing.
Boosts Mood and Reduces Stress
Cold water triggers the release of endorphins and dopamine, helping reduce stress and creating the well-known post-swim mood boost.
Improves Circulation
Immersion in cold water stimulates blood flow as the body adapts to temperature changes, which may improve cardiovascular health.
Supports the Immune System
Regular cold water exposure can stimulate the body’s natural defence systems.
Encourages Better Sleep
Many swimmers report deeper and more restful sleep following a cold water dip.
Enhances Connection with Nature
Wild swimming encourages mindfulness and provides a powerful sense of calm in natural surroundings.
Wild Swimming in Loch Linnhe from Your Doorstep
One of the unique experiences of staying at Heron Bay Holidays is the ability to walk straight to the water for a refreshing swim in Loch Linnhe.
Unlike many wild swimming destinations that require travel or busy beaches, guests can enjoy peaceful swimming in a spectacular Highland setting.
Highlights include:
- Sunrise swims over the loch
- Calm evening dips surrounded by mountain views
- Direct access to natural open water
- Quiet swimming away from crowded locations
For many visitors, this simple experience becomes the highlight of their stay.
Other Beautiful Wild Swimming Locations in Lochaber
While swimming at Heron Bay is wonderfully convenient, the wider Lochaber region offers many stunning swimming spots.
Tralee Bay
Located near Ardgour, Tralee Bay is known for its white sand and remarkably clear water.
On sunny days the turquoise colours give the beach an almost tropical feel, making it a favourite destination for wild swimmers.
Arisaig Beaches
The beaches near Arisaig are among the most famous in Scotland.
Their white sands and crystal-clear Atlantic water make them an incredible location for swimming, often with views of the Small Isles on the horizon.
Pair Cold Water Swimming with a Sauna
Cold water swimming becomes even more powerful when paired with a sauna.
Alternating between cold immersion and heat exposure is known as contrast therapy, a wellness practice used for centuries across Scandinavia.
Benefits of Sauna Therapy
- Improves circulation
- Helps muscles recover after outdoor activities
- Promotes relaxation and stress reduction
- Encourages detoxification through sweating
- Enhances the endorphin effect after cold water swimming
Fortunately, several excellent coastal saunas are located within driving distance of Heron Bay Holidays.
Coastal Saunas Near Heron Bay Holidays
Tralee Bay Sauna
After swimming at Tralee Bay, visitors can warm up in the nearby Tralee Bay Sauna, a wood-fired sauna overlooking the sea.
Arisaig Sauna
Near the famous beaches of Arisaig, the Arisaig Sauna offers a memorable wellness experience combining Atlantic swimming with a traditional sauna.
Lochaline Harbour Sauna
Across the water on the Morvern peninsula, Lochaline is home to the welcoming Lochaline Harbour Saunaoverlooking the beautiful Sound of Mull.
Stay at Heron Bay Holidays for Wild Swimming in the Highlands
For travellers seeking nature, relaxation and adventure, Heron Bay Holidays offers a unique Highland experience.
Guests can enjoy:
- Wild swimming directly in Loch Linnhe
- Easy access to spectacular beaches and lochs
- Nearby coastal saunas for the perfect wellness ritual
- Peaceful accommodation in the Scottish Highlands
Whether it’s a sunrise swim, an invigorating cold dip, or a sauna session after exploring Lochaber, the experience offers a powerful connection to nature.
