A new app has been launched to support walkers, cyclists and paddlers as they journey on Scotland’s Great Glen Way.
The Great Glen is a geological fault line between Fort William and Inverness that includes iconic landmarks, such as Ben Nevis, Loch Ness and Urquhart Castle.
The Great Glen Way itself extends 79 miles (126km) from Fort William to Inverness following roads, towpaths and forestry tracks. It takes five to six days to walk the full route.
Now the new Great Glen Way app – which is free – offers an enhanced experience with a wealth of information and practical tips, including local businesses and accommodation details. There are also plenty tales from nature and history to accompany travellers as they make their way along the way.
Although mainly aimed at walkers and cyclists, it also includes links and basic information about the canoe trail as well.
Funding their way with the app: Cllr Henderson and Bruce Kocjan-Briggs. Pic credit: Ewen Weatherspoon ©The Highland Council
Cllr Allan Henderson, chair of The Highland Council’s Environment, Development and Infrastructure Committee,recently joined the council’s Great Glen Way Long Distance Routes officer Bruce Kocjan-Briggs for a demonstration of the app.
Allan said: “The app has been designed to help you get the best out of your journey along the Great Glen Way, with interactive maps and live links, to extensive business and accommodation listings covering canoe hire to taxi services, as well as advice for all types of wayfarer.
“I’m sure it will help attract more visitors to the area and also encourage anyone living in the surrounding communities to enjoy sections of the route they may not have yet explored.”
He added: “With 79 miles of path, track, canal and loch to discover, whether you completed the route from coast to coast, or sampled it in bite-sized chunks, the new app will help you have an unforgettable experience.”
Chris Taylor, VisitScotland leadership director, said: “I think this new app is a fantastic idea and is a real one-stop-shop for helping visitors – and indeed locals – to enjoy even more of what this beautiful area has to offer.
“Innovative ideas like this really help attract visitors to the area and in turn, boost the visitor economy.”
The free GGW app is available on Google Play and soon in the Apple App Store.