Scottish Highlands Trail Wins Award for Europe’s Most Scenic Hike

A recently established hiking trail through the Scottish Highlands has been named Europe’s most scenic walk by the International Trails Council, earning praise for its breathtaking landscapes, environmental design, and cultural integration. The Glenvara Trail, which stretches 82 kilometres from Fort Augustus to Torridon, is quickly becoming a bucket-list destination for outdoor enthusiasts.

The accolade follows a year-long review of over 200 trails across the continent, with judges citing Glenvara’s 'unique fusion of natural splendour and historical depth.' Hikers along the trail encounter glacial valleys, lochs, and peat moorlands, as well as ancient crofting ruins and restored clan sites that highlight Scotland’s rural heritage.

What sets the Glenvara Trail apart, according to the council, is its careful balance of accessibility and conservation. The trail uses boardwalks in sensitive bog areas and stone-paved switchbacks on steep inclines to minimise erosion. All wayfinding signs are bilingual in English and Gaelic, celebrating local culture while serving international visitors.

Launched just three years ago, the trail was the result of a collaboration between local councils, conservation charities, and hiking associations. The route connects to both the West Highland Way and the North Coast 500, enhancing its appeal as part of a broader eco-tourism network in the Highlands.

Trail maintenance and staffing are handled by local rangers, many of whom are residents of the nearby villages. Several communities along the route have seen a small economic boost from the steady increase in hikers, with new hostels, gear rental shops, and eco-cafés opening to meet demand.

“It’s been a lifeline for us,” said Moira Lennox, owner of a guesthouse near Shieldaig. “We’re getting hikers from Germany, Canada, even South Korea — and they all say the same thing: they’ve never seen anything quite like this place.”

The trail's design has also received attention for its use of digital integration. A free mobile app provides hikers with offline maps, historical notes, wildlife spotting tips, and weather alerts. It also includes a voluntary check-in feature to improve safety for solo travellers.

Scottish Natural Heritage officials have praised the trail as a model of sustainable development. “We’re seeing how responsible tourism can create opportunities for rural communities without compromising the very landscapes people come to see,” said spokesperson Graham Urquhart.

The success of the Glenvara Trail has inspired plans for future extensions, including a spur route that would link to a historic whisky distillery path. Talks are underway with local distillers and landowners to finalise a route that would blend nature, history, and heritage industry.

For now, the trail’s recognition has put it firmly on the map. With its combination of scenic beauty, thoughtful planning, and deep cultural resonance, Glenvara is poised to become a crown jewel in Europe’s outdoor tourism scene — and a new national treasure for Scotland.