Our Guide to Hiking the West Highlands

Felicity's Favourite Hikes in the West Highlands

*Before attempting any of these hikes, please consult local experts for guidance. Weather conditions in these remote areas can change rapidly, even during the summer months, posing risks even to experienced hikers. We recommend hiking only between June and September when weather conditions tends to be more stable.*

As some of you may have realised by now, at Menteath we find endless inspiration in the rugged beauty of Scotland’s West Highlands which is not too far from Felicity's family heritage in Perthshire. The Highlands are more than just a destination for us—they’re where Felicity sourced her inspiration for Menteath and connected with the wild elements that define the brand. Hiking through this spectacular landscape feels like being cradled by nature itself, always drawn back by the windswept lochs, towering munros, and quiet glens. Whether you’re here for a weekend adventure or you call this place a second home like Felicity does, these are our top West Highland hikes that never fail to take our breath away.

1. Ben Nevis via the Mountain Track

Ben Nevis is a classic, and though it’s the highest mountain in the UK, it’s a challenge well worth the effort. You are better off starting early, with the crisp morning air energising you as you ascend. The Mountain Track (also known as the Tourist Route) is the most popular path, and while it can get busy, the views from the top are unbeatable on a clear day. As you hike, you’re reminded of the power of the natural elements we weave into our products—there’s a certain purity to the clean mountain air, the cold streams, and the resilience of the plant life here that inspires our cleansing formulations.

2. The Lost Valley, Glencoe

If you’re after a shorter hike that still packs a punch, the Lost Valley in Glencoe is one of our absolute favourites. It’s steeped in history—this hidden valley is where the MacDonald clan reportedly hid their cattle in times of trouble. The hike begins with a walk through ancient woods before leading you into a dramatic valley surrounded by towering mountains. The experience of stepping into this secluded, magical spot feels like entering another world. The light filters through the trees, and the earthy scent of damp moss fills the air. This is where the natural beauty of the Highlands speaks loudest to us.

3. Buachaille Etive Mòr, Glencoe

Few places are as iconic as Buachaille Etive Mòr, the pyramid-shaped mountain standing guard over the entrance to Glencoe. The hike to its summit is challenging but incredibly rewarding, offering panoramic views over Rannoch Moor and the surrounding peaks. It’s the kind of place that makes you feel small in the best possible way, like a tiny part of a vast, ancient landscape. It’s a humbling reminder of nature’s power and grace. The wild heather, the sharpness of the mountain air, and the soft trickle of burns along the way are all things we think of when blending the earthy, smoky, herbaceous notes in our scents.

4. Steall Falls, Nevis Gorge

For those looking for a gentler hike with dramatic payoff, the walk to Steall Falls is one we recommend to everyone. It’s a fairly short trek through Nevis Gorge, but it’s packed with incredible scenery—sheer rock faces, lush green forests, and the sound of rushing water. The falls themselves are stunning, one of the highest in Scotland, cascading in a silver ribbon down the cliffs. There’s something magical about walking through a place so full of life, from the dense ferns underfoot to the scent of wet stone and wood. It’s a place where we often pause, breathe deeply, and let the wild surroundings renew our spirits—something we strive to offer through our skincare.

5. The Pap of Glencoe

This hike is a bit of a lung-buster, but the reward at the top is worth every step. The Pap of Glencoe offers jaw-dropping views over Loch Leven and the dramatic Glencoe Valley. The path can be a bit of a scramble in places, but the summit gives you a panoramic vista that truly showcases the raw beauty of the Highlands. It’s one of those places that make you feel connected to something much bigger than yourself. We recommend you bring a flask of tea and take a moment at the top, soaking in the view and feeling that unmistakable Highland wind on your faces. That bracing wind and the fresh, herbal scent of the hills are ever-present in our minds when creating products designed to refresh and invigorate the senses.

6. Glenfinnan Viaduct Trail

For a gentler, family-friendly option, the Glenfinnan Viaduct Trail is a must. The hike itself is a lovely meander through woodland and open fields, offering stunning views of Loch Shiel and, of course, the famous viaduct that carries the Jacobite steam train (aka the “Harry Potter train”) across the glen. Every time we visit, the timeless romance of the place strikes us—the mist rising from the loch, the distant sound of the train whistle, and the serenity of the landscape. This walk is like stepping into a postcard, and it captures the softer, more nostalgic side of the Highlands that we infuse into our more soothing, grounding scents.

7. The West Highland Way (Section: Bridge of Orchy to Kingshouse)

For those seeking a more immersive experience, tackling a section of the West Highland Way offers a taste of the Highlands’ true vastness. Our favourite stretch is the walk from Bridge of Orchy to Kingshouse, a journey that takes you through the wide-open expanse of Rannoch Moor. There’s something almost meditative about the rhythm of walking through this desolate, hauntingly beautiful landscape. The changing light, the distant calls of birds, and the sheer openness of the moor are the kind of sensory experiences we draw from when crafting our more calming, earthy products. This particular hike was the inspiration behind Orchy Path Facial Cleanser - Bridge of Orchy - Orchy Path! 

Connecting to Nature’s Essence

These hikes aren’t just about physical exercise for us; they are about reconnecting with the natural world that inspires everything we do at Menteath Skincare & Scent. Each time we set out on one of these trails, we take the time to notice the scents, textures, and colours that make the West Highlands so unique. From the fresh, floral notes of the heather-clad hills to the deep, mossy richness of the glens, it’s these experiences that shape the heart of our brand.

If you ever find yourself in the Highlands, we hope you take the opportunity to experience these hikes for yourself. The raw beauty of the land, combined with the soothing effects of fresh air and wild landscapes, is a natural balm for the soul—and that’s exactly what we strive to bottle in every product we make.

Happy hiking!

— The Menteath Team