Overview
Introduction to the Ben Nevis
Ben Nevis is the biggest and most popular mountain in Scotland. Its summit, which is 1345 metres high, more often than not even has patches of snow in the summer, due to its elevation. Thistle Trekking try and give you the best chance possible of succeeding in your attempt to summit Ben Nevis. We provide you with a qualified Mountain Leader, who will guide you up the classic tourist path. We also organise your accommodation, so all you need to do is concentrate on the walk itself.
Highlights of the Ben Nevis
- Reaching the summit of the highest mountain in the UK.
- Qualified and friendly UK Mountain Leader.
- Staying in Fort William, the Outdoor Capital of the UK.
What's Included with this Holiday
- A qualified Mountain Leader
- A Ben Nevis Information Pack
- Accommodation for 2 nights
- 2 Breakfasts if in B&B/hotel
- Maximum group size of 8
Read our article about Ben Nevis – The Tallest Mountain in the UK or on Wikipedia.
Ben Nevis Guided Walking Itinerary
Daily Plan
Day 1: Arrive in Fort William
This is your chance to get to the start of the holiday by making your way to Fort William. We will have accommodation arranged for you for this first night (either in B&B, Hotel or camp site depending on your preference). This will be pre-paid, so you just need to turn up and tell them your name.
Accommodation in Fort William
Day 2: Ben Nevis Guided Walk
Today you will meet your guide at The Glen Nevis Visitors Centre Car Park. This is approximately 3 miles from Fort William town centre. The easiest way to get there is often by taxi, and we will provide you with a list of taxi numbers so you can arrange this beforehand. Sometimes a group transfer is available, please enquire for details if you would like to be added to this.
Once everyone has met at The Glen Nevis Visitors Centre the walk up Ben Nevis will begin. The walk is just under 11 miles but with over 1300 metres of ascent it is a strenuous and challenging day. The path is good underfoot and while there is obviously much ascent no scrambling is involved (you will not need to use your hands). You will walk at a slow and comfortable pace with plenty of time to stop and take photos, eat and drink. It will take an average of 7-9 hours to complete this walk but be aware that this should be a rough guide only as every group has a different pace.
Remember, Ben Nevis is the highest mountain in the UK and so be prepared for some challenging weather. It will be approximately 14 Degrees Celsius colder on the summit of Ben Nevis to the temperature in Fort William. There is often snow at the top, high winds are also likely and so we will provide you with a kit list to make sure you are suitably equipped.
While this is certainly a challenging day it is achievable by most people with an average level of fitness and a positive mental attitude. Do expect it to be difficult but it will be an achievement you will never forget.
Accommodation in Fort William
Day 3: Depart
Today it will be time for you to check out of your accommodation make your way home.
Ben Nevis Accommodation Options
We offer our Ben Nevis guided trek with 3 different accommodation options to suit your needs and budget.
Ben Nevis – Bed and Breakfast Package
The Bed and Breakfast option provides you with B&B accommodation in Fort William with breakfast included within the price of the holiday. This is a great option is you are looking for anyone looking for a small, simple place to stay. All the B&Bs we use are within easy walking distance of Fort William town centre so you can walk in the evening to the local pubs.
Ben Nevis – Hotel or Luxury B&B Package
If you are looking for some of the higher standard accommodation available in the area then this is the option for you. You will be staying in a hotel or 4 star standard B&B located in Fort William. This is the perfect choice is you want to reward yourself with a bit of luxury for your Ben Nevis trek.
Ben Nevis – Without Accommodation
For those who are living locally, or travelling in a camper van, or perhaps including this as a part of a longer holiday in the area, we offer this weekend without accommodation as well.
Dates & Prices
The dates of our scheduled treks can be seen below. We also off the option of private bookings for groups. Please get in touch if you'd like to book privately.
| Date of Trek | Availability |
|---|---|
| Saturday 20th May 2023 to Monday 22nd May 2023 | Spaces |
| Friday 2nd June 2023 to Sunday 4th June 2023 | Spaces |
| Saturday 17th June 2023 to Monday 19th June 2023 | Spaces |
| Saturday 1st July 2023 to Monday 3rd July 2023 | Spaces |
| Friday 14th July 2023 to Sunday 16th July 2023 | Spaces |
| Saturday 12th August 2023 to Monday 14th August 2023 | Spaces |
| Tuesday 12th September 2023 to Thursday 14th September 2023 | Spaces |
No Suitable Date?
If there are no dates on this calendar to suit you please let us know, sometimes we can add extra dates if there is enough demand for an extra trip to be added.
Waiting List
If a trek is full but you would like to be added to the waiting list, please do let us know. The waiting list is there so that if anyone drops out of the trek we will contact you and let you know, so you can take their place on the trek instead.
Future Dates
Our trekking calendar is released a year in advance each spring. Keep an eye on the 'Year Planner' in the menu above, or send us a request for an email alert when the latest calendar is published. If you are keen to book early and secure a trek on a date to suit you, do feel free to get in contact with us to suggest a date
Pricing
Price for Ben Nevis – Bed and Breakfast Package:
The total price for this option including accommodation, instructor, etc is:
£210 per person when booking as a two in double or twin rooms.
£310 per person if booking as an individual therefore needing single rooms.
To book this trip we will require a £100 deposit per person with the rest to be paid a month before your trip.Price for Ben Nevis – Hotel or Luxury B&B Package:
The total price for this option including accommodation, instructor, etc is:
£289 per person when booking as a two in double or twin rooms.
£489 per person if booking as an individual therefore needing single rooms.
To book this trip we will require a £150 deposit per person with the rest to be paid a month before your trip.Price for Ben Nevis – Without Accommodation:
The price for guiding only is £75. This does not included any accommodation with the trek. Our guide will arrange a meeting location a few days before your booking.
To book this trip we will require a £25 deposit per person with the rest to be paid a month before your trip.
How to Book
Booking is simple, you can either phone us, email us or use our online shopping cart below.
Book Ben Nevis Online
What Happens Once you Have Booked
Once we have received your booking (either through the online shopping cart, email or phone). We will then confirm with you that your accommodation option and room type, single, twin or double, is available. We will then send you a full booking form and information about paying your deposit for your trek. All deposits can be paid by cheque, bank transfer or debit/credit card. Once we have received back both your booking form and deposit we will let you know and your place on the trip will be secure.