Fort William is a town in the Scottish Highlands situated on the beautiful Loch Linnhe. It is one of the largest towns in the northwest of Scotland and therefore an important stop for campers. The town offers more than just a convenient location for stocking up on supplies for your further travels. It boasts a small but charming town center, an ancient castle, and, of course, stunning natural scenery surrounding the village.
History of Fort William
The town has a very rich history, which is evident upon exploration. There is an ancient fort, after which the town is named. The fort was commissioned by William of Orange, not to be confused with William the Silent. It was constructed to control the Scottish clans following Scotland’s loss in the war. Previously, the town was named Inverlochy, after the castle of the same name, which is located nearby and is definitely worth visiting.
Loch Linnhe
Fort William sits at the end of the stunning Loch Linnhe. The loch stretches approximately 50 kilometers in length and is only 2 kilometers wide. Along the shores of the loch, there are several beaches where you can swim, although the water can be cold and the currents can be strong due to the loch being influenced by the tides. Additionally, you can join a boat tour or a fishing excursion departing from Fort William.
Jacobite Steam Train
Fort William is large enough to have its own train station, but it is also the starting point of one of the most beautiful train journeys in the world. The old Jacobite Steam Train is a vintage steam train famously known as the Hogwarts Express. The name originates from the Harry Potter movie series, which is set in Scotland. Today, you can take the train from Fort William to the coastal town of Mallaig, where you can spend a few hours before returning on this incredible stretch of railway. A ticket costs £65, and the journey takes approximately 6 hours.
Neptune’s Staircase
Another remarkable destination near Fort William is Neptune’s Staircase. Located at the end of Loch Linnhe, it marks the beginning of the Caledonian Canal, which connects to the famous Loch Ness. The lock system allows boats to navigate the significant difference in height, comprising of 8 locks in total. There are several cafes near the locks, allowing visitors to enjoy this remarkable spectacle while having a coffee.
Ben Nevis
Fort William is nestled amidst the stunning Scottish countryside, with Loch Linnhe on one side and the backdrop of Ben Nevis towering behind the town. Ben Nevis, standing at 1,345 meters, is Scotland’s highest mountain and a beloved destination for hikers and nature enthusiasts. The mountain is even tall enough to offer skiing opportunities in winter, with a lift to the summit. The Nevis Range Mountain Gondola takes you to the top of Scotland’s highest peak in just 15 minutes, offering breathtaking views over Loch Linnhe. For £25, you can purchase a pass allowing you to ride up and down the mountain all day.
Camper parking Fort William
You can visit Fort William with a camper, and there are several beautiful options available. We personally choose to park next to the Lidl, conveniently close to the town center and shops, all for just £5 per night. For those who prefer to stay at a campsite, unfortunately, there are no options by the lake. However, we find a lovely campsite nestled among the hills and at the foot of Ben Nevis.
In summary, Fort William is a charming town situated in a stunning environment, offering something for everyone. If you’re seeking more inspiration for your camper trip in Scotland, be sure to check out our other Scottish destinations.