Today was the shortest day, 14.4 km which in the end took me just under 3 and a half hours.
There was no need to leave until 11:30 a.m.
The Kingshouse Hotel remained in sight for some time as I ventured further into the Glencoe Valley. This area was used for some scenes in the James Bond movie, Skyfall.
I really enjoyed my stay at this hotel. I understand there was some local controversy when it was greatly modernized and expanded in about 2019. The original structure still remains and gets its name from the fact that it was used to house retaliatory government troops after the failed rebellion of 1745.
After about 5km the second iconic climb of the West Highland Way began (after Conic Hill on the second day). The Devil’s Staircase does not owe its name to the steepness of its climb, but it should not be underestimated either. It’s pretty much straight for a while until you hit the switch that takes you to the highest point of the Camino at 550m.
There were quite a few people at the top, which wasn’t surprising given the incredible 360° views.
After that I began a long and fairly slow descent of about 8km to the village of Kinlochleven.
Overall, my body has held up pretty well on this adventure, but my smaller toes have taken a bit of damage. I invested in some ibuprofen in town. The taxi I had booked arrived at 4.15pm to take me back to Kingshouse where I prepared for tomorrow’s final push.
This website contains affiliate links, which means The Trek may receive a percentage of any products or services you purchase using links in articles or advertisements. The buyer pays the same price they would otherwise pay, and their purchase helps support The Trek’s ongoing goal of bringing you quality backpacking information and advice. Thank you for your support!
For more information, visit the About page of this site.
