Discover
Neptune's Staircase and the Caledonian Canal at Banavie
The Caledonian Canal is a major feature in the landscape of
the Great Glen, a natural geological fault line stretching from
Fort William in the south west, to Inverness in the north east.
Here at Fort William, at the southern end of the Great Glen,
the Caledonian Canal allows vessels to enter from Loch Linnhe
and the Atlantic Ocean, and make passage through the Great Glen
by canal lock systems and natural fresh water lochs, including
Loch Ness.
Between Corpach, Banavie, Gairlochy, Loch Lochy and Loch Oich,
the canal provides an opportunity to explore its lock gates
and banks. The Canal also forms part of the Great Glen Cycle
Route.
Watch commercial shipping and pleasure craft navigate the lock
gates at Corpach Basin, Neptune's Staircase at Banavie and Gairlochy
near Spean Bridge for an interesting day out in Lochaber.
All along the Canal route, you can enjoy wonderful views of
Ben Nevis and the Grey Corries, spot birds and wildlife and
generally enjoy the peaceful nature of the Canal Way which is
undergoing a massive investment to re-construct parts this magnificent
engineering project opened in 1822.
There is a great cycle route along one of the Canal banks.
The Great Glen Cycle Route runs along part of
the Canal, as does a very easy walking path. Views of Ben Nevis
and the Grey Corries are fabulous. Along the way there are a
few small businesses offering a variety of services. All photos
Copyright Andrew McKenna
Designed by Thomas Telford
and completed in 1822,
Neptune's Staircase at Banavie elevates vessels 64 feet
above sea-level through
8 locks. To find out lots more about the Caledonian
Canal visit the Tourist Office (HOST) in Fort William
centre.
