A Highland Toast

Raise a glass to Scotland's beauty along the West Highland Way, where whisky and wilderness go hand in hand

- EUAN DUGUID

I CAN'T wait to tackle the West Highland Way again this summer - my third traverse on Scotland's most famous long-distance trail.

This time, the adventure is about more than just the landscapes - it's about the company.

I'll be walking with my three prodigal brothers - Gillon, Jamie and Fraser (the former two live overseas and the latter in the Big Smoke). My mum, Anne, who is walking the trail for the first time, joins us. Dad Scottie will handle logistics as our support driver.

Having learned from past journeys that preparation is everything, I have taken on the task of selecting the perfect whiskies to accompany each leg of the journey.

And each dram reflects the character of each day's route.

Day 1: Milngavie to Balmaha, Glengoyne 10-year-old

Our adventure begins in Milngavie, just a short train ride from Glasgow. The trail eases you in with gentle woodland paths and open farmland, skirting the Campsie Fells. As we reach the shores of Loch Lomond, the climb up Conic Hill and over the Highland Boundary Fault opens up to stunning panoramic views.