Walking the WHW next year...

[lookatgiraffenow]

The West Highland Way, that is.
Have you walked it? How much prep/training did you do beforehand? Was it brilliant or were you glad it was over?!
My accomodation is sorted due to family friends living along the route which is fantastic. And I know about the midges and the correct kit I need to take. I want to do it over 8-10 days in 2023.
Any tips, advice or thoughts gratefully received! Thanks :)

It's great, I highly recommend it.
Eight to ten days is generous so you should find that comfortable and not have to do a crazy amount each day.
Prep I would say get out hillwalking for a few weeks beforehand. Make sure your boots are well broken and take Compeed with you - that's a must.
You might find your feet get more aching and painful over the first few days, don't panic, that eases off, they're just getting used to it.
Definitely use a baggage carrying service and just take a day pack, far more enjoyable.
Make sure you have Smidge for if it's midgied.

Love it.
Surprisingly some of the hardest and frustratingly slowest miles are up the side of Loch Lomond. The path there is rough. Don’t assume it’ll always be like that. Further north it’s actually an easier path (although hillier from Glencoe up to ft William).
I was out running in the section just south of ft William this summer and it was hot. There’s little shade. Many walkers were struggling with the heat believe it or not.

Ah yes, defo using a baggage service.

If I was going to do it again I’d want to be walking on rough ground 8mi or so every weekend for 5/6 weeks plus lots of daily steps. Your feet need toughening if you’re not used to rough ground. The path is quite hard/rocky.