Spean Bridge

Situated barely 10 miles from Fort William, Spean Bridge is the last stop on the route of the West Highland Railway Line. The village was named for 'High Bridge' which was constructed by General Wade more than a mile from the latterly constructed 'Spean Bridge'. Unfortunately, the bridge from which the town took its name collapsed into the firth in 1913. Spean Bridge is well known as having been the location for the training of Allied Commandos during World War II, when thousands of soldiers were based at the Achnacarry Castle in order to undergo training in the nearby lochs and mountains. There is a famous bronze, the Commando Memorial, erected to these brave troops a mile from Spean Bridge off the A82, this landmark should not be omitted from your itinerary during your visit in this picturesque area. Views of the eastern mountains, in particular of Aonach Mor and Ben Nevis, are spectacular and 10 minutes away from the village is the Nevis Range centre. Spean Bridge is well equipped and boasts several shops and bistros, a tourist centre and a number of self-catering cottages that are just perfect for cosy village holidays all year around. There is also a golf club in the village and limitless cycling and waking routes are offered by the Leannachan Forest. From the north side of the Clyde stands the beautiful Kilmonivaig Church, where the churchyard forms a peaceful oasis and the views are even more spectacular. Spean Bridge is a good base from which to explore the surrounding area and is also where the A82/A86 junction to Kingussie, the Cairngorms and Aviemore is located.