AN acclaimed Scottish walk which crosses through Argyll has received international recognition – and Argyll and Bute Council hopes that this will lead even more walkers to visit the area and discover its many delights.

The West Highland Way has been included in National Geographic’s list of top treks around the world – dubbed the ‘holy grail of trails’.

It was chosen because of its cultural significance and range of scenery as well as the variety of challenges it offers walkers – encompassing lowland moors, dense woodland, rolling hills and higher mountains.

Thousands of people walk the West Highland Way each year from its official starting point at Milngavie to the end point in Fort William – with the Argyll leg of the walk at Bridge of Orchy.

And, once they have conquered the 154-kilometre hike, if they stray off the path and venture further into Argyll and Bute they will discover the area’s host of other walks and trails.

Argyll and Bute offers something to suit every walker’s taste – from the atmospheric heritage trail in Kilmartin to the waterfalls of Puck’s Glen in Cowal; Bute’s painted rocks walk to the Kintyre Way which covers the whole of the dramatic Kintyre peninsula; and a plethora of other places to walk and hike, both on and off the beaten track.

Lead councillor for community and culture, Louise Glen-Lee, said: “The West Highland Way is one of Scotland’s most popular hikes and it is great to see that it is internationally recognised.

“Those who have completed the West Highland Way will already have seen a little of what Argyll and Bute has to offer, and I would encourage everyone who enjoys walking to come and try it for themselves. We truly do have something to suit everyone and our great variety of walks and trails are also among the very best in the world.”