Travel Guide of Glencoe in United Kingdom by Influencers and Travelers

Glencoe or Glencoe Village is the main settlement in Glen Coe in the Lochaber area of the Scottish Highlands. It lies at the north-west end of the glen, on the southern bank of the River Coe where it enters Loch Leven.

The Best Things to Do and Visit in Glencoe

TRAVELERS TOP 10 :

1 - Ballachulish

The village of Ballachulish in Lochaber, Highland, Scotland, is centred on former slate quarries. The name Ballachulish was more correctly applied to the area now called North Ballachulish, to the north of Loch Leven, but was usurped for the quarry villages at East Laroch and West Laroch, either side of the River Laroch, which were actually within Glencoe and South Ballachulish respectively.

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2 - Glen Coe

   8 km away

Glen Coe is a glen of volcanic origins, in the Highlands of Scotland. It lies in the north of the county of Argyll, close to the border with the historic province of Lochaber, within the modern council area of Highland.

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3 - Canyoning in Fort William

   8 km away

Are you up for a new adventure? Inchree Canyon is one of the most exciting canyoning experiences in Scotland! The Fort William Area is a wildly-known centre for outdoor activities due to its proximity to Ben Nevis, the highest mountain in the Br...

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4 - Fort William

   10 km away

Fort William is a town in Lochaber in the Scottish Highlands, located on the eastern shore of Loch Linnhe. As of the 2011 Census, Fort William had a population of 10,459, making it the second largest settlement in the Highland council area, and the second largest settlement in the whole of the Scottish Highlands — only the city of Inverness has a larger population.

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5 - River Coe

The River Coe rises at the north-eastern base of Buachaille Etive Beag in Scotland and flows west along Glen Coe. After dramatic waterfalls at the Pass of Glen Coe, it runs through the small Loch Achtriochtan before it turns north west.

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6 - Vía Ferrata in Fort William

   9 km away

Via Ferrata: The Ultimate high-wire adventure, a route that runs up the side of the second biggest waterfall in Scotland. Staples and cables have been installed into the rock to allow safe access to climb the side of the waterfall. This is the only V...

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7 - Loch Leven

Loch Leven is a fresh water loch located immediately to the east of the burgh of Kinross in Perth and Kinross council area, central Scotland. Roughly triangular, the loch is about 6 km at its longest.

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8 - Glencoe Lochan

Glencoe Lochan is a tract of forest located just north of Glencoe village in the Scottish Highlands. It was planted in the 1890s by Donald Alexander Smith, 1st Baron Strathcona and Mount Royal, with trees transplanted from the Pacific Northwest of Canada.

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9 - Klettersteig in Fort William

   9 km away

Via Ferrata: The Ultimate high-wire adventure, a route that runs up the side of the second biggest waterfall in Scotland. Staples and cables have been installed into the rock to allow safe access to climb the side of the waterfall. This is the only V...

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10 - Loch Achtriochtan, Glencoe

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11 - Steall Waterfall

   12 km away

The spectacular waterfall known variously as An Steall Bàn, Steall Waterfall or Steall Falls is situated in Glen Nevis near Fort William, Highland, Scotland.

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12 - Via Ferrata in Fort William

   9 km away

Via Ferrata: The Ultimate high-wire adventure, a route that runs up the side of the second biggest waterfall in Scotland. Staples and cables have been installed into the rock to allow safe access to climb the side of the waterfall. This is the only V...

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13 - Buachaille Etive Mòr

   12 km away

Buachaille Etive Mòr, generally known to climbers simply as The Buachaille, is a mountain at the head of Glen Etive in the Highlands of Scotland.

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14 - Ben Nevis

   14 km away

Ben Nevis is the highest mountain in the British Isles, the summit is 1,345 metres above sea level. Ben Nevis stands at the western end of the Grampian Mountains in the Lochaber area of the Scottish Highlands, close to the town of Fort William.

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15 - Surfing in Cornwall

   8 km away

Surfing is one of the most popular and fastest growing board sports. It has deep routes from Hawaii and a long history in the UK as a recognised adventurous activity. The sport of surfing is fun, exhilarating and a great buzz. It is great for fitness...

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16 - Glen Etive

   15 km away

Glen Etive is a glen in the Highlands of Scotland. The River Etive rises on the peaks surrounding Rannoch Moor, with several tributary streams coming together at the Kings House Hotel, at the head of Glen Coe.

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17 - Castle Stalker

   21 km away

Castle Stalker is a four-storey tower house or keep picturesquely set on a tidal islet on Loch Laich, an inlet off Loch Linnhe.

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18 - Loch Etive

   25 km away

Loch Etive is a 30 km sea loch in Argyll and Bute, Scotland. It reaches the sea at Connel, 5 km north of Oban. It measures 31.6 km long and from 1.2 km to 1.6 km wide. Its depth varies greatly, up to a maximum of 150 m.

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19 - Glenfinnan Viaduct

   29 km away

The Glenfinnan Viaduct is a railway viaduct on the West Highland Line in Glenfinnan, Inverness-shire, Scotland. Located at the top of Loch Shiel in the West Highlands of Scotland, the viaduct overlooks the Glenfinnan Monument and the waters of Loch Shiel.

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20 - Memorial to the Jacobites

   29 km away
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21 - Loch Lochy

   33 km away

Loch Lochy is a large freshwater loch in Lochaber, Highland, Scotland. With a mean depth of 70 m, it is the third-deepest loch of Scotland.

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22 - Lismore

   33 km away
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Pictures and Stories of Glencoe from Influencers

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Why should you visit Glencoe ?

Travel to Glencoe if you like:

  ❄️ Glacial landform     ⛰️ Highland     ⛰️ Hill     ❄️ Tundra     🏞️ Waterfall     ⛰️ Mountain  

How to visit Glencoe ?

Why travel to Glencoe?

Glencoe is a stunning and dramatic glen (valley) in the Scottish Highlands, offering breathtaking scenery, a rich history, and outstanding outdoor activities. It is one of the most famous and beautiful places in Scotland, drawing visitors from around the world. Traveling to Glencoe is a must for nature lovers, history buffs, and adventure enthusiasts.

How to get there?

The nearest airports to Glencoe are Glasgow and Inverness. From there, you can rent a car and drive to Glencoe (approximately a 2-hour drive from Glasgow and 2.5 hours from Inverness). Alternatively, you can take a train to Fort William, which is 30 minutes away from Glencoe, and then take a local bus or taxi to the village. The scenic West Highland Line train journey from Glasgow to Fort William is an unforgettable experience in itself.

What to book in advance?

It is advisable to book accommodations in advance, especially during peak tourist season (May to September), as Glencoe is a popular destination. If you plan on participating in guided outdoor activities, such as hiking, mountain biking, or wildlife tours, it's also a good idea to book these in advance.

What are the costs?

The costs of visiting Glencoe can vary greatly depending on your travel preferences. Accommodation options range from budget-friendly hostels and self-catering cottages to upscale hotels. Dining options are also available at various price points. Many popular attractions, such as the Glencoe Visitor Centre and the Lost Valley hike, are free to access, though donations are encouraged.

Best things to do

1. Hiking: Glencoe offers numerous hiking trails for all skill levels, including the iconic Three Sisters, the Lost Valley, and the Pap of Glencoe.
2. Glen Etive Drive: This scenic drive along the River Etive offers stunning views and plenty of photo opportunities, including the famous James Bond Skyfall location.
3. Glencoe Visitor Centre: Learn about the area's history, geology, and wildlife at this informative visitor center.
4. Wildlife watching: Look out for red deer, golden eagles, and other native species as you explore the glen.
5. Outdoor activities: Try mountain biking, rock climbing, or even skiing at nearby Glencoe Mountain Resort.

Where to eat?

1. Lochleven Seafood Cafe: Enjoy fresh, locally-sourced seafood in a beautiful lochside setting.
2. Clachaig Inn: This cozy pub offers traditional Scottish fare and a wide selection of local beers and whiskies.
3. Glencoe Cafe: A charming spot for breakfast or lunch, serving homemade food with a focus on local ingredients.

Where to stay?

1. Glencoe House: A luxurious hotel featuring elegant suites with stunning views.
2. Glencoe Independent Hostel: A budget-friendly option with both private rooms and dormitories, located in the heart of Glencoe.
3. Ballachulish Hotel: A historic hotel on the shores of Loch Leven, offering comfortable rooms and a relaxing atmosphere.

Off the Beaten Path

For an unusual travel experience, take a guided kayak tour on Loch Leven with local operators such as Vertical Descents. Paddle through the tranquil waters, surrounded by the majestic mountains, and explore the hidden coastline and wildlife. This is a unique way to experience the beauty of Glencoe and its surroundings up close and personal.

Learn More about Glencoe

Located in the beautiful Lochaber Geopark in the Highlands Glencoe

The deep valley and towering mountains of Glen Coe were carved centuries ago by glaciers and volcanic explosions.
The picturesque village of Glencoe lies between the banks of Loch Leven and the entrance to the famous glen.
This makes it the ideal base for exploring the Lochaber region, known as the outdoor capital of the UK.

DISCOVER THE GLEN'S TURBULENT PAST

The road through Glen Coe takes you into the heart of an ancient volcano.
Follow the Glen Coe Geotrail to learn how glaciers and volcanic explosions carved the steep peaks of the glen's mountains.

VISIT ICONIC FILMING LOCATIONS

Glen Coe is one of Scotland's most beautiful and supernatural locations. It even appears in films such as Skyfall (James Bond) and several Harry Potter films.
The small village of the Highlands located in "the most beautiful Scottish valley"

The valley of Glencoe is truly one of the most beautiful in Scotland

It is once again a haven for walkers and keen climbers, as it is the perfect base camp for hiking in the vast territories of the Highlands.

It has also been the location for many films including "Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban" and "Skyfall", one of the latest in the James Bond saga.
The village of Glencoe is not necessarily of great interest during a stay in Scotland.
It has an interesting folk museum and some nice pubs but the most impressive part of the village is its environment: the Pap of Glencoe, a cone-shaped mountain peak, which dominates it at 730 meters above sea level. 

Alternating grassy or rocky peaks and perfectly curved slopes

located on the main tourist route from Glasgow to the Highlands in the north.
The landscapes are unforgettable when the sky is threatening.
It is possible to find many impressive trails such as the Devil's Staircase, the West Highland Way.
It is also one of the most popular ski resorts in Scotland.

Frequently Asked Questions by Travelers planning a trip to Glencoe

What are the best activities in Glencoe?

Our list of the best activities in Glencoe

• Soak up the spectacular Highland scenery and experience Scottish wildlife.
• Visit the Glencoe Visitor Center and recharge your batteries before heading out to explore the glen.
• Stroll through Glen Coe or climb some Munros.
• Ski, snowboard, and mountain bike at Glencoe Mountain Resort.
• Kayak on Loch Leven.
• Discover some of the other natural wonders of the Lochaber Geopark, from the parallel roads of Glen Roy to the enchanting islands of Canna, Eigg, Muck, and Rum
• Visit Fort William, the outdoor capital of the UK.

How do I get around Glencoe?

It's easy to get around on foot, but you can take buses or cabs to explore further afield.
If you don't have your vehicle, you can rent a car to explore the area.

How do I get to Glencoe?

The road to Glencoe is one of the most spectacular in Scotland.
The main road to the north runs through the famous glen, while the southern road passes through Fort William and takes you to Ben Nevis, the largest mountain in the UK.

It takes just over two hours to reach Glencoe from Glasgow by car, and Fort William is only half an hour away.
There are regular bus services from Glasgow and Fort William.
You can also take the train to Fort William or Bridge of Orchy and then take the bus to Glencoe. 

Land at Glasgow or Inverness airports and travel to Glencoe.

   Where to Stay in Glencoe

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Discover more travel spots to explore around Glencoe

  ⛰️ Hill spots     ⛰️ Highland spots     ⛰️ Mountain spots     ❄️ Tundra spots     ❄️ Glacial landform spots     ⛰️ Hill station spots     🏞️ Loch spots     🏞️‍ Waterfall spots     ⛰️ Mountain range spots     🌲 Forest spots  

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