Glencoe: hikes, viewpoints and tips

Glencoe This is undoubtedly the most spectacular valley in Scotland. Between its steep mountains, waterfalls, and tragic history, it impresses every traveler who ventures through the Highlands. Here are our favorite hikes, must-see viewpoints, and our advice as a travel agency based in Scotland to help you plan your visit.

In short: Glencoe is a valley in the West Highlands, about a 2.5-hour drive from Glasgow and 30 minutes from Fort William. It's famous for its peaks, such as Buachaille Etive Mòr and the Three Sisters, and for the massacre of 1692. Allow at least half a day, and ideally an overnight stay, for hiking. The A82 road runs through the entire valley.

Why visit the Glencoe Valley?

Shaped by volcanoes and then glaciers, the valley offers some of the most dramatic scenery in the UK. Furthermore, it lies on the route between Glasgow, Fort William, and the Isle of Skye, making it easy to include in a road trip in Scotland.

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Film buffs will also recognize sets from Harry Potter and James Bond. Discover our Harry Potter locations in Scotland.

The story of the Glencoe massacre

On February 13, 1692, soldiers who had been staying with the MacDonalds for several days turned against their hosts on government orders. Approximately 38 members of the clan were killed, and others later died of exposure in the mountains. This betrayal of hospitality still haunts the Scottish memory. To understand this context, read our guide on...’history of Scottish clans.

The most beautiful viewpoints in the valley

• Buachaille Etive Mòr This pyramidal mountain guards the eastern entrance to the valley. The view from the waterfall near the Kings House Hotel is one of the most photographed in Scotland.
• The Three Sisters : three imposing buttresses overlook the A82 road. Stop in one of the designated parking areas.
• Glen Etive This small, dead-end road winds along a river to Loch Etive. It notably appears in the film Skyfall.
• Glencoe Lochan : a small lake surrounded by pine trees, accessible by an easy walk near the village.

The best hikes

Hiking	Level	Duration
Glencoe Lochan	Easy, for families	approximately 1 hour
Lost Valley (Chur Gabhail)	Medium, rocky passage	approximately 3 hours
Devil's Staircase, on the West Highland Way	Average, steady climb	2 to 3 hours round trip
Pap of Glencoe	Difficult, steep slope	4 to 5 hours
Buachaille Etive Mòr	Difficult, mountain experience required	7 to 8 hours

Lost Valley is our favorite. Legend has it that the MacDonalds hid stolen cattle there. In the mountains, however, the weather changes very quickly: always bring warm and waterproof clothing. For more ideas, see our The most beautiful hikes in the Highlands.

What else is there to do in Glencoe?

• Visit the visitor center of National Trust for Scotland, which presents the history and geology of the valley.
• Discover the small Glencoe Folk Museum, in thatched-roof houses in the village.
• Take the Glencoe Mountain Resort chairlift for the view of Rannoch Moor.
• Dinner at the Clachaig Inn, a historic inn very popular with hikers.

How to get to Glencoe?

• From Glasgow : approximately 2 hours 30 minutes drive via the A82, along Loch Lomond.
• From Edinburgh : approximately 3 hours drive.
• From Fort William approximately 30 minutes.
• Without a car Citylink buses connect Glasgow and Fort William via the valley.

The A82 road is also one of the most beautiful in the country: discover our scenic routes in Scotland. Then, continue towards Fort William, the Glenfinnan Viaduct or the Loch Ness.

When to leave and where to sleep?

From May to September, the days are long and the trails more accessible. Autumn and winter, on the other hand, offer superb light and sometimes snow-capped peaks. Stay in the village of Glencoe, Ballachulish, or Fort William. To help you choose the best season, also read our guide. when to go to Scotland.

Also read: Things to do in Inverness: sightseeing, Culloden and Loch Ness.

Frequently Asked Questions about Glencoe

How long does it take to visit Glencoe?

Half a day is enough to cross the valley and see the main viewpoints. For hiking, however, allow a full day, or even an overnight stay.

Is it possible to visit Glencoe from Edinburgh in one day?

Yes, many excursions depart from Edinburgh, often including Loch Ness. However, it's a long day, with approximately six hours of driving in total.

Where can I see the Harry Potter set in Glencoe?

Hagrid's hut from the third film was built in the valley, near the Clachaig Inn. It was dismantled after filming, but the landscape remains recognizable.

Is Glencoe accessible without a car?

Yes, thanks to the Citylink buses between Glasgow and Fort William. However, a car remains more practical for stopping at the various viewpoints.

Cover photo: Peter S, CC BY-SA 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons.

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