Travel Plan
Glencoe

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ATTRACTION GUIDE · SCOTTISH HIGHLANDS

Glencoe

Scotland's most dramatic glen, with towering mountains and a haunting history.

Tickets & tours Open in Google Maps
Time needed
Half a day
Entry
Free
Best time
May–September
Area
Glencoe

The Highlands' most dramatic valley, with towering peaks and waterfalls.

Where it is & how to get there

Address: Glencoe, Ballachulish PH49 4HX

  • From Glasgow: About 2.5 hours by car along the A82, or by Citylink bus.
  • From Edinburgh: About 3 hours; many day tours include Glencoe.
  • Visitor centre: Start at the National Trust for Scotland visitor centre for maps and history.

The story of Glencoe

Glencoe is a deep valley carved by glaciers and volcanoes, guarded by mountains such as the Three Sisters and Buachaille Etive Mòr. It is one of the most famous landscapes in Scotland.

In 1692, soldiers killed members of the MacDonald clan who had sheltered them, an event remembered as the Glencoe Massacre. Today the glen is loved by hikers, photographers and climbers.

Best time to visit

Best season

May to September; autumn for colours.

Best time of day

Morning or evening for soft light.

Weather

Changes fast; bring waterproofs.

Tips before you go

  • Stop at the Three Sisters viewpoint on the A82 road.
  • Stop at the Three Sisters viewpoint on the A82.
  • Walk the Glencoe Lochan trail for an easy forest loop.

Best hotels near Glencoe

Well-known hotels within easy reach. Check prices and availability for your dates.

Inverlochy Castle Hotel

Castle hotel near Fort William and Glencoe.

See prices

Rocpool Reserve

Boutique hotel in Inverness.

See prices

Kinloch Lodge

Country house hotel on the Isle of Skye.

See prices
All hotels near Glencoe

What's around Glencoe

  • Three SistersIconic mountain viewpoint.
  • Glencoe LochanEasy forest walk.
  • Fort WilliamTown 30 minutes north.
  • Ben NevisBritain's highest mountain.

Questions travellers ask

How far is Glencoe from Glasgow?

About 2.5 hours by car.

Are there easy walks?

Yes, like the Glencoe Lochan trail.

What happened at Glencoe?

The 1692 massacre of members of the MacDonald clan.

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Travel Plan · Glencoe Travel times, prices and opening hours change. Check official sites before you go. Photos: Unsplash. Privacy & disclosure