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Glencoe
Lagangarbh Hut, Glencoe
One of Scotland's most scenic and famous Highland glens.
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Glencoe

Located within the awe-inspiring Lochaber Geopark in the Highlands, the deep valley and towering mountains of Glen Coe were carved out centuries ago by icy glaciers and volcanic explosions.

Glencoe village is picturesquely located between the banks of Loch Leven and the mouth of the famous glen, making it the perfect base for exploring the area of Lochaber, known as the Outdoor Capital of the UK.

Discover the glen's explosive past

The road through Glen Coe takes you through the heart of an ancient volcano. Follow the Glen Coe Geotrail to find out more about how glaciers and fiery explosions carved out the glen's rugged mountain peaks.

Stumble upon iconic film locations

Glen Coe is one of the most beautiful and other-worldly places in Scotland. It's even featured in films such as James Bond's Skyfall and several Harry Potter movies.

Things to do in Glencoe

  • Absorb spectacular Highland scenery and see Scottish wildlife.
  • Pop into the Glencoe Visitor Centre and grab a bite to eat before you go for a wander in the glen.
  • Walk through Glen Coe or bag a few Munros.
  • Ski, snowboard or mountain bike at the Glencoe Mountain resort.
  • Sea kayak on Loch Leven.
  • Explore some of the other natural wonders in the Lochaber Geopark, from the Parallel Roads of majestic Glen Roy to the enchanting islands of Canna, Eigg, Muck and Rum.
  • Visit Fort William, the Outdoor Capital of the UK.

Quick links

Visiting the Highlands of Scotland

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VisitScotland Brilliant Moments cyclist embarks on a tour of Scotland. On Route on the A861 at Moidart © Ian Rutherford
Cyclist rides the A861 at Moidart © Ian Rutherford

ARDNAMURCHAN & THE WEST HIGHLAND PENINSULAS

Join one of Scotland's favourite travel bloggers, The Chaotic Scot, as she explores this romantic coastal part of the Highlands. On the way she uncovers the area's many gems including revitalising wellness activities, secluded beaches, whisky distilleries and a very famous lighthouse. 

Follow Kay's latest adventures on Instagram and Facebook

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Glenfinnan musicians Iain MacFarlane & Ingrid Henderson

Scottish traditional music

Traditional songs and Gaelic music have been at the heart of Scottish culture for centuries and it has never been more important to support our many creative talents. So put on your dancing shoes and get ready for some foot-stomping tunes as you travel through Scotland to the sounds of the most exciting contemporary folk musicians and singers.

Listen to trad music
Sally Dowden, who owns Speyside Wildlife
Sally Dowden, who owns Speyside Wildlife

Plan a 3-day trip to the Highlands with Sally's recommendations

These suggestions are provided by local business owner, Sally Dowden, who owns Speyside Wildlife based in Grantown-on-Spey in the north of the Cairngorms National Park. Meet Sally, and plan a trip to the Highlands.

See Sally in our video!

Plan a trip now
Dancers taking part in the Aboyne Highland Games to the sounds of bagpipes
Aboyne Highland Games, Deeside. Pic: Rob McDougall

Highland games

Held in communities across the country, Highland games are thrilling spectacles of tradition, colour and passion. See heavy athletes toss the caber, graceful Highland dancers, and pipe band marches. Maybe you'll even join in a tug-of-war? It's a day-out that'll definitely put a smile on your face.
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Kingussie v Fort William, Camanachd Cup semi final played at An Aird, Fort William

Shinty

A sport which is at the heart of many communities across the Highlands, shinty is played with wooden sticks and a ball and has been compared with field hockey. This ancient sport runs in the blood and often you'll find different generations of the same family in teams.
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Insh Shinty Team (1892) - Image: Highland Folk Museum, High Life Highland
(c) Highland Folk Museum, High Life Highland

Follow the Shinty Trail

Follow the Shinty Trail, a fantastic interactive storytelling guide to the shinty heritage of Badenoch, in the Cairngorms National Park. Through this online journey, you will discover the history of the sport and its ties with the heritage and culture of Badenoch!

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The Torridon Hills at Upper Loch Torridon
The Torridon Hills at Upper Loch Torridon

Highlands and Islands named in Lonely Planet's 'Best in Travel' 2019

Scotland's Highlands and Islands, which includes the Outer Hebrides, Moray Speyside and Aberdeenshire, have been named a top 10 region in Lonely Planet's Best in Travel 2019. The prestigious global accolade encapsulates the areas' fantastic natural scenery, attractions and experiences. Discover scenic road trips, island hopping, city life and more.
Read the blog

Discover Lochaber on video

Things to do in Lochaber0:34

Explore the great activities and outdoor adventures available in Lochaber

Lochaber's Coasts & Mountains0:31

Explore Lochaber's coastline, stunning landscapes and mountain ranges

Shop local in Lochaber0:34

Support your local businesses and shop local in Lochaber

Lochaber Food & Drink0:37

Explore Lochaber's eateries, bars, restaurants and tasty local produce

Explore Glencoe

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© Glencoe Activities
 Rock climbing with Glencoe Activities © Glencoe Activities
Glencoe, The Highlands
 Looking out over the water and the trees at Glencoe in the Highlands
Skiing at Glencoe Mountain Resort, Lochaber, Highlands
(c) Brodie Hood Photography
 Skiing at Glencoe Mountain Resort, Lochaber, Highlands
Buachaille Etive Mor, Glencoe
 Red deer in front of Buachaille Etive Mor, Glencoe

Travel in Glencoe

Getting here

The route to Glencoe is one of the most spectacular in Scotland. The main road north runs through the famous glen itself, whereas travelling south, through Fort William, will take you past Ben Nevis, the UK's highest mountain.

The drive from Glasgow to Glencoe takes just over two hours while Fort William is only half an hour away. Regular bus services also run from Glasgow and Fort William, or you can take the train to Fort William or Bridge of Orchy and travel to Glencoe by bus. Fly into the airports at Glasgow or Inverness and travel on from there.

Get yourself to Glencoe now!

Getting around

It's easy to explore the area on foot, or you can use local buses or taxis to go further. If you don't have your own wheels you could hire a car to explore further afield too.

Plan your trip around Glencoe

Still got questions?

Share your stunning snaps using #glencoe and #visitscotland!