Glencoe

The Majestic Glencoe Mountains of Scotland

Glencoe is known as one of the most beautiful locations in the Highlands, if not in the entire country. Once you’ve experienced these valleys for yourself, it’s easy to see why. Out of all of the epic locations in Scotland, Glencoe is one that visitors of Scotland often rave about the most (and remember most when they head home).

The landscape of Glencoe and the surrounding area is truly unique and was created from an ancient super volcano that erupted roughly 420 million years ago. From that volcanic explosion, the beauty of Glencoe was created, and we are forever grateful!

If you ever find yourself in Edinburgh or somewhere else in Scotland on holiday, make sure to visit this unbelievable place that’s a strong favourite amongst our Scotland tour guides.

In this article, we’ll explore some of the best places to visit while visiting the Glencoe region, some fantastic hikes you should go on and views that are not to be missed.

Buachaille Etive Mor

a view of the imposing Buachaille Etive Mor mountain known as the Great Heardsman of Etive looking across the open expanse of Rannoch Moor on a tour of Scotland

The Three Sisters Mountains at Glencoe

The first view many visitors get of Glencoe is when they’re confronted with the grandeur of the Great Herdman of Etive, Buachaille Etive Mor. What an imposing sight as you drive over the open expanse of Rannoch Moor and up ahead is the Great Herdsman guarding the entrance of Glencoe like a bouncer to an exclusive club.

All around you as you approach Buachaille Etive Mor, is the magnificent Rannoch Moor, one of the last remaining true wilderness locations in Scotland. This open expanse of moorland is a site of special scientific interest and home to huge populations of red deer. Of all the places to see deer in Scotland, this may be the best (make sure to visit the King’s House for more chances of seeing deer in the day).

a view of the Three Sisters mountains in glencoe in the Scottish Highalands with snow on top.

The three sisters welcome you as soon as you turn the corner into the famous Glen. A prominent feature in the landscape, they bring walkers in from all over the world who visit here to hike the mountain paths year-round.

No wonder, what a sight! You don’t even have to go for a hike to see these three beauties though. You can snap an incredible picture like the one above from the 3 sisters’ viewpoint along the road that cuts through Glencoe.

Also from this location is the start to the wonderful Hidden Valley hike which takes you deep into the mountains to a location it’s said the MacDonald Clan would hide the cattle they stole from their neighbours. All in all, it’s around a 3-4 hour hike and absolutely worth it. After leading groups into the Hidden Valley many times, I’m still unsure how the clan could lead themselves there in the dark, let alone with stolen cattle!

waterfalls in the highlands of Scotland near Glencoe from the walking path, on our highlands of Scotland guided tour

Glencoe Waterfall & the Meeting of the Three Waters

Just in case you didn’t know, Scotland is known for getting more than its fair share of rain. But there are some serious benefits to the amount of rain we receive in Scotland. Lots of rain here is the cause of the wide number of vibrant shades of green we get as well as the incredible waterfalls that at some points in the year can rage into an impressive force.

Glencoe is home to a wonderful variety of waterfalls. The most famous of them all are the Glencoe Waterfalls - found just off the A82 while driving through the valley. They’ve become somewhat of an Instagram photo shoot spot as the small pools at the top of the waterfall offer an opportunity for a quick dip and a panorama of the Glencoe valley stretching out behind.

Follow the river up further and you’ll find plenty of secluded pools and stretches of river perfect for a wee wild swim. The first time I discovered this location I spent the entire day exploring and swimming (on a lovely summer day) and have likened it to a natural waterpark ever since. A must-see location to experience!

Also notable is the Meeting of the Three Waters. Near the base of the Three Sisters mountains is where water meets from 3 different sources within Glencoe, hence the name of the falls.

After heavy rainfall, these waterfalls rage to an impressive degree - make sure to stop by on your trip to Glencoe.

View of the pap of Glencoe in the Highlands on a tour of Scotland

The Paps of Glencoe

Pap, if you weren’t aware, is another name for breast. Now, while I can see clearly where the name came from - the nipple of Glencoe as it were, I’m often wondering why every other mountain doesn’t have a similar name?

Regardless, this prominent feature in the landscape, on the western end of Glencoe, has a very popular walk that provides spectacular views of Glencoe, Kinlochleven and the surrounding area.

James Bond in Glencoe

Movie & TV Series Filmed in Glencoe

  • The Harry Potter Movies

  • Outlander

  • James Bond’s Skyfall

  • Highlander

  • Monty Python

  • Netflix’s Outlaw King

  • Netflix’s Mary Queen of Scots

view of Glencoe Lochan and mountains on a tour of the Scottish Highlands

For your convenience, here’s a quick rundown of some of the most beautiful places to visit in the Glencoe area;

  • Three Sisters Mountains

  • Pap of Glencoe

  • Glen Etive

  • Glencoe Waterfalls

  • Devil’s Staircase

  • Glencoe Visitor Centre

  • Glencoe Lochan

  • Hidden Valley

  • Signal Rock and An Torr

Hopefully, you’ve been inspired to go take a look for yourself and revel in the unforgettable Glencoe. I live in Scotland, have driven through Glencoe countless times and never tire of seeing those famed mountains. Make seeing Glencoe a priority on your next trip to Scotland.

If you need some inspiration, we’ve compiled a list of EPIC itineraries through Scotland based on our tours. You can download the booklet for free by clicking on the picture down below.