Hike amid stunning natural scenery in one of Scotland’s most famous glens, famous for its beauty and infamous for its history.
Glencoe features an enchanting blend of green mountain peaks, craggy ridges and rushing rivers. The site of a notorious massacre in the 17th century, the glen is known for its remarkable beauty and dark history. Experience picturesque walks and hikes, paddle on a beautiful loch or take a challenging climb or mountain biking excursion.
Glencoe is the place where the resident MacDonalds were murdered by the Campbells in 1692. The Campbells were accepted as guests by the MacDonalds and, apparently acting on order from the British crown, the Campbells murdered their hosts. Head to the Glencoe Visitor Centre to discover the story behind this infamous event. The center also features interactive displays about the glen’s geology and history, as well as details of walking routes.
Try the gentle Signal Rock walk, which begins not far from the visitor center. This 1.5-mile (2.5-kilometer) walk winds through scenic woodland in the central part of the glen, culminating at the location where the signal was supposedly given to begin the massacre in 1692.
Encompassing Loch Leven and the River Coe, the glen is also an excellent spot for watersports. Enjoy an exhilarating whitewater rafting excursion or rent a kayak and paddle over the shimmering waters of Loch Leven.
Ride the chairlift at the Glencoe Mountain Resort to see wonderful views over the Rannoch Moor. The resort offers terrain geared toward skiers of varying abilities, from beginner slopes to Scotland’s steepest black runs. Open year-round, the chairlift also provides access to some superb black and red downhill mountain biking tracks. Find less intense biking trails in Glenachulish, Duror or Inchree, as well as near Glencoe and Ballachulish villages.
Glencoe is 16 miles (26 kilometers) south of Fort William. Drive in from the south, which offers the most scenic approach. The region is well connected to Glasgow, Fort William and Kinlochleven by bus. The closest train stations are in Bridge of Orchy and Fort William. Enjoy the spectacular natural beauty of this iconic glen.
