Glencoe (Glen Coe)

Overview

Glencoe, also known as Glen Coe, is a glen in the Highlands of Scotland. It is often considered one of the most spectacular and beautiful places in Scotland, known for its dramatic landscapes and historical significance.

Glencoe is renowned for its natural beauty and historical importance, particularly the Massacre of Glencoe in 1692.

Hiking Nature History

Location

Address

Glencoe, Ballachulish

Neighborhood: Scottish Highlands

Coordinates

56.658900, -5.072000

Visiting Information

Opening Hours

monday 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM

tuesday 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM

wednesday 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM

thursday 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM

friday 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM

saturday 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM

sunday 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM

Admission

Adults

Free (some trails may have parking fees)

Children

Free

Best Time to Visit

Overall Best Period

May-September

Best Time of Day

Early morning

fewer crowds, better lighting for photography

Duration Recommendations

Minimum

2 hours

Recommended

4-5 hours

Full Experience

2 days

Seasonal Highlights

spring

mild to cool

• waterfalls
• spring wildflowers

summer

warm

• long daylight hours

autumn

cool

• fall foliage

winter

cold

• snow landscapes

Know Before You Go

Essential Information

Check weather conditions
Bring appropriate gear
Respect the environment

What to Bring

essential

hiking boots water map

seasonal

warm clothing rain gear

not allowed

littering off-trail hiking in sensitive areas

Health & Safety

Physical Requirements: moderate to high

• altitude sickness possible
• uneven terrain

Medical facilities: nearest hospital in Fort William

Payment Information

Accepted

cash, cards

Currency

GBP (British Pound)

Typical Costs

parking £3

food £10-£20

souvenirs £5-£15

Dress Code

comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing, layered clothing, hiking boots, sturdy hiking boots, inappropriate clothing for hiking

Booking Tips

• Not usually required, but check for guided tours
• official tourism websites
• varies by tour operator
• not applicable

Amenities

Restrooms

Gift shop

Atm

Wifi

Lockers

Wheelchair rental

Stroller rental

On site restaurant

Cafe

Picnic areas

Outside food allowed

Digital Services

Mobile App

VisitScotland

Size: 30 MB

Features: Map, Trail guides, Weather updates

Platforms: iOS, Android

WiFi Zones: Visitor center, Local cafes

Charging Stations: Visitor center

How to Reach

From Airport

Nearest: Glasgow Airport

Distance: 120 km

Travel Time: 2 hours

taxi

£150 2 hours

public_transport

£20 3 hours

From City Center

Distance: varies

bus

£10-£15 2-3 hours

train

£15-£25 2-3 hours

taxi

£80-£100 1.5-2 hours

Local Insights

Cultural Context

Why Locals Love It: Breathtaking scenery, rich history

Historical Significance: Site of the Massacre of Glencoe

Insider Tips

Best views at sunrise
Local cafes offer great Scottish breakfasts

Local Recommendations

• Visit the Clachaig Inn for local food
• Ask for local guides

Language Help

Useful Phrases

hello Halo

thank_you Tapadh leat

where_is Càite a bhios

how_much Dè an tìoram

beautiful Math dìon

ticket ticeat

Guide Languages: English, Gaelic

Photography Guide

Best Photo Spots

Three Sisters viewpoint

Best Time: Golden hour

Tips: Wide-angle shots

Result: Stunning landscape

#Glencoe #ScottishHighlands #Hiking

Photography Rules

allowed areas all outdoor areas

prohibited areas none

flash photography allowed

commercial photography permit needed

drone policy allowed with CAA approval

tripod policy allowed

selfie sticks allowed

Nearby Attractions

Glencoe Visitor Centre

Distance: 0.5km

Walking: 7 min

Type: Visitor Centre

Ben Nevis

Distance: 20km

Walking: not walkable

Type: Mountain

Loch Leven

Distance: 10km