How to Spend Two Days in Glencoe, Scotland (2024 Itinerary + Travel Tips)
2-Day Itinerary For Glencoe, Scotland
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Nestled in the heart of the Scottish Highlands, Glencoe is just one of those places that will take your breath away. This mountainous area offers a mix of dramatic scenery and plenty of Scottish history - known for the infamous 1692 Glencoe Massacre and its ties to the Jacobite uprisings. Whether you're interested in tales of the past, an outdoor enthusiast, or simply in need of an escape out in nature, two days in Glencoe is the perfect amount of time to explore this stunning area of Scotland.
Table of Contents
How to Get to Glencoe
Guided Tour Suggestions
Where to Stay Near Glencoe
Best Season to Visit
How Many Days Do I Need in Glencoe?
Two Day Itinerary For Glencoe, Scotland:
Day 1 Guide
Day 2 Guide
Other Must-Do Activities in the Glencoe Area
Best Hikes in the Glencoe Area
Final Thoughts
How to Get to Glencoe
Reaching Glencoe is pretty straightforward, but renting a car is going to be the easiest and most flexible option.
*If you’re planning on renting a car to visit the Scottish Highlands, take a quick browse on RentalCars.com to find a good deal. This site pulls availability and best rates across all major car rental companies.
If you're driving from Edinburgh or Glasgow, the journey will take approximately 2 to 2.5 hours. The route takes you past some of Scotland’s most scenic landscapes, including the shores of Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park.
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Alternatively, you can take a bus from either city to Glencoe Village or the Glencoe Visitor Centre, with bus services provided by Citylink. For those preferring to travel by train (I do not recommend it for Glencoe, as this will require the most planning of transfers), the nearest station is Fort William. From there, a bus ride or taxi will bring you back down into Glencoe.
Or, book a guided tour for a fully-planned experience with zero stress…
Guided Tours to Glencoe
Many guided tours explore the Glencoe area, typically leaving from the three major hubs: Edinburgh, Glasgow or Inverness. These are the current top rated tours:
Where to Stay Near Glencoe
There are plenty of accommodation options in the greater Glencoe area, ranging from charming bed and breakfasts to luxurious hotels. You’ll have no problem finding a stay that suits your travel style! These are my top recommendations:
Image via Booking.com
This inn has welcomed guests for over 300 years! Known for its warm hospitality, cozy low-key accommodations, and lively atmosphere, the Clachaig Inn features three bars with local ales and whiskies, and a menu of hearty Scottish dishes (their haggis, neeps and tatties is my favorite in the whole country). Whether relaxing by the fireplace or enjoying the beer garden's views, the inn perfectly captures the spirit of Glencoe.
Image via Tripadvisor
Nestled in the heart of Glencoe, the Kingshouse Hotel offers guests a unique blend of rustic charm and modern comfort. Its location makes it a perfect base for exploring the stunning landscapes of Glencoe, with easy access to numerous hiking trails and outdoor activities. The hotel itself boasts cozy rooms and a restaurant that serves hearty Scottish fare, providing a warm respite after a day of adventure.
A historic retreat with stunning views of Loch Linnhe. The Ballachulish Hotel features traditional Scottish baronial architecture and comfortable accommodations. Guests can relax by the fireplace in the cozy lounge or enjoy delicious Scottish cuisine in the on-site bistro. It was also fully renovated in the last couple years, showcasing beautiful new room designs and amenities. We stayed here for the first time during a recent autumn trip to the Scottish Highlands, and I was very impressed!
Image via Booking.com
Perched above a river on a private terrace, RiverBeds Luxury Wee Lodges sit within a private estate in Glencoe Valley. Each lodge has its own hot tub (perfect for relaxing after a day of hiking), private bathrooms and a kitchenette with essential amenities. Tiny cottages are very popular throughout the Scottish Highlands! These wee luxury lodges are a perfect choice for those who prefer private stand-alone accommodations over hotels. Bonus: the lodges are dog friendly!
Image via Booking.com
Set against dramatic views of the Pap of Glencoe, the Glencoe House Hotel offers a luxurious getaway within 10 acres of private woodlands. This historic mansion has stylish suites featuring spacious living areas, grand fireplaces, and private hot tubs. Known for its warm hospitality, 5 star luxury experience and peaceful atmosphere, the hotel combines traditional Scottish charm with modern comfort, making it perfect for exploring the Highlands and unwinding in style.
What’s the Best Season to Visit Glencoe?
Glencoe is beautiful year-round, but the best time to visit depends on your interests! Spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) offer mild weather and fewer tourists, making them ideal for hiking and sightseeing. Fall is my personal favorite time of year to visit Glencoe!
Summer (June to August) provides warmer temperatures and longer daylight hours, perfect for exploring the outdoors. However, this is also the busiest season throughout all of Scotland.
Winter (December to February) transforms Glencoe into a snowy wonderland, attracting skiers and winter sports enthusiasts. Each season brings its own unique charm, so choose the time that best suits your favorite activities.
How Many Days Do I Need in Glencoe?
While Glencoe could easily be explored in one day if you’re sticking to the easily-accessible viewpoints, staying overnight allows you to fully soak in the atmosphere and set aside time to go on a longer “hill walk” (a hike) or two. It’s worth it!
If you’re not interested in hiking longer trails into the mountains, then 1-1.5 days is enough time. But with a proper hike or two penciled in, two days will be perfect.
Lagangarbh Hut (the wee white house)
Start of the Glen Etive road, taken in late autumn
Looking past Bidean Nam Bian
Two Day Itinerary For Glencoe, Scotland
Day 1:
Morning: Hike the Lost Valley (Coire Gabhail)
Start your adventure with a hike to the Lost Valley, a gem offering dramatic scenery and a glimpse into the area’s history. The trail begins at the car park near the Pass of Glencoe and takes about 2-3 hours to complete. This moderately challenging hike will lead you through rugged terrain and across streams, culminating in a secluded valley - “Coire Gabhail” - that once served as the location where the MacDonald clan hid their stolen cattle. Don’t forget your camera, the scenery is spectacular. Pack breakfast to have with a view!
Late Morning: Visit the Glencoe Visitor Centre
After your hike, head to the Glencoe Visitor Centre to learn more about the area’s natural history and the infamous Glencoe Massacre of 1692. The center features interactive exhibits, a café for lunch, and a gift shop with local crafts and souvenirs.
Afternoon: Scenic Drive Through Glencoe
In the afternoon, take a leisurely drive along the A82, one of Scotland’s most scenic routes. Stop at various viewpoints to capture photos of landmarks like the Three Sisters of Glencoe viewpoint, The Meeting of Three Waters, and Buachaille Etive Mòr viewpoint. These stops offer stunning, easily-accessible panoramas that highlight the beauty of the glen.
Lagangarbh Hut Photo-Op
Make sure to stop by the iconic Lagangarbh Hut (the wee white house!) during your drive, set against the dramatic backdrop of Buachaille Etive Mòr. This iconic spot is a favorite among photographers and perfectly reflects the rugged beauty of Glencoe. Its surroundings will take your breath away! With some spare time, you can actually take the path all the way out to the wee white hut for a leisurely afternoon stroll.
Late Afternoon: Glencoe Lochan trail
Stop by Glencoe Lochan and explore the easy lakeside trails. At only 1.5 miles round trip, this is a perfect location for a relaxing walk through the woodland and for stunning lakeside photo-ops on a nice day.
Evening: Dinner & Live Music at the Clachaig Inn
End your day with a hearty meal at the Clachaig Inn, a historic establishment known for its warm hospitality and traditional Scottish fare. Enjoy a plate of haggis, neeps, and tatties (my favorite spot for it in the entire country!), paired with a local ale or whisky at the inn’s Boots Bar. This pub has regular live music and burning wood fire for the most cozy and quintessentially “Scottish” setting.
(Stay overnight in the Glencoe area)
Day 2:
Morning: Explore Glen Etive, Loch Etive & the Skyfall Road
Start your second day with a slow-paced scenic drive through Glen Etive, made famous by the James Bond film "Skyfall." This narrow glen offers a peaceful escape and is perfect for a morning wander along the River Etive. Keep an eye out for red deer and other wildlife as you explore this tranquil area. Take your time and wander into the hills and riverbeds, maybe even stopping for a cold plunge to kick off the day!
Late Morning: Scenic Chairlift Ride
Here’s your chance to reach 2200 feet in under 12 minutes without any hiking! Pop over to the Glencoe Mountain Resort once you’re finished with the Glen Etive road for a lift into the mountains. A return ride on the chairlift costs £17 for adults and £12 for children (under 5 are free). Feeling adventurous? Walk just 3/4 of a mile after arriving at the top for a 360 degree view of the surrounding glen.
Early Afternoon: Visit the Glencoe Folk Museum
After your hike, visit the Glencoe Folk Museum in Glencoe Village. This small but charming museum provides a glimpse into local history and culture through a collection of artifacts and exhibits housed in traditional thatched cottages.
Mid Afternoon: Steall Waterfall Hike
Head to nearby Glen Nevis to hike to Steall Waterfall, one of Scotland's highest waterfalls. The hike is about 2.2 miles round trip and takes roughly 2 hours. This relatively easy hike takes you through lush woodland and along the Nevis Gorge, leading to the spectacular 390+ foot waterfall. The scenery along the way is equally impressive, making this a must-do hike. Click here for full trail info.
Evening: Relax & Enjoy a Scenic Restaurant
End your day with a relaxing evening at one of the many scenic restaurant options in the Glencoe area. If you didn’t get a chance to check out the Clachaig Inn for a meal on day one, this spot is a must! You could head over to the Ballachulish Hotel for a meal overlooking Loch Linnhe. Or opt for a slightly further drive to eat at The Old Inn overlooking Castle Stalker.
(Stay another night in the Glencoe area, or carry on to the next town)
Planning to carry on to Oban next? There are heaps of wonderful restaurants to choose from, and fantastic accommodations overlooking the ocean. This boutique B&B is my personal favorite. Full guide to Oban coming soon.
Or maybe you’ll head north and stay in Fort William next. Fort William is only around a 25 minute drive from Glencoe, and is an awesome hub for exploring the highlands. Restaurants to try: Black Isle Bar, The Silly Goose, The Geographer.
Meeting of the Three Waters
One of the peaks of Bidean nam Bian
Lagangarbh Hut (the wee white house) in autumn
Other Must-Do Activities in the Glencoe Area
Photography tours: Join a guided photography tour to capture the stunning landscapes with expert guidance.
Skiing and snowboarding: In winter, visit the Glencoe Mountain Resort for skiing and snowboarding.
Walk part of the West Highland Way: this hiking path runs from Glasgow to Fort William, passing right through Glencoe. Take a wee mosey on part of the trail.
For Harry Potter fans: Visit the Glenfinnan Viaduct when the “Hogwarts Express” (or rather, the Jacobite Steam Train) is scheduled to cross the viaduct. This happens daily, and is a magical experience for those who love Harry Potter!
Visit Kilchurn Castle on the shores of Loch Awe. This is roughly a one hour drive from the heart of Glencoe, but it is worth the trip.
Summer chairlift ride: For amazing mountain top views without the hike, you can take a summertime chairlift ride right at Glencoe Mountain Resort.
Take another hike! This mountainous area is known for its dramatic views and miles upon miles of scenic trails. Here are some of the best hikes to consider in the area…
Bidean Nam Bian view in Glencoe
Best Hikes in the Glencoe Area:
Lost Valley (Coire Gabhail) - Moderate
The Pap of Glencoe (Sgorr na Ciche) - Hard
Buachaille Etive Mòr (Stob Dearg) - Very Hard
Steall Waterfall and Nevis Gorge - Easy to Moderate
The Three Sisters of Glencoe (Bidean nam Bian)- Moderate to Hard
Glencoe Lochan Trail - Easy
Signal Rock and An Torr - Easy
Final Thoughts
Whether you choose to spend one or two days exploring Glencoe, this iconic landscape is one that can’t be missed on any Scottish Highlands trip. This area is prime for hiking through hidden valleys, driving along scenic roads, or simply enjoying the local cuisine with an unmatched view. So pack your bags, lace up your hiking boots and get ready to discover the absolute magic that is Glencoe, Scotland!
