One of the most beautiful valleys in Scotland, Glencoe is a hauntingly scenic spot located in the Lochaber region of the Scottish Highlands. The Glencoe Village is the main settlement that occupies the western end of the valley, which goes on to meet the saltwater Loch Leven situated adjacent to the valley. Being one of the most ancient landscapes in Scotland, this spectacular valley is frequented by mountaineers who often use Glencoe as a base for the exploration of the Highlands. Dramatic is a good way to describe the stunning scenic beauty of Glencoe, which is only emphasized by the meandering rivers, colourful countryside and crashing waterfalls that make up the valley. Read on to know more about our recommendations for the best places to visit in Glencoe.

The Glencoe Folk Museum is situated in the middle of Glencoe Village, spread over 18th-century cottages covered with thatched roofs. The museum remains open between the months of March to October and contains relics that provide a glimpse into the history and routine life of Glencoe. Visitors will be able to observe costumes, tools of the woodworkers and the blacksmiths, household utensils, and even some weapons that are believed to have been used in the infamous Glencoe Massacre. A number of events are hosted by the museum each year, which offer more details into the history of the region.

Clachaig Inn is an award-winning icon in Glencoe; the very best among traditional inns in the area. This is the place to be if you are looking to experience some top-notch Scottish hospitality combined with lip-smacking local delicacies. The inn offers charming rooms for accommodation and a restaurant that offers an elaborate menu with locally-sourced exquisite ingredients. The Boots Bar at the back of the inn is the main highlight of the place though. A wide range of ales and whiskies are offered here coupled with a splendid live music programme. The extensive selection of liquor served in the traditional ambience of the bar creates an amazingly cosy atmosphere that is perfect for taking a break through the weekend.

Every Saturday, a local Scottish band takes the stage here to provide live entertainment, followed by an Open Session on Sundays when anyone with musical abilities can showcase their talent here.

The Glencoe Visitor Centre is run by the National Trust for Scotland and provides visitors with detailed information on the history of the Glencoe. Most of the information is offered in the form of interactive and audio-visual displays, with a detailed story of the Glencoe Massacre available here as well. There are numerous trails around the centre that can be used to explore the historical sites located nearby, including the site where the Glencoe Massacre took place. Popular movies like Harry Potter, Braveheart, Skyfall etc. had several scenes shot in this region, and visitors will also get to check out these sites. If you are interested in observing the fascinating wildlife of the area, take a safari of the Highlands where you will be able to spot more than a few.

This little shop located off the main road between Ballachulish and the Village is more than just a crafts store. There’s also a clothing shop here, along with a lovely café. The café is a great spot to enjoy during lunchtime with meals like hot lentil soups served with crusty bread, or ciabatta sandwiches, or simply coffee with carrot cake. Most of the meals served here are light yet filling, with plenty of baked goods available. The clothing store mainly focusses on active outdoor outfits, while the crafts store mostly sells items that have been produced locally or created by local makers. It’s a great place to look for souvenirs to take back home.

Glencoe Café is known to serve the best food and cake in the region and is equally popular among locals and tourists. It is famous for being the social hub of the Village, where you can spend hours with friends and family while enjoying delicious snacks and meals. They are open for breakfast and lunch only, with breakfast fry-ups available till 11.30 am. Don’t forget to enjoy a cup of cappuccino here as well, which is supposed to be the best in the glen.

The Glencoe Mountain Resort is spread over an area of 200 hectares on Rannoch Moor and is surrounded by breath-taking natural beauty, sweeping panoramas and impressive views of the mountain Buachaille Etive Mor. The resort is packed all through the year by leisure vacationers and adventure junkies alike. During the summers it becomes a hub for activities like mountain biking, while in winters it doubles up as the best ski resort in the region. It is one of the best places to stay in Glencoe with a warm and welcoming café and a restaurant present within the premises as well.

Glencoe Activities is a multi-activity centre that offers a wide range of adrenaline-pumping activities like white-water rafting, cycling, canyoning, climbing etc. There is also forest walks and biking available for the less adventurous kind. If you are looking for something even tamer, try things like archery, electric biking, golfing and nature trails; activities that can be enjoyed even with the family.