Discover Glencoe in Winter
When winter casts its spell upon Glencoe, lots of magical things happen; colours shift on the landscape, crowds, busy traffic and midges disappear, and there’s every chance the mountains will undergo a snowy makeover.
Everything slows down, but there are more than enough businesses still open to provide hot meals, cosy lodgings, gift shopping and winter activities: lots of them are dog-friendly too!
Can I inspire you to visit Glencoe in winter?
This blog was written as part of a paid campaign with Discover Glencoe.
1) Glencoe wears winter very well
The Highlands are my number one travel destination during the winter months, and Glencoe is the absolute epitome of Scotland’s wild beauty; from the mighty landscape of Glen Coe itself, to the forests, waterfalls, and coastline which sprawl out across the whole area.
Glen Coe is a show-stopper under any conditions, but moody skies add extra emphasis to the rugged scenes and natural drama. If you’re lucky enough to experience freshly fallen snow on your visit, then you have truly stepped through the wardrobe into the magical world of Narnia.
2) For the winter activities
If your idea of ‘chilling’ involves snow sports, ice climbing and snowy hikes, then Glencoe has got you covered! For skiing and snowboarding, Glencoe Mountain Resort has 8 lifts and 20 runs for all abilities; equipment hire and lessons are available too. If, like me, you’re yet to take up a hobby in snow sports, you can still ride the chairlift up the mountainside and go for a walk instead. The views of Rannoch Moor and Buachaille Etive Mòr are jaw dropping!
Both aspiring and hardcore climbers should pay a visit to Ice Factor, an activity centre in Kinlochleven, home to the world’s largest ice climbing wall: 500 tonnes of snow and ice have gone into creating it! If you’re unsure whether dangling from an ice wall is your thing, book a taster session – no previous experience required.
3) The light is incredible
In the Highlands, you have a heightened awareness and appreciation for the influence of light on your surroundings; in the city, people only seem to notice when it’s a brilliantly sunny day. It is quite the opposite in Glencoe, where heavy, brewing clouds and low winter sun plays all sorts of tricks on the land, sea and sky, and these conditions are celebrated.
Glencoe’s natural splendour spans from soaring mountain heights right down to sea loch level. I love the random spotlights and slivers of sunshine on the dark mountains, highlighting the shapes, textures and crevices in the ancient rock. The sun has a similar effect along the coast, making the sea sparkle and patches of light appear on the surface of the water. The way the light beams from partings in the cloud is a reminder that Glencoe really is heaven on Earth.
Winter also equals early sunset and late sunrise, which means you don’t need to swap time in bed for the chance of seeing the sky morph into shades of bright pink and orange: best viewed by the sea or up a mountain.
4) There are no crowds to content with
The Glencoe area is much-loved by all who visit, and lots of people choose to do so during the peak months. On my last visit during summer, the restaurants were all full, Clachaig Inn was queued out the door, and car parks in the glen were packed. Glencoe is one of my favourite places in the world, but mass-tourism isn’t really my thing.
Winter is the calm before and after the storm. Of course, there are still visitors, but they are a select and sensible few who come in search of snowy hikes and cosy relaxation; they embrace the fact that there is less going on and feel a sense of satisfaction at having this scenic wonderland to themselves.
5) No dreaded midges either
This is probably a bigger selling point than the lack of people. During the summer months (although it seems to be getting earlier each year!), midges can be found swarming in filthy clouds, like a scene from the biblical plague: usually around water or damp areas. Peaceful picnics and relaxing walks descend into arm-flapping chaos if these tiny winged demons are out in force. Fish & chips by Loch Leven on a summer’s eve? Forget it. I’m itchy just thinking about it!
Thankfully, you’re very unlikely to encounter these wee beasties during the winter months. No midge nets, ridiculous hats or smelly repellent required. FREEDOM!
6) The outdoors will always be ‘open’
While some businesses and activities go into hibernation over winter, the great outdoors is not a seasonal offering, and can always be relied upon to keep you entertained. I’ve not climbed any Munros for years, so don’t currently feel hardcore enough to tackle a mountain during winter, but luckily there are walks to suit all abilities in Glencoe; some which don’t require much exertion at all.
Short winter walks in Glencoe
- Bishops Bay – this tranquil bay on the shores of Loch Leven wasn’t even on my radar until recently. Starting from the stone jetty just down from Loch Leven Hotel, the path heads left along the coast through an area of woodland until you see the boats and yachts moored in the small bay. Continue on to the wee islet of An Dunan for an incredible perspective of the loch and mountains. Time = under 1 hour, including time to sit and soak up the views.
- Glencoe Lochan – another flat, easy walk in super-scenic surroundings. Follow the looped trail around the lochan, stopping to admire the mountain vistas and reflections in the water from the picturesque wooden jetties. Time = under 1 hour at a slow pace, option to extend the walk onto other trails into the forest.
- Inchree Falls – the highlight of this walk in seeing some of the eight waterfalls which go tumbling through Glen Righ: Vertical Descents offer canyoning trips here. The Waterfall Trail joins on to Wade’s Road Trail, part of the network of military roads which were constructed after the 1715 Jacobite Rebellion, in an attempt to control and police the Highlands. Time = approx. 2 hours. We followed this route.
- The Brecklet Trail – begin at the old slate quarry in Ballachulish and spend some time reading the information boards about the industry, which was established in 1693 and only came to a final halt in 1955. Afterwards, follow the signposts for the trail, which climbs up above the flooded quarries and the village, then through the forest past moss-covered ruined houses. Time = 1.5 hours with photo stops. We followed this route.
7) To adopt the comfort food diet
The second best thing about spending days outside, basking in the brisk winter air, are the rewards which immediately follow: a hearty meal, a hot drink, or something stronger! For me, Highland hospitality is defined by warm welcomes and big portions, and you can expect plenty of both around these parts.
Where to eat during winter in Glencoe
- Clachaig Inn– if you haven’t been for a meal and a pint here, have you even been to Glencoe? A visit to this historic inn is a rite of passage, whether it’s a cosy, civilised lunch by the fire or one too many drinks in Boots Bar by night; find out if there’s any live music on here. Choose from over 400 single malt whiskies and tuck into tasty, unpretentious, homecooked food; I recommend the pork & Chorizo chilli in a tortilla bowl or classic Haggis, Neeps & Tatties.
- The Holly Tree Hotel– right on the shores of Loch Linnhe, this family-run hotel is housed within the old Kentallen Railway Station; you can see some original features inside. There is a shorter winter menu but the quality of the food and the portion sizes are excellent. Take a walk along the pier outside afterwards.
- Roam West– this bar/restaurant, and the adjacent lodgings, have been under new ownership since 2020; two outdoorsy couples from Wales who are passionate about the local area. Open from 17.30 for dinner, you will be met with a friendly welcome, a roaring fire, and reasonably priced, high quality food. The toffee apple crumble was a highlight, and it was huge so perfect for sharing.
- Glencoe Café– this is a regular stop of mine of my visits to Glencoe. The coffee is the best you’ll find in the area, and I always order one of the cheese and herb scones. There are gifts and books available inside, and while the café is not dog-friendly, there are tables outside.
- Loch Leven Hotel– this coaching inn has undergone a refurbishment but the quirky wee Old Ferry Bar inside, dating back to the 1700s, is still full of character. This part of the hotel is dog-friendly and it’s also where you’ll find the crackling fireplace, hearty meals and plenty single malt whisky. The hotel is also home to craft spirits distillery and gin school, Pixel Spirits, so gin and rum lovers can sample these local spirits straight from the source.
- Quarry Cafe– when you’re craving a classic toastie and warming bowl of homemade soup, this is the place to go. I ordered the carrot & ginger soup and it was absolutely delicious. They also serve cooked breakfasts, which I’m planning to try next time!
8) Glencoe Visitor Centre is open year-round
Glencoe National Nature Reserve is managed by the National Trust for Scotland, and their eco-friendly Visitor Centre is an ideal addition to your itinerary, to learn all about the area: from the history and natural environment to its role on the big screen! Browse the various displays, visit the shop, have a hot drink and something to eat at Highland Coo Café.
Be sure to check out the 17th century replica turf house which has been built on the grounds, using organic materials and 300 year old methods. The structure is based upon findings from excavations at nearby Achtriochtan, once home to some of the MacDonald clan who were murdered during the 1692 Glencoe Massacre. The turf house offers a wee glimpse into how they lived.
- The Visitor Centre is open daily from 10.00 – 16.00
- The turf house should be open to the public for self-guided visits from April 2022
- In the meantime book a free guided visit here
9) To support local businesses
Businesses benefit from a summer-surge each year, but this is a very different story during winter, with some choosing to close altogether. For those who do stay open, your footfall and custom is much needed and appreciated. By staying in a locally/family-run accommodation and eating out at the places mentioned above, you are making a positive contribution to winter tourism, helping businesses tick over during the quiet season, and keeping hospitality staff in a job.
If you’re looking for a special souvenir to bring back from Glencoe in winter, check out Holroyd Gallery in North Ballachulish which stays open year-round and is the perfect place to escape the elements for a wee while. This beautiful gallery exhibits artwork from 28 artists; both local and from further afield. Crafts & Things is another option for Glencoe-style retail therapy; it’s a wee treasure trove of gifts, books, crafts and artwork. There is a café here too if you fancy a bite to eat while you’re at it.
10) It’s easier to pack
Good weather can’t be guaranteed at any time of year. In fact, the worst weather I’ve experienced in Glencoe – relentless, torrential rain – was during the summer months. When exploring Glencoe in winter, however, you can guarantee that it’s going to be cold.
Packing warm layers, sensible walking shoes, and a cosy hat is a no brainer, plus waterproofs which are a staple on any Scottish adventure. Winter is probably the only time of year when you can pack for just one season, rather than pre-empting all four in one day.
Where to stay during winter in Glencoe
- House in the Wood– perfect for a cosy getaway, this is quintessential ‘cabin in the woods’ accommodation, complete with wooden ceiling beams and a wood-burning stove. Family-run, the four cabins were built in the 70s by owner Harriet’s dad, and have since been restored to a high, tasteful standard.
- Loch Leven Hotel– benefiting from a bar, restaurant and distillery on-site, this homely hotel has everything you need. Choose from 12 refurbished hotel rooms, including loch view rooms, or if you prefer something more quirky, check out the luxury, en-suite Distiller’s Pods outside.
- Holly Tree Hotel – as mentioned in the food recommendations above, the hotel has a bar, restaurant and swimming pool, which means you don’t have to venture out at night. There are also new high end Beach Houses being built, and older, less fancy lodges – all with hot tubs and amazing views.
GLENCOE IN WINTER: THANKS FOR READING!
I hope you are feeling inspired to visit Glencoe in Winter. If you enjoy my content, follow me on Facebook and Instagram for lots of adventure updates and inspiration. Here are some other blog posts I think you’ll like.
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Ardnamurchan & the West Highland Peninsulas
Road to the Isles: Destination Guide
Isle of Mull: The Ultimate Guide & Travel Inspiration
Helensburgh: Top Things to Do & Reasons to Visit
This post is sponsored by Discover Glencoe. As always, all content, opinions & chaotic behaviour are my own.
Happy travels!
Kay 💙
