Glencoe
As you drive across Rannoch Moor and come into the sweeping pass of Glencoe, the vista opens up before you. No matter what the weather is doing – rain, brooding clouds or glorious bright sunshine, the Glen takes on a different persona that leaves unforgettable images and memories.
Travel on further and you’ll reach the village of Glencoe nestling on the flatlands before Loch Leven. Signal Rock is just a short walk from there which is where, according to legend, the signal was given to begin the Glencoe Massacre.
The history of Glencoe is known the world over. The dark days of the Glencoe Massacre between the MacDonalds and the Campbells a well-known story. Thankfully, these days are long gone and today Glencoe is a peaceful and popular destination for visitors from all around the globe.
Oban
Jump in the car or hop aboard a bus and head for the bustling seaside town of Oban. Just a 45-minute drive from Glencoe, Oban is the Gateway to the Isles and offers a great deal visitors to explore and enjoy.
Take a walk along the high street and explore its many shops, cafes and restaurants. Head along the pier and sample some delicious seafood fresh from the west coast waters (the langoustines and oysters are particularly tasty).
Oban town also has some great attractions to discover including:
Oban Whisky Distillery – see the distillers at work and try a complimentary dram. Oban is one of the six ‘Classic Malts of Scotland’ and the guided tours of the distillery take you through the whisky-making process from grain to glass.
Oban Chocolate Company – savour delicious handmade chocolates and pastries at this delightful shop and cafe. The chilli chocolates are one of our favourites!
Take a walk up to McCaig's Tower – a coliseum like structure built as a family memorial that dominates Oban’s skyline and provides a great viewpoint across the town and islands.
Fort William
For recreation, we suggest shopping along the high street – we love the Granite House for gifts and unusual finds. Stop off at the Grog & Gruel for a pint or a dram and soak up the friendly welcoming atmosphere. If you’re a lover of seafood then The Crannog Restaurant is a must. Located on the waterfront with its red roof, it serves the freshest local seafood and fish (as well as other local meats and game) and makes a fantastic lunch stop.
For breathtaking views on a clear day, head up the gondola at Nevis Range where you’ll be able to see for miles. On the way back down, the Pinemarten Cafe is a great stop. If you’ve got time why not try out the High Wires course or hire a mountain bike and hit the tracks and trails around the mountain.
The Islands
Did you know that more than 10 of the West Coast’s Hebridean islands are within a day trip of Glencoe?
Head to Oban and explore Mull, Iona, Ulva, Kerrera, Staffa, Treshnish, Luing, Lismore and Easdale. The helpful staff at the Caledonian MacBrayne ferry office can talk you through all the options.
The most popular trip for foot passengers is the Isle of Mull. Home to Duart Castle and Gardens, the painted town of Tobermory (aka Balamory!) and the white sands of Calgary Bay. If you’re travelling light and have time, travel on from Mull to the Island of Iona where a visit to the Abbey is a must.
The Isle of Skye is also within easy reach. Head there by road (2.5 hours each way) and cross onto the island via the Skye bridge or take the ferry from Mallaig. Both journeys are equally delightful.
