Scotland is always my first choice for a trip in my camper van (even though it’s not exactly on our doorstep) and with Glencoe being en route between Fort William and Loch Lomond, we’ve visited the area a fair few times.
However, Glencoe is not simply stunning scenery that will make your jaw drop as you drive past. The glacier-carved slopes of Glencoe cannot fail to steal your heart and you certainly won’t regret pausing there for a night or two.
Read on for my top tips and everything you need to know to plan a trip to Glencoe in your camper van or motorhome…
OVERNIGHT PARKING BESIDE LOCH ACHTRIOCHTAN
Our favourite overnight parking spot is the car park beside Loch Achtriochtan, which is part of Glencoe National Nature Reserve and is cared for by the National Trust for Scotland. There are dramatic views to be enjoyed right from your van – of one of the most famous views in Glencoe, no less – and the location is really convenient too.
The National Trust for Scotland allow camper vans and motorhomes to stay overnight in this car park, at no charge. Please let’s not abuse their generosity. I’m sure all of you lovely campers will be sure to leave no trace of your stay and perhaps you’ll consider making a donation to the National Trust for Scotland.
CLACHAIG INN
The Clachaig Inn (PH49 4HX) is an easy walk from the Loch Achtriochtan car park, but I’d recommend a head torch if you’re walking back in the dark after one of their superb live music nights.
The Clachaig Inn offers excellent food too, served amidst fantastic scenery. It’s a great choice for lunch or dinner and vegetarians, vegans and those who require a gluten-free diet are catered for.
HAGRID’S HUT
Harry Potter fans will recognize Glencoe as being the filming location of Hagrid’s Hut, first seen in Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban, and the location is even marked on Google Maps:
The site is just a 5 minute walk from the Clachaig Inn but the last part of the walk is quite steep with uneven ground which is likely to make it unsuitable for those with mobility difficulties.
Don’t expect to see Hagrid’s Hut though! The set has long since been removed, but its distinctive location is easy to spot and offers magnificent views down to Loch Torren.
GLENCOE ORBITAL RECREATIONAL TRACK
The Glencoe Orbital Recreational Track is a low-level flat path that is suitable for all. But don’t underestimate the views; the mountain scenery will wow you for sure.
From the Loch Achtriochtan car park, cross over the A82 and join the path that runs west alongside the road. This will lead you along the river to An Torr carpark, from where you can explore the An Torr woodland or take the walk up to Signal Rock.
Exit An Torr woodland at the Clachaig Inn and turn left to follow the path alongside the road. To your right, you will see the track heading up the hillside to the filming location of Hagrid’s Hut and, further on, you will pass Loch Torren – a great place to pause for a picnic and enjoy the view.
Continuing on, you may choose to make a diversion and enjoy the Glencoe Lochan trails before heading into Glencoe Village.
In Glencoe Village, I’d recommend a visit to Glencoe Café (PH49 4HP) where you can enjoy breakfast or a light lunch before retracing your steps back to Loch Achtriochtan car park . As you head back along the main village road, the rounded hill in front of you is Sgorr na Ciche, the Pap of Glencoe.
THE THREE SISTERS
The Three Sisters is the name given to three ridges – Beinn Fhada, Gearr Aonach and Aonach Dubh – on the Bidean nam Bian mountain. They are one of the most prominent features of Glencoe and you won’t want to miss their majestic beauty.
The Three Sisters car park is about 4km east from the Loch Achtriochtan car park, along the A82. It’s a short drive, or you can walk it in about an hour, taking the path which runs alongside Loch Achtriochtan and the A82, and then walking along the remains of the old military road.
GROCERIES
If you’re running low on groceries, there is a small Co-op Food store in Ballachulish (PH49 4JS). Alternatively, Fort William is about 17 miles (30 minutes) away and there you will find a Morrisons supermarket (PH33 6AN).
WATER
It is also worth heading into Fort William if you need to top up on water. You’ll find a free water tap in front of the Black Isle Bar (PH33 6DY) and beside the Travelodge (PH33 6DX). You will probably be able to park your van in Fassifern Road.
I know from experience that it takes many trips up and down that hill with a water bottle to fill our water tank! After a tip from a fellow camper and tap user a few years ago, we bought this BPA-free collapsible water container and have been very grateful for it on future trips:
FUEL
If you need to top up on fuel (and in the Scottish Highlands you really should when you get the chance) you have two main options. There is the Claymore Filling Station in Ballachulish (PH49 4HP) or, if you’re heading into Fort William, you’ll find a Morrisons Petrol Station (PH33 6XZ).
WASTE DISPOSAL
In Glencoe Village, there is a temporary black waste disposal point and not only is it convenient but there is also no charge for using it. You can use this map to get directions (and also to view other waste disposal points in Scotland).
GUIDE BOOKS & MAPS
GLENCOE VALLEY BY TRAIN
In the winter months, driving and hiking in Glencoe becomes more challenging. Perhaps the best way to enjoy the snowy views in comfort may be by train.
The journey from Fort William to Glasgow Queen Street takes 3 hours 45 minutes and is particularly scenic. The tracks weave their way around the mountains and you get to enjoy the magical journey across Rannoch Moor too.
