Glen Coe is arguably the most gorgeous spot in Scotland. You can literally spend the whole day driving through it – complete with stopping and taking several photos! It is the perfect place to spend the day, the beauty of this place is so inspiring!
There are just about only two ways to drive through, from the north or south. We drove from the north, but no matter which way you drive it, you don’t want to miss a thing!
Glen Coe
We started at the northern part of Glen Coe and headed south toward Edinburgh. There are many different spots you can park alongside the road to get out and take pictures. At one point we walked down into the valley, it was simply beautiful! We even got to hear a pipe player, and it felt like we were in a Scottish movie!
We stopped several more times as we drove through the glen. There are so many spots to park your car and get those gorgeous photographs! You can also find the road they used in the James Bond movie, Skyfall!
We were very excited to learn we had been featured on the @scotland.shots Instagram account! Want to learn how?!
Loch Lubnaic
After we were through Glen Coe, we stopped to pick up a few sandwiches. We then drove a few more minutes before we got to Loch Lubnaic. It was just breathtaking to have a picnic right next to the water and soak up the lovely sunshine. They have a few park benches, as well as, a picnic table. They have a little coffee shop (The Cabin) as well if you needed a mid-day pick-me-up. It was a perfect way to spend the afternoon.
Prince Charlie Monument
If you are into Scottish history and love the Jacobite cause, the Glenfinnan Monument is for you!
On the morning of August 19, 1745; Bonnie Prince Charlie sails down Loch Shiel and lands for the first time in Scotland. Soon highlanders appear to show their support for the Jacobite cause. The Prince climbs the hill and raises his father’s standard, officially starting the ’45 Rising.
A little past the city of Fort William, near Glenfinnan, is a perfect little town to explore. There are trails, shops, and gorgeous scenery to enjoy.
Glenfinnan Viaduct
Also, known as the Hogwarts Express. Right across the Glenfinnan Monument is a path that leads to a fantastic overlook of both the Viaduct and the Monument. You can ride the Jacobite Steam Train with a return ticket of 59 euros. It is such a cute way to see Scotland!
Places To Eat
Depending on which way you drive through Glen Coe, you will either start in Fort William. There are so many food options here, but these are a few of our favorites!
- Crannog Seafood – This restaurant we read about in our Scotland Lonely Planet book! It is a fabulous restaurant, right on the water! Enjoy a night of delicious food and great views! I recommend booking a table, as this fills up quickly!
- Grog and Gruel – A perfect pub to grab a quick bite and maybe something to drink!
Beyond Glen Coe
Once you are finished soaking in the beauty of Glen Coe, be sure to try out a few of my favorite spots not far from the glen!
Culross
A little farther south of Glen Coe is the quaint town of Culross. Narrow cobblestone streets and the Culross Palace will have you falling in love the minute you see the place! You will feel as if you are transported back in time! The houses and buildings are still in their 1600s form, thanks to the National Trust for Scotland.
Town House
The Town House is the first building you will see in Culross; built back in the 1600s, later the clock tower was added. It is said it was used for local government as well as a prison! Today, the downstairs is used as a cafe and the upstairs has been transformed into an art store.
Culross Palace and Abbey
Another great place to visit is Culross Palace and the gardens! My favorite part about this palace is its yellow walls and red-tinted roof! It’s too cute! Unfortunately, it was closed when we visited, however, we were able to walk in the beautiful gardens! This palace was never a royal residence, however, James VI did visit in 1617.
Another gorgeous spot in Culross is the Abbey! It is a steep climb; but well worth it! The Abbey was restored in the 19th and 20th centuries so most of the original form has been removed, but the beauty is preserved!
Fun Fact:
Quick fact: (and probably my favorite part about this place) is this was used as a filming location for Outlander! I’m sure by now, most of you know I am a huge fan! Remember the part in season 1, where Claire visits her friend Geillis in the town of Cranesmuir? This is where that was filmed!
Highland Folk Museum
Another great place to explore is the Highland Folk Museum! Keep in mind, this is an open-air museum, so visit when the weather is nice (closed during winter months). The museum will show you how the Scottish Highlanders lived and worked back in the 1700s! There are about 6 featured houses that are open for you to explore as well as live reenactors that will answer any questions you have!
Of course, I have to mention this is another filming location for Outlander season 1! Remember when Dougal MacKenzie was collecting rent? This is one of the villages they visited.
Bonus
Where to Find A Highland Coo
One of the top things that were on my list for Scotland was seeing a Highland Coo! We spent about a week in Scotland and the only time we saw a coo, it had been way out in the fields. On the last day, we were in Scotland I was feeling pretty bummed we had not seen one up close. Then we stumbled on Trossachs Woolen Mill and they had two right in front of the parking lot!! I was beyond excited! The only downside was I had to leave them.
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