A Glen Coe tour from Inverness is one of the finest Highland days you can do. We head south down the Great Glen past Loch Ness, then into Glen Coe—Visitor Centre, waterfalls, Glen Etive—and, for those who can hike cross-country, an optional Secret Waterfall walk.
The day combines big scenery, a clear narrative (Great Glen, lochs, glens), and the chance to step out for short walks or a more adventurous hike when conditions and fitness allow.
Plan your journey with Venture Highland
Luxury private tours and chauffeur service from Inverness, designed for Highlands stays, estates, golf, and executive travel.
Planning a day in Inverness, Loch Ness, or a private shore excursion from Invergordon? We’ll tailor the route around your interests.
Why Glen Coe is worth the trip
Glen Coe (often written Glencoe; the village is Glencoe) is one of Scotland's most dramatic landscapes: steep-sided mountains, moody light, and a history that still resonates. Both spellings are in common use. Driving through it, with stops at the Visitor Centre and in Glen Etive, gives you a proper sense of the place without needing a long hillwalk.
We build the day so you see the best of the Great Glen and Loch Ness on the way, then focus on Glen Coe and Glen Etive. If you want the full day handled for you, our private tours from Inverness can be tailored to this route—including the Secret Waterfall hike when it suits.
The route: Great Glen and Loch Ness
We leave Inverness and follow the Great Glen south. The road runs along the chain of lochs and canals that cut across the Highlands—Loch Ness is the famous stretch. We use viewpoints and short stops so you get a feel for the glen without rushing. From there we continue toward Fort William and then into Glen Coe.
Loch Ness can be a quick scenic pass-through or we can add stops like Urquhart Castle or Dores Beach, depending on time and what you prefer. We tailor it on the day.
Glen Coe Visitor Centre
The Glen Coe Visitor Centre is a useful pause before we go deeper into the glen. It covers the geology, wildlife, and history of Glen Coe—including the 1692 massacre—and has facilities. It helps set the scene for the drive through the mountains.
Waterfalls and Glen Etive
Glen Coe and Glen Etive are full of waterfalls—some visible from the road, others reached by short walks. We pick stops that suit the weather and your pace. Glen Etive’s single-track road runs up the glen with peaks on both sides and the River Etive alongside; it is one of the most scenic drives in the Highlands.
We often include a waterfall stop or two—either roadside or a short, easy walk—so you get a proper taste of the landscape without a long hike.
Secret Waterfall hike (optional)
For guests who are happy hiking cross-country over rough ground, we can build in a Secret Waterfall walk. The stop is arranged in advance with a guide experienced in this area. It is off the beaten path and not suitable for everyone—you need sturdy footwear, a head for uneven terrain, and reasonable fitness. When conditions and timing allow, we add it as an optional extra to the day.
If you prefer to stay on easier paths or mostly by the vehicle, we focus on viewpoints, the Visitor Centre, Glen Etive, and any roadside waterfalls instead. The day works either way.
What’s included
- Luxury Mercedes vehicle, with V-Class and similar options available.
- Professional local Highland driver-guide.
- Calm pacing and route planning.
- Pick-up and drop-off at your accommodation.
- Entrances and tickets not included unless arranged in advance.
If you are cruising into Inverness, see our Shore Excursions from Invergordon. To tailor a private Glen Coe day, request a quote and we will help you plan it.
Frequently asked questions
How long does a Glen Coe tour from Inverness take?
A Glen Coe day from Inverness is typically a full day, often 10 to 12 hours depending on stops. We follow the Great Glen and Loch Ness south, then into Glen Coe and Glen Etive, with a calm pace and time for photos and short walks.
Can you visit Loch Ness and Glen Coe in the same day from Inverness?
Yes. The route naturally follows the Great Glen past Loch Ness, then south through Fort William into Glen Coe. We tailor stops so you see the best of both without rushing.
What is the Glen Coe Visitor Centre?
The Glen Coe Visitor Centre explains the landscape, geology, and history of the glen, including the massacre of 1692. It is a useful stop for context and facilities before heading into the glen itself.
Is the Secret Waterfall hike suitable for everyone?
No. The Secret Waterfall hike involves cross-country walking over rough ground and is only for guests who are comfortable hiking off-path. It is arranged in advance with a guide experienced in this area. We can add it for capable walkers when conditions allow; otherwise we focus on roadside viewpoints and easier stops.
Can you combine Glen Coe with Glenfinnan Viaduct?
It is possible but makes for a very long day. We usually recommend focusing on either Glen Coe and Glen Etive or Glenfinnan and the viaduct, or splitting across two days for a calmer pace.
What is included in a private Glen Coe tour?
Luxury Mercedes vehicle, professional local Highland driver-guide, calm pacing, and pick-up and drop-off at your accommodation. Entrances and tickets are not included unless arranged in advance.
