Lochaber is where Scotland turns up the volume. Glen Coe is one of the most dramatic valleys in the British Isles. Ben Nevis is the highest mountain. Glenfinnan Viaduct is one of the most photographed structures. And Fort William sits at the heart of it all as the outdoor capital of the Highlands.
Glen Coe
The drive through Glen Coe never loses its impact, no matter how many times you do it. The Three Sisters on the south side of the glen, the steep walls of the Aonach Eagach ridge to the north, Rannoch Moor opening up behind you. It has featured in Skyfall, Harry Potter and countless other films, and you can see why.
The history runs deep too. The Massacre of Glencoe in 1692, when government soldiers turned on their MacDonald hosts, is one of the darkest events in Scottish history. The visitor centre tells the story well.
For a quieter experience, the single-track road down Glen Etive branches off the main road and follows the river to a remote loch. It is beautiful and often deserted. See our Glen Coe tour from Inverness.
Fort William
Fort William is a working town rather than a pretty one, but it is the gateway to everything in Lochaber. Ben Nevis towers above it. The West Highland Museum on the high street is small but excellent. The Fort William chauffeur service is ideal for covering the area without the parking stress.
Glenfinnan
The Glenfinnan Viaduct is the one from the Harry Potter films, carrying the West Highland Line over 21 arches. The Jacobite steam train crosses it daily in summer and the viewpoint from below is spectacular.
The Glenfinnan Monument at the head of Loch Shiel marks where Bonnie Prince Charlie raised his standard in 1745. The setting is beautiful. See our Glenfinnan Viaduct tour.
Ben Nevis
At 1,345 metres, Ben Nevis is the highest mountain in the British Isles. The tourist path from Glen Nevis is the standard route and is achievable for fit walkers, but it is a serious day out of 7-8 hours. The weather at the summit is often poor even when Fort William is sunny. Be honest about your fitness and come prepared.
The Commando Memorial and Neptune's Staircase
The Commando Memorial at Spean Bridge, overlooking the Great Glen, is one of the most recognisable monuments in Scotland. The view from here on a clear day is outstanding. Neptune's Staircase at Banavie is a flight of eight canal locks on the Caledonian Canal, an impressive piece of engineering with Ben Nevis as the backdrop.
Where to eat
The Lime Tree in Fort William combines an art gallery with an excellent restaurant. Crannog on the pier is good for seafood. The Inverlochy Castle Hotel nearby is the luxury dining option in the area.
Getting here
From Inverness, Fort William is about an hour and a half via the A82 along the Great Glen. From Glasgow, about two and a half hours via Loch Lomond and Rannoch Moor. From Edinburgh, about three hours. See our full Lochaber and Glencoe guide for detailed itineraries.
Frequently asked questions
How far is Glen Coe from Inverness?
About an hour and a half via the A82 through the Great Glen. It is a beautiful drive in its own right, passing Fort Augustus, Loch Lochy and the Commando Memorial.
Can you do Glen Coe and Glenfinnan in one day from Inverness?
Yes, but it is a long day of 10-12 hours. We do this regularly and plan the timing carefully to make the most of both. Starting early helps.
Is Ben Nevis worth climbing?
The tourist path is achievable for fit walkers but takes 7-8 hours return and the weather at the summit is often poor. The views of Ben Nevis from the lower slopes and Fort William are excellent without the full climb.
When is the best time to visit Glen Coe?
Autumn is spectacular with colour on the hills. Winter brings snow and dramatic light. Summer is warmest but busiest. Spring is quiet with fresh green. Glen Coe is extraordinary in every season.
Highlands hub · All guides · Contact us
