How to spend a weekend in Glencoe

There are few places that display the rugged beauty of Scotland more emphatically than Glencoe.

Peppered with jagged peaks, the impossibly steep glen leaves visitors unanimously awestruck.

If considering a trip to the moody glen, consider the following walks, restaurants and hotels before setting off.

Where to walk in Glencoe

The Lost Valley

Sandwiched between two of the peaks that make up the three sisters, sits the impossibly beautiful Lost Valley.

Walkers who make the rugged hike from the A82 to the Lost Valley are rewarded with views of the boulder strewn, serene and surprisingly flat valley.

This was the final resting place of many members of the MacDonald clan who fled the infamous Glencoe Massacre.

Though this is a relatively straightforward walk, it does involve a dose of mild scrambling.

Time: 2 to 3 hours Distance: 2.5 miles Route description: walkhighlands.co.uk

The view down Glencoe from Buachaille Etive Beag (Photo: Finlay Greig)

Buachaille Etive Beag

Glencoe is home to some of Scotland's most dreaded peaks, including the formidable Aonach Eagach Ridge. Buachaille Etive Beag, however, are a pair of easily accessible peaks that both boast hallowed munro status.

The staircase like route to the bealach between them will work your knees and hips, but the going rarely gets too tough. The ridge walk to Stob Dubh is stunning, offering views of Buachaille Etive Mor, Glen Etive and Glencoe itself.

The walk to the second peak, Stob Coire Raineach delivers even better views of Glencoe.

Time: 5-6 hours Distance: 5 miles Route description: walkhighlands.co.uk

Beinn a' Bheithir

Offering a far more formidable prospect to walkers is Beinn a' Bheithir, a pair of munros perched above Ballachulish.

This walk requires accomplished orienteering, as the initial route to the hike's ridge is pathless and boggy. Once the uninviting slopes have been navigated, the ridge walk is sensational, providing trekkers with views of Loch Leven, Loch Linnhe and Glencoe's rocky peaks.

Take particular care when summiting Sgorr Dhonuill, as this involves some airy and exposed scrambling.

Time: 6-9 hours Distance: 10 miles Route description: walkhighlands.co.uk

The walk up Bideam nam Biam is treacherous in places (Photo: Finlay Greig)

Bideam nam Biam

Frequently touted by experienced Scottish walkers as their favourite walk in the country, a day out on Bideam nam Bieam is one you won't forget.

Though paths up Bideam nam Bian - and its neighbour Stob Coire Sgreamhach - are well worn, the terrain is rough and the route is treacherous in places.

The views, however, of Ben Nevis, the Aonach Eagach Ridge and - on a clear day - Mull are quite remarkable.

The descent of this walk takes you through the incomparable Lost Valley .

Time: 7 to 9 hours Distance: 7 miles Route description: walkhighlands.co.uk

Where to eat and drink in Glencoe

Clachaig Inn

Scottish pubs don't come much more charming than the Clachaig Inn.

Set in the shadow of the Aonach Eagach Ridge, the Clachaig Inn is a great place to enjoy a hearty Scottish meal and ale after a long day's hiking.

The Clachaig has been a source of accomodation for peckish travellers for over 300 years.

Visit: Glencoe, Ballachulish PH49 4HX - clachaig.com

The Glencoe Gathering

This "posh chippy", serves up kindly portioned plates of fish and chips to weary walkers.

The inn is also a great place to get your day off to a flying start, with a full Scottish breakfast or a delicious hot roll.

Visit: Ballachulish, PH49 4HP - crerarhotels.com/glencoe-gathering

A post shared by Clachaig Inn, Glencoe (@clachaig_inn) on Jan 14, 2018 at 2:44am PST

The Laroch Restaurant and Bar

Though housed in an unassuming and modest building, the Laroch is a safe bet for quality Scottish cuisine.

Grilled Loch Duart Salmon, and Slow braised pork belly with Orkney scallops and Stornoway black pudding are two delicious examples of whats on offer at the charming bar.

Visit: Loanfern, Ballachulish PH49 4JB - thelarochrestaurantandbar.co.uk

Where to stay in Glencoe

Woodland Cabins

Set in forest overlooking Loch Linnhe, these charming timber homes are equipped with a kitchenette, cosy living room, bathroom and inviting double bedroom.

The hosts are happy to help organise a range of activities, including; fishing, skiing and horse riding.

A post shared by Jamie Russell (@jaysupertramp) on Dec 9, 2017 at 12:39am PST

Glencoe SYHA Hostelling Scotland

If after cheaper accommodation, this youth hostel in Glencoe village is excellent value.

Beds cost from £14.50, while a private room will set you back £42.50.

The Isles of Glencoe Hotel

Nestled on a peninsula reaching into Loch Leven, The Isles of Glencoe's situation is quite stunning.

The hotels rooms are double and en-suite as standard and staff are more than happy to help organise outdoor activities in the area.