I recently solo-traveled to Glencoe - yep - in the heart of winter! But instead of snow covered fields I found rolling walls of mist, a trade I’m more than happy with.
In this photo essay I want to share the spirit of winter in Glencoe. I hope you enjoy!
My 4 hour journey went quickly, passing through several areas of lush green fields and lots of wildlife. Wanting to get to my destination before sunset, I didn’t stop much to take photos, but there were a few spots I couldn’t resist.
I checked into my B&B, a cozy cottage in Lochearnhead with views of the loch below. I spent some time by the shore, watching the evening colors take over.
The next morning I woke at dawn and headed straight towards Glencoe. About an hour later I was in the middle of the famous mountain range, though I could barely tell at first!
Mist shrouded most of the mountains for most of the morning. As the peaks peeked through the mist I enjoyed a leisurely stop at the eastern edge of the mountains.
I continued west, stopping every few minutes to take in the view. Thankfully, there are plenty of pull-overs/”car parks” on the side of the road. I imagine during the summer these are packed with cars. Evidence of erosion and litter is clear along most of the road. I picked up trash at a few of my stops, and saw someone else doing the same - I believe they worked for the Land Trust.
Anyways..onwards towards the eastern edge of Glencoe!
I stopped at the Glencoe Visitor Center, a well appointed facility with a cafe, toilets, gift shop, and more. I learned about the tragic history of the area, which gave me a new appreciation for this land and it’s ancestors.
A short drive later and I was walking through the well-manicured forest at the Glencoe Lochan, taking in a breathtaking view of the mountains behind a pristine mirror reflection.
Since I was already on the western edge of the mountain range, I decided to check out the coast. Heading south along Loch Linnhe, I found a mysterious castle with an unfortunate name: Castle Stalker.
Perhaps the gloomy mist contributed to the chills that run up my spine as I gazed upon the weathered stone, standing tall on it’s secluded island.
Sheets of rain flowed over the loch, so I ventured back into the safe embrace of the huge Glencoe mountains. The sun, though hidden behind walls of mist, had offered a decent amount of even light throughout the day, but I could tell that by 3pm, I would soon need a torch to find my way on the darkening trails. I opted for a short walk around Loch Achtriochtan, then headed back to the B&B.
The next morning I enjoyed a tranquil coffee on the edge of Lochearnhead before my 4 hour drive home, but not without saying goodbye to the resident raft of ducks.
On the way home to Moray, I took a detour to Dunkeld to meet the Birnam Oak, a 600 year old oak tree made famous by Shakespear in his play, Macbeth.
I also enjoyed a relaxing walk along River Braan to the Hermitage, also known as Ossian's Hall of Mirrors: a glass enclosure overlooking a huge waterfall.
This area merits a return!
Thank you for joining me on this visual journey. I look forward to seeing Glencoe in the summer!