The Highlands (Glenfinnan)
145 miles | 3.5 - 4 hours driving | Google Map
Set off from Edinburgh and leave the city behind as your journey heads west into some of Scotland’s most iconic Highland landscapes. There are plenty of worthwhile stops and striking scenery along the way.
Head north toward the Highland town of Callander. From here, the landscape becomes increasingly dramatic as you approach Glencoe - an ideal place for short walks, a coffee stop, or a little exploration en route. Next pass through Fort William, then onwards to Glenfinnan.
How much you see today is completely up to you; pick and choose from the list below.
Route Note
As you drive along the A9 motorway, you’ll spot The Kelpies, large mythical beasts from Scottish folklore, though these metal structures are based on shire horse statues.
Callander
Callander is one of your first stops in the Southern Highlands and makes an ideal convenience stop. There are free restrooms, small supermarkets, and great coffee shops here. And a chance to stretch your legs!
For brunch or coffee, we recommend Mhor Bread (a local bakery/cafe with excellent sandwiches and cakes) and Ben Ledi Coffee Co. (for coffee, bagels, and bakes).
A good but short walk here is the trail to Bracklinn Falls.
If you’re looking for larger plates and a more spacious environment, continue another 20 minutes north to Mhor 84. This quirky roadside inn offers delicious brunches and lunches, and the setting is gorgeous.
Directions: Callander public car park
Route Note
Callander → Glencoe
Rejoin the A84 as it skirts the edge of Loch Lubnaig, then join the A85 briefly before connecting with the A82 toward Glencoe. From here, continue north past Crianlarich and Tyndrum, where the scenery becomes increasingly dramatic.
As you approach Glencoe, the mountains begin to close in around the road, and the drive becomes one of the most iconic in Scotland, with wide glens, steep ridgelines, and expansive views.
Driving time is approximately 1.5 hours without extended stops, though you may wish to allow extra time for viewpoints along the way.
Glencoe
In addition to the suggested stops in your itinerary, there are several informal lay-bys along the road where you can safely pull over to take in the scenery or stretch your legs. This is a place to move slowly, stay flexible, and enjoy one of the Highlands’ true masterpieces at your own pace.
Glencoe Chair Lift
For a fun outdoor activity, head to this chair lift that takes you 670 meters into the Glencoe mountains. The views over wild Rannoch Moor are phenomenal, especially on the way down. You can hop off mid-way and explore the mountain. Or stay on to complete the loop.
It takes about 30 minutes, and is so much fun - but it's probably one to skip on a rainy day!
Directions: car park with a suggested donation.
Time: around 45 minutes.
Tickets: buy at the chair lift entrance (£20 per person)
White Cottage
One of the most famous sights in Scotland, the white cottage sits beneath the imposing mountain Buachaille Etive Mòr. You can see it from the car or walk down to the cottage itself – the trail is easy to follow if a little rocky. But the view from the river is wonderful.
Directions: viewpoint lay-by
The Meeting of Three Waters
A raging waterfall where run-off from three mountain streams meets. After heavy rainfall, this is a mini–Niagara Falls. The best part is above the waterfalls, where there are mini pools and waterfalls, plus great views. Climb over the low stone wall and follow the rocky path upwards. It’s a little scrambly and can be muddy, so boots are advisable. And follow the trail upwards till you reach the waterfall.
Parking here can be busy and is limited. If you can’t park on your first pass, then either skip. Or turn at the next Three Sisters car park, noting you’ll need to turn again further along the road to continue your journey.
If you are interested in wild swimming, this is a great spot!
Directions: layby
The Three Sisters Viewpoint
This is one of Scotland's most famous viewpoints. From here, you can get close and personal with the Three Sisters of Glencoe—three outcrops of the Bidean Nam Bian mountain.
Directions: Three Sisters car park
Loch Achtriochtan
Stunning viewpoint beside Loch Achtriochtan.
Directions: small car park
Glencoe Visitor Centre
Run by the National Trust for Scotland, this modern visitor centre is a great place to learn about Glencoe’s history. Wander through the small exhibition, browse the shop, and, most importantly, follow the trail to the traditional black house to learn how Highlanders lived in the glen many years ago.
Directions: car park (small donation to NTS)
Optional: Glencoe Hike
See “Highland Essentials” for options.
Fort William
You’ll likely arrive later in Fort William, and this is an option for dinner, amenities, or a leg stretch en route to your accommodation at Glenfinnan.