Where to stay in Glencoe for first-time visitors
Planning a trip to Glencoe, Scotland, can be overwhelming, especially when it comes to finding the best hotels.
Accommodation in Glencoe is spread around a surprisingly vast area, and where you stay can hugely influence your experience as a first-time visitor; choosing the right location is as essential as choosing the right hotel.
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Thankfully, Glencoe offers many stylish hotels and charming accommodation options, spread between Glencoe village, neighbouring village Ballachulish, and more remote spots in the glen and along the waterfront.
For your first visit to Glencoe, I highly recommend choosing a boutique stay, somewhere with spectacular Highland views and cosy decor. These touches embody an authentic Highlands experience and make your stay so much more enjoyable.
As a Scottish native, I’ve visited Glencoe dozens of times, usually on a road trip. And I have a definitive list of Glencoe hotels you’ll love. In this guide, I’m sharing my top picks for where to stay in Glencoe, whether you’re looking for a hotel, luxury lodge, or cosy B&B.
Tip: No matter which village you choose, one of the most important things to consider when selecting your accommodation is where you’ll eat. The area has only a handful of restaurants, and the best Glencoe hotels offer unique and delicious dining experiences. If where you eat is important to your trip, factor it in.
My Recommendation for First-Time Visitors to Glencoe
Short on time? These are my top picks for accommodation in Glencoe:
Luxury: Glencoe House Hotel
Boutique: Isles of Glencoe Hotel
Lodges: RiverBeds Luxury Lodges (stylish micro-lodges) or SeaBeds Luxury Cabins (spacious waterfront luxury lodges).
B&Bs: Camus House, Ardno House B&B and Highland Croft B&B.
Holiday homes: Duart Cottage (sleeps 6), Oakwood Cottage (sleeps 7), Taigh Seonaig (sleeps 6) or The Boathouse (sleeps 4).
If you want the full breakdown by budget, style and location, I’ve built a complete Glencoe accommodation guide here.
Things to Know Before Booking a Stay in Glencoe
Glencoe’s accommodation is split mainly between two main areas: Glencoe village at the south end of Loch Leven and its neighbour, Ballachulish, at the north end.
Driving (or walking) between them is quick and easy, and each village offers stylish stays, from luxurious options to a wide variety of cosy guesthouses and hostels. If you’re driving, this likely doesn’t significantly affect your choice of stay.
The biggest difference is the proximity to walks and amenities.
Glencoe Village is the starting point of the much-loved Glencoe Lochan walk and the iconic Pap of Glencoe hike. It’s the first stop after the famous glen with its incredible viewpoints, so it’s an excellent option for first-time visitors to Glencoe and outdoor fans alike.
Alternatively, Ballachulish is home to the area's only supermarket, an excellent patisserie, a friendly pub, a decent chip shop, and a few other amenities. Much like Glencoe, the scenery is breathtaking, and you’ll see the best view of the Pap of Glencoe from the waterfront.
Slightly further, you’ll find waterside stays in quiet and idyllic spots along Loch Linnhe. And one notable hotel in a remote location on Rannoch Moor.
Planning Your Glencoe Trip
I love the variety of accommodation available in Glencoe, from boutique hotels to luxury lodges and cosy B&BS. One thing that is guaranteed is the breathtaking Highland views that surround each of the stays on our list. Below, you'll find practical tips and useful information to help you choose where to stay in Glencoe.
When to book your Glencoe Hotel?
Be sure to book in advance because the best hotels sell out fast here, especially in summer.
Do I need a rental car?
The best way to experience Glencoe is by car - this gives you the ultimate freedom to explore more rural and hidden areas. Personally, I recommend Discover Cars for the best car hire prices and flexible booking terms.
How many days in Glencoe?
When planning your trip, I recommend at least two days in Glencoe. This is plenty of time for a mountain hike or easy trail, to enjoy local food, and soak up those stunning views. That being said, allow more days if you’re an outdoor lover who wants more time on the trails.
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