On the Woodlands Estate

Discover things to do in Glencoe! The 36 acre sprawling Woodlands Estate is home to Woodlands Glencoe Activity Centre, voted the number 1 thing to do in Glencoe on TripAdvisor!

Tours run daily and there’s plenty to keep even the biggest adventure seeker occupied. If you’re more of a snuggle-up-with-a-good-book kind of person, we’ve got you covered here too at the cosy clubhouse.

Venturing further afield

Although it could be argued that there’s so much to do here, you’ll never want to leave, the Glencoe area is a pretty spectacular place to explore.

Here’s our list of the best things to do in and around mighty Glencoe.

Walks

The Glencoe area is a true magnet for walking enthusiasts of all ages and abilities. There’s a route out there with your name on it. From our luxury lodges, you can access several incredible trails directly from the Woodlands Estate; however, we would highly recommend heading over to the Walk Highlands website for detailed information on many of the other fantastic routes in the area.

The Glencoe Lochan

A reflective paradise – built by Lord Strathcona of Glencoe House for his homesick Canadian bride in the 19th Century. There are 3 optional trails for you, all short walks through gorgeous woodland and well sign posted. (20 minutes)

Up to “Mama”

You don’t have to be religious to enjoy this serene spot. Nestled in the forest you will find a small shrine built by Woodlands very own Granny Joan. She lights candles daily for those who are in need. A haven in the dark forest. (30 minutes)

The Glenachulish Horseshoe

A lovely but challenging walk into Glenachulish Valley. Simply follow the RiverBeds river up and up – until you find it’s source! The walk opens up to beautiful views of the valley and has several picture perfect waterfalls along the way – as modelled by our lovely Rosie. (2 hours)

Bishops Bay

An easy wander from your lodge door to this quiet picturesque bay. If you’re lucky enough to venture during low tide you can walk out onto the island in the bay for a lovely view point up Loch Leven framing the Pap of Glencoe. (40 minutes)

The Devil’s Staircase

A steep, but enjoyable climb to the highest point on the West Highland Way! (Scotlands most popular long distance walking trail) – and a great place to catch a sunrise (or sunset!) on the infamous Buchaille Etive Mor mountain, Guardian of Glencoe. (2 hours)

Inchree Waterfall

Short and steep, the climb to Inchree falls is worth the effort. A series of eight falls dropping over 100 metres – the falls are a true spectacle. The car park is also a great spot to do some red squirrel watching. (20 minutes)

Other worthwhile adventures

There are far too many worthwhile local adventures to list on this page, but we have highlighted a few of our favourites below. Head over to our blog page for the latest and greatest adventures from open water swimming and bike riding to the best places to eat out!

Kayaking with Rockhopper

We recommend an aquatic adventure around the Sound of Arisaig with a professional and friendly guide. Better still, Rockhopper can do you a day trip a little closer to home – exploring Loch Leven by kayak. Check them out here.

Drive down Glen Etive

One of Scotlands most scenic Glens, Many people venture here in seek of Deer as they are well known for their friendly nature and abundance. You’ll also be able to have your very own Bond moment as this is the site of some very well known filming locations. We kindly ask you DO NOT feed the deer when you go and visit! – they are wild animals! (2 hours)

Explore Loch Leven with Rugged Coast

Join the paddle boarding revolution! Or try your hand at kayaking or E-Foiling. Tours leave regularly from the Isles of Glencoe peninsula. Learn more and book online here.

Mountain biking with Alba Mountainbike

Experience our rugged Highland landscape in (relative) comfort with professional and experienced mountain bike guide. A day spent doing a guided mountain bike adventure will be one cherished in your memories forever. Learn more and book online here.

Massage and Wellness

If you’re after some serious rest and relaxation during your time at Woodlands Glencoe, then Woodlands Wellness is well worth exploring! The professional therapists offer everything from reiki and massage to sound baths and facials just a [hot] stone’s throw from your luxury lodge. The best bit? Once your treatment is over, you can meander back to your lodge and submerge yourself in your very own private sunken hot tub. Bliss.

Woodlands Wellness & Wilderness Sauna

Discover a new dimension of wellbeing at the Woodlands Wellness & Wilderness Sauna. Nestled in the ancient grounds of the Woodlands Estate, Woodlands Wellness offers guests the opportunity to enjoy a wide variety of treatments expertly administered by professional therapists. So, if you’re in the mood for a serious dose of rejuvenation and relaxation during your time with us enquire about availability.

Swimming, sauna and jacuzzi

Did you know that all Woodlands guests get to enjoy complimentary access to the Isles of Glencoe Leisure Centre? So why not treat yourself to an hour or two in the sauna, jacuzzi and heated swimming pool. The leisure centre is located just five minutes drive from Woodlands and opens from 7am until 8pm daily.

Fantastic sights and where to find them

We really are based in one of the most beautiful and exciting places in the world – and after having a look at our suggested day trips, i’m sure you will agree!

Mallaig day trip

The drive from Woodlands Glencoe to Mallaig has got to be one of the most beautiful routes in the Highlands with amazing viewpoints and interesting things to see along the way. The 90-minute drive passes beneath the highest mountain in the UK (Ben Nevis), through Jacobite territory (Glenfinnan) before passing some of the most bone-white beaches in the world!

The Jacobite Steam Train

Perhaps better known as ‘The Hogwarts Express’. This steaming classic departs Fort William twice a day during the summer months. If you’re not up for the train ride, look out for the train as it follows the same route to Mallaig as the road!

Saint Mary & Saint Finnan Church

A historic stone church built in 1873 which stands proud up on the hill on Glenfinnan. It’s high vantage point affords it beautiful views down Loch Shiel and across to the majestic mountains that line it’s eastern shores. On a clear day you just might spot Hogwarts…

The Silver Sands of Morar

When you think Caribbean beaches you don’t exactly think of the West Coast of Scotland… but maybe you should! The shoreline between Arisaig and Morar shelters an abundance of beautiful white sand beaches and clear blue water (sadly not up to Caribbean temps). The beaches look out towards the Isles of Eigg and Rùm and on a clear day you can even see Skye!

Western Isles Cruises Wildlife Tour

A one hour voyage aboard the MV Western Isles where you get the opportunity to see a variety of birds, seals, porpoises, basking sharks, whales and dolphins. And the best news? They have a whisky bar on board!

Larachmhor Gardens

We would highly recommend stopping by this secret garden as you pass through Arisaig. Planted by John Augustus Holms in 1927, Larachmhor Gardens is a 28-acre woodland marvel and home to a collection of over 200 species of Rhododendrons, as well as many exotic trees and shrubs from all across the world. Larachmhor is looked after by volunteers from the Royal Botanical Gardens Edinburgh.

The Tea Garden

If you’re lucky enough to catch Mallaig in the sunshine, there’s no better place to soak it up than the flower-filled Tea Garden terrace. Overlooking the bustling harbour, this welcoming spot offers a front-row view of daily life in the village, from fishing boats coming in with the day’s catch to the gentle hum of harbour activity. Open for breakfast, lunch and dinner, the Tea Garden is known for transforming freshly landed local seafood into delicious, memorable dishes. You’ll also find comforting favourites such as homemade soups, sandwiches and toasties.

Oban day trip

Another famous West Coast fishing village with – you guessed it – amazing options for fresh fish and chips! Oban derives from An t-Òban, meaning “The Little Bay” and is also known as the “Gateway to the Western Isles” as it has a bustling ferry port with ferries leaving regularly to Mull and the Outer Hebrides. Before you hop on the ferry, we highly recommend a caffeine refuel at Himba Coffee Shop! Here are some more top picks for a magical trip to Oban.

Castle Stalker

A stunning example of a really beautiful Scottish castle. Castle Stalker floats majestically on it’s own island in Loch Linnhe. Originally built in 1320, the Castle is a must see on any trip to the Highlands! You can stop off at the Castle Stalker viewpoint to take in the vista!

McCaig’s Tower

Perched high above Oban Bay you will find McCaig’s tower. Built in 1897 by local banker John Stuart McCaig, the landmark is the perfect place for an after lunch walk – where you can enjoy views down to Oban town and out towards the Atlantic ocean.

The Seafood Shack

Think fresh lobster sandwiches and seafood platters brimming with oysters, langoustines and cockles – Perhaps the reason for Obans title ‘Seafood Capital of Scotland’. Enjoy some of the very best Scottish food in a casual setting.

Ganavan Sands

A beautiful white sand beach and idyllic viewing platform from which to watch the CalMac ferries go by. Maybe a great place to sit with your fish and chips… Lovely dunes to wander between and watch the sunset over the Isle of Mull.

The Oban Distillery

Oban Distillery boasts one of Scotland’s finest malts – and has been making it almost longer than anyone else – since 1794! Oban itself has been built around the distillery, a sure sign of the ages and the Whisky is largely unchanged since the 18^th century. The Whisky here is a fine example of Single Malt from the West Coast. Bold, Peaty & Punchy. Not for softies, although they have a range of Whiskies for everyone and the Distillery is very welcoming, with a well laid out bar upstairs, the beginning point for tours and most likely point you’ll find yourself by the end of your visit.

Achnalarig Stables

What better way to see the glorious Argyll countryside than on horseback?

The team at Achnalarig offer treks for all different ages and abilities through the most stunning landscape. Horses/ponies are matched to your ability and treks last from half and hour up to two hours. The team also offer lessons in the arena if you are looking to sharpen your skills.

Fort William day trip

Fort William is the closest main hub to Woodlands Glencoe, but it’s not simply a place to stock up at one of the many supermarkets, there’s also lots to discover! From the new bike park and independent cinema (delicious restaurant too) to wildlife cruises and climbing the highest mountain in the UK! There’s something for everyone. Here’s some of our favourite things to do in Fort William.

Nevis Range Gondola Ride

Enjoy a gondola ride up Aonach Mòr mountain (Britain’s third highest mountain!) boasting spectacular views across Fort William and beyond. In winter this is a great place to go ski-ing! You can check the mountain report here . In the summer, Nevis Range is home to the UCI Mountain Bike World Cup and riders can be seen rapidly descending the gnarly trails at almost unfathomable speed – not to be missed!

Steall Falls

Make the steady climb into the Nevis gorge to find a cascading waterfall nestled amongst giants. The waterfall is a single drop of 120 metres which places it amongst the highest of falls in Scotland. There is a fun wire bridge that you can cross – if you’re feeling brave – and you will find yourself at the base of the waterfall. (2 hours)

The Highland Cinema

The Highland Cinema is not only a fantastic place to watch a movie, it also offers delicious wood fired pizzas, big bowls of freshly tossed salads and an excellent cocktail list! Movies are shown all day every day and you can check what movies are on here.

The Highland Soap Company

Not only can you drop into the Highland Soap Company to bag yourself some delicious smelling handmade soaps, lotions and potions at the shop, you can also enjoy a really great lunch and even partake in one of their excellent soap making workshops.

The Wildcat Cafe

Situated right on the cobbled high street, you’ll find Fort William’s one and only vegan cafe! Even if you’re not vegan, we highly recommend popping into the Wildcat Cafe for excellent fair trade coffee, delicious cakes, soups and light lunches. The food and service here is second to none!

The Highland Liquor Company

If you’re a wine connoisseur or you enjoy a good tipple, then you really have to visit the Highland Liquor Company. This shop is packed to the brim with incredible local gins, rums, whiskies, beers and ciders. They also boast a really great wine selection. The staff are well informed and if you’re lucky, you might even visit during one of their tasting sessions!

Things to do in Glencoe