Our top picks for autumn adventures in Glencoe
Like it or loathe it, for most of us the stroke of midnight on the 1st of September marks the unofficial start of autumn. This may sound a bit defeatist, like we’re just giving up on the final three weeks of summer (the 23rd is the official first day of autumn), but no wonder when you consider how good the Woodlands Estate looks in that gorgeous autumn light!
As the leaves begin to turn, the area is completely transformed into a world of russets, reds and golds. Added to that, there’s still warmth in the autumn sunshine, the midges disappear along with the summer crowds and the longer nights allow for the first glimpses of the northern lights.
Autumn is also the season where we get to witness some seriously impressive wildlife events taking place. Take a wander around the estate at dusk and listen out for the roar of stags as they lock horns to compete for a mate. Birdwatchers are also in for a treat as thousands of migrating birds can be spotted as they head south to escape the harsh winters of the north.
If all of the above doesn’t have you hankering for a trip to Woodlands, here’s some of our favourite autumnal advisories!
Hire an e-bike
There’s no better way to drink in the changing colours of autumn than by taking an e-bike ride through some of the area’s most dramatic scenery. Did you know that the National Cycle Route 78 (or more romantically – the Caledonia Way), wiggles its way right passed the Woodlands Estate, meaning you can cycle directly from your luxury lodge to the bustling town of Oban (30 miles away).
Much of the track is built along the old Ballachulish to Oban railway line so the entire route is level and mostly off-road. Along the way, you’ll pass mirror-like lochs, ancient forests, medieval castles and plenty of great places to stop off, take in the view and enjoy something to eat.
As part of the Woodlands Activity Centre, we hire out state-of-the-art e-bikes and equipment throughout the year, so you can hop on and safely take in some of Scotland’s most spectacular scenery, without even breaking a sweat!
Take a cruise
Autumn is a season where the wonderful world of wildlife is a true hive of activity, and we reckon one of the best ways to sit back and take in all the action is on a boat trip with Cruise Loch Linnhe. Boat trippers will get to witness hundreds of migrating birds preparing to head south as well as seals hauling themselves onto Seal Island in preparation for giving birth to their pups.
Enjoy an autumn picnic
The Glencoe area is a picnic lover’s paradise! In fact, it could be argued that autumn is the ultimate season to enjoy a brisk walk followed by an alfresco lunch. From romantic loch-side lunches to mountaintop munches, there’s an autumn picnic spot out there with your name on it. You just have to find it.
We HIGHLY recommend heading to local bakery, Stiff Peaks, and stocking up on deeeeeelicious homemade sausage rolls, cullin skink soup and cheese scones. Perfect autumn eating.
Go back in time
Uncover a long-lost way of life inside the cosy confines of Glencoe Nature Reserve’s reconstruction of a 300-year-old turf and creel house.
Enjoy the sight, sound and scent of the woodsmoke rising from this gorgeous wee house. When first lit, it gets so smoky you can only spend moments in the house before needing to leave for a breath of fresh air, but after a few hours it smoulders away nicely. The beautiful aroma lingers for days.
You can visit from 10am to 4pm and go for a free guided tour at 2pm.
Or simply relax
Autumn days are a true celebration of light and colour, both of which are in very short supply up in these parts during the long winter months. That’s why our final autumn recommendation is to do nothing but relax and enjoy the sights and sounds of autumn and there’s nowhere better to do that than at RiverBeds or SeaBeds Luxury Lodges. Light the firepit and toast marshmallows, submerge in the hot tub and enjoy the view or simply relax and watch the changing colours from the warmth of your lodge.
