Glen Coe and the Wild Highlands

Ah, the Highlands.  When one thinks of Scotland, this is one of the first places that come to mind.  The wild peaks of Glen Coe, the mysterious Loch Ness, and the fabled Loch Lomond all add their favors to this colorful land that is the Highlands.

 As you travel out of the Trossachs, you will come rather suddenly on the valley known far and wide as Glen Coe.  Little streams and small waterfalls line the roadway.  Rugged peaks soar heavenward on every side.  Whether raining or not, give the sun half a chance and the mysterious romance of Glen Coe will quickly capture your heart.

If you have time, visit the Glen Coe Visitor Center at the northern end of the glen.  Here, you will get a taste of Glen Coe’s history and the tragic event that took place there at the end of the 17^th century that made Glen Coe both famous and infamous.

Turning north from Glen Coe, you will enter the Great Glen which runs nearly 100 miles from Fort William in the south to Inverness in the north.  This glen is home to two of Scotland’s largest lochs, the most famous being Loch Ness.  Home of the legendary Loch Ness monster, Loch Ness is a popular spot for tourists of all nationalities.  However, thanks to its great size, there is always a quiet place for those who just want to stand and enjoy the view.

One excellent place to visit if you want a castle and famous loch in the same spot is Urquhart Castle.  Nestled on the banks of Loch Ness, Urquhart Castle is now in ruins, but enough still stands to allow for some interesting exploration and an unobstructed view of Loch Ness from its one remaining tower.  But before you go down to the castle, stop in at the visitor center and watch the living history video about the castle.  The history is interesting and a special surprise at the end makes it well worth the time.

Like the Trossachs, the Highlands are well worth taking time to explore.  There is so much to see and do.  No matter what your interests are you’ll probably find it a challenge to do it all.  But take time and enjoy the Highlands.  I do every time I visit.

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