Glencoe - A Photographers Paradise
People from all over the world come to visit areas like Glencoe for many reasons. For centuries, majestic mountains, tumbling waterfalls, romantic views, and stories of massacres and mayhem from the past have drawn people to the area. From a photographer’s perspective, the unique landscapes, unlike any other, provide the perfect backdrop for storytelling through photographs.
In any season, Glencoe can be captured in exceptional detail. Many of the stunning locations in and around Glencoe have become synonymous not only with the area itself but also with Scotland entirely. Weather can be unpredictable and harsh, which only adds to the drama. Meaning that capturing something really memorable here is like a trophy.
I’m Brian, a local to Glencoe and a photography enthusiast. Here, I am sharing with you my top places to visit for stunning photography opportunities, whether it be to capture eye-watering landscapes or perfect portrait shots for your social media.
River Etive and Corbett, Beinn Mhic Chasaig at the head of Glen Etive. Late Autumn.
Rannoch Moor
The UK’s largest area of peatland bog, with water coming from Lochan na h-Achlaise, Lochan na Stainge and Loch Ba.
This particular scene is especially magnificent captured during the year's colder months. The sun warming the frosty loch as you point your camera towards the distant peaks of Clach Leathad and Munro, Meall a’ Bhùiridh. You can easily access this area via car parking available off the A82.
Location - https://maps.app.goo.gl/LVbcf19EAyMcoEbM8
Glen Etive
Head down Glen Etive by the side of the famous Buachaille and revel in the wonder of spectacular mountain views. The singletrack road meanders by the side of the River Etive as you make your way down to Loch Etive. Passing by famous spots, such as where James Bond gazed upon the glen in Skyfall. A worthy adventure for the optimistic photographer.
Skyfall Scene - https://maps.app.goo.gl/f1yB6Ddma37LFPXT7
Buachaille Etive Mòr
Grand in name and stature, locally called “The Buachaille”—The Bookle—this majestic mountain is one of Scotland’s most well-known and much-loved. Seemingly jutting out from the surrounding flat expanse of the Rannoch Moor, it is a photographer's dream.
Location - https://maps.app.goo.gl/6ryCZu6pKZhfXzCWA
Loch Achtriochtan
Glencoe is famous for many things, including its history and massacre. On social media, everyone wants to capture the special wee white house, seen below the Buachaille. However, the area has no parking, and those seeking a spectacular shot might be better off visiting Loch Achrtiochtan. With parking and an easier area to walk around, this is a no-brainer. There’s also a wee white house there, too!
As someone living local to Glencoe, my biggest advice to anyone looking to capture spectacular imagery is to go early or late. There are a number of reasons why you should do this. There are no crowds at 7 a.m. or 9 p.m., and that’s when the sunrise and sunset cast all sorts of magic on the Glen. Make sure to wear clothes for the fickle Scottish weather (if not sure, read our guide on What to wear in Scotland throughout the seasons).
Location - https://maps.app.goo.gl/cMih9CP1UHPQ7riv8
BONUS TIP - Glencoe Lochan
The most accessible place anywhere in the area with a large amount of parking and well-marked way routes. None of the walks are challenging, though slightly more than others. The main route you should take is the simple and flat circular of the lochan itself. There are many places to photograph along it’s 1 mile route and each one you’ll be rushing home to look back at your photographs to edit and post on your favourite sharing platforms.
Location - https://maps.app.goo.gl/rSpYAPJUxdntdR15A
With some of these special areas to visit, there are some key things to remember. In Scotland, we follow the SOAC—Scotland Outdoor Access Code. This means that although we have a right to roam, we have a responsibility to care for the areas we wander. Take your litter home and always leave no trace.
Photography doesn’t always require a specialist kit. It’s about being in the right place at the right time. Any camera can capture magnificent sunsets and mountain landscapes. It’s the camera that you have with you that counts.
Words and Photography by Brian Sharp
