Glencoe Three Sisters

The Three Sisters in Glencoe

The road-facing peaks of Aonach Dubh, Beinn Fhada and Gearr Aonach are the mountains that are together known as the Three Sisters of Glencoe, also known as Bidean Nam Bian.

Glencoe is world-renowned to be one of the most beautiful places in Scotland, and visiting the Glencoe Three Sisters is a great way to experience the spectacular scenery of the Scottish Highlands. This incredible green valley is filled with wonderful walks and natural beauty that is waiting to be explored.

Finding the Three Sisters in Glencoe

Where is it: The Three Sisters otherwise known as Bidean nam Bian can be found in the Glen Coe valley off the A82 road heading to the village of Glencoe, which lies in the Scottish Highlands, northwest of Glasgow and Stirling. 

How to get there: Enter ‘Three Sisters Car Park’ Glencoe into your Google Maps or GPS and you’ll get to your desired destination. (A82, Ballachulish PH49 4HX)

The Scenic Route on your way to the Three Sisters

En route to the Three Sisters there are various photo opportunities and other sights to see along the A82 and throughout Glencoe. You’ll find an abundance of rolling hills and waterfalls, and be rewarded with stunning scenic vistas showcasing the incredible landscape of the Scottish Highlands.

If you are on your way to Glencoe, you’ll find Scotland’s most photographed mountain, Buachaille Etive Mòr, known for its iconic shape and prominence in the Glencoe skyline. We don’t think you’ll miss it but pop it into your maps and it’ll bring you to the closest point to admire its peak and snap a quick photo. Plus, if you want to extend your road trip, you should take a trip down the Glen Etive Road which affords 12 miles of incredible scenery and the recognisable landscape that played its part in James Bond’s Skyfall film.

Find out more about the scenic road trip through the Glencoe Valley.

Three Sisters Glencoe Walk

Bidean Nam Bian is the highest mountain in Argyll county and collectively covers the range of mountains that lie south of Glencoe. As previously mentioned, the dramatic ridges that dominate the skyline are known as the Three Sisters. Although these peaks are the known focal point, the highest summits are hidden in the depths of the mountain range.

The range is filled with great walks, however a lot of the terrain is known to be steep and complex. You can find well worn paths including the route up the Stob Coire Nan Lochan and the Stob Coire Sgreamhach munro. Although these routes are known to keen walkers, it’s important to mention that the terrain is very rocky. 

For an easier walk in the Bidean Nam Bian range, visit the rocky hanging valley which lies between the first two ‘sisters’ Coire Gabhail, commonly known as the Lost or Hidden Valley. Coire Gabhail can be translated to Glen of Capture, and was the valley used by Scotland’s largest clan, Clan Macdonald, to hide their livestock. Although this is still challenging with rocky patches and river crossings, you’ll be rewarded with incredible views across the valley and around Glencoe. Make sure you are ready for the fickle Scottish weather when planning your hike (our guide to What to wear in Scotland for every season should help)

The walks around the Three Sisters and Bidean Nam Bian not only offer spectacular scenery but also the chance to find out more about the rich Scottish culture and history that lies in the valleys of Glencoe. Find out more about exploring Bidean nam Bian on foot and the other munros to trek around Glencoe.

Staying in Glencoe

Exploring Glencoe and the Three Sisters offers the experience to discover some of Scotland’s best landscapes. Whether you visit in the height of summer or in the winter when the valley is dusted with snow, the scenery is simply hard to beat.

Following a challenging, yet rewarding day of hiking around Bidean Nam Bian, you can retreat to our newly updated Glencoe Inn which offers the perfect Highland base and a peaceful night’s rest for all who visit and explore the wonderful Glencoe surroundings.

With adventure on our doorstep, cosy and welcoming destinations scattered across Scotland find out why you should choose Crerar Hotels here.