The Lost Valley Walk in Glencoe

One of the most breathtaking and dreamlike locations in Scotland is Glencoe. The deep valley and imposing mountains of Glencoe were formed aeons ago by icy glaciers and volcanic eruptions. The scenery is striking all round and there are numerous walks in the area.

While staying at the Loch Tay Highland Lodges (during our Scottish Highlands' trip), Glencoe was one of the places we visited. We were on the lookout for an intermediate-level walking adventure in the area and after much deliberation we picked the Lost Valley Walk. And it turned out to be a great choice because the Lost Valley is such an awe-inspiring place! We loved it.

The Lost Valley Walk

The walk to the Lost Valley begins from the Three Sisters Car Park. The car park is mostly busy and packed full. Most people stop here for pictures of the Three Sisters, spend some time and leave. 

If the Three Sisters Car Park is full, you can park at the Hidden Valley Car Park which is just a short distance away.

Once you have taken in the stunning views of the Three Sisters across the glen and heard the bagpiper (there is one on most days near the car park), follow the path downhill from the car park.

Once you reach the old track in the glen, turn left and continue along the track and then follow the path on the right. You will arrive at a metal staircase which leads down to River Coe.

Descend down the stairs and then cross the bridge across the river.

After this point, the trail becomes rocky. So, take great care as you continue ahead.

On the other side of the bridge, there is a rock face with a metal handrail to help you climb up the rocks, and your ascent to the Lost Valley begins.

Continue on the path, aiming towards the centre of the two peaks with the river on your left side. The path is varied; some sections are fairly easy while some areas have a stony stairway. There is some scrambling involved as well. 

The scenery is stunning and we stopped at many places to take in the beauty of nature.

As we continued along the path, we arrived at a point where we had to cross the river to continue our walk to the Lost Valley. There were stepping stones to make the crossing.

When we visited, the water level in the river was low and the crossing was easy. If you are visiting after heavy rains, please take care while crossing the river and if the water level is too deep, it is better to not attempt the crossing.

Once you have crossed the river, turn right and continue on the path.

A little ahead, you will come across a rocky section that you will need to scramble up to continue to the Lost Valley.

Be careful on this section as there is a steep drop on the right and some of the rocky surfaces are almost smooth due to the fact that innumerable hikers have descended it on their bottoms leaving it well-polished and slippery.

After crossing this section, the rest of the path is fairly easy with some sections with stone steps.

Continue along the path and you will arrive at the top of the route that opens up onto the historic landslip's shoulder, where there are stunning views of the Lost Valley (also known as Coire Gabhail) and a rocky slope that leads to the flat valley floor.

As we made our way to the valley floor, we were awed by the beauty of nature. We stood on the valley floor, dwarfed by high mountains on either side and enjoyed the tranquility and the serenity of the place.

The valley was calm and peaceful and it was difficult to imagine that the MacDonalds of Glencoe, who managed to escape the 1692 massacre, used the Lost Valley as a livestock hiding place.

We spent some time in the valley and then started our return journey, retracing our steps to get back to the car park.

It took us around 4 hours to complete the walk. We walked at a leisurely pace, stopping every now and then for photography and for taking in the scenery etc. We completely enjoyed it. It was an incredible experience! And we highly recommend it.

The hike is tough in some sections with steep climbs, slippery & rocky terrain and some mild scrambling/clambering involved. But the magical landscape is worth the effort.

Do check the weather before you head for this hike. Also, dress appropriately, choose a pair of sturdy boots (highly essential) and carry some water and snacks. And don't forget your camera gear.