The Lost Valley (Coire Gabhail)

The Lost Valley — Coire Gabhail in Gaelic — is Glen Coe's most popular walk, and for good reason. This hidden hanging valley sits concealed between two of the Three Sisters (Beinn Fhada and Gearr Aonach), invisible from the road below.

The path climbs steeply from the roadside car park through beautiful birch woodland, crosses the River Coe on stepping stones, then ascends through a dramatic boulder field before the valley suddenly reveals itself — a flat, secret meadow surrounded by towering cliffs.

This is where the MacDonalds of Glencoe reportedly hid their cattle from raiding parties. The acoustics of the valley are remarkable — you can hear nothing of the road below. It feels genuinely hidden, even today.

The scramble through the boulder field requires some care, and the stepping stones can be tricky after rain, but it's achievable for anyone with reasonable fitness and sturdy footwear.